The Speakers
Our diverse line-up of speakers is sure to ignite your passion and inspire your purpose. Each speaker has been chosen to reflect our theme and remind us of the power of Rotary.
James Benson-King: The Viking BikerGet ready to be inspired by James Benson-King, a true testament to the power of grit and determination. From overcoming a childhood heart condition to thriving in high-intensity sports like rugby and American football, James has embraced every challenge head-on. His career in Investment Banking Operations at JP Morgan sharpened his resilience, but it was his extraordinary cycling journey from Alaska to Argentina that truly defined his fearless spirit. Now a captivating speaker and social media motivator, James will share his remarkable story of perseverance, mental resilience, and embracing challenges—perfectly embodying this year’s conference theme, Passion with Purpose!
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Dave McIvor: Assistance Dog TrainerJoin us to hear from Dave McIvor, a true master in the art and science of dog training with over 40 years of experience. From training elite police dogs to transforming lives through his work at Helpful Hounds, Dave’s passion for positive, reward-based methods creates happy, well-balanced dogs and meaningful partnerships with families. His inspiring journey, rooted in expertise and purpose, is a perfect example of turning passion into impact—don’t miss this compelling session!
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Rev. Debbie Hodge: Modern SlaveryDon’t miss the inspiring Rev. Debbie Hodge, whose 20+ years in Rotary have been marked by transformative leadership and unforgettable experiences. From spearheading global initiatives to sharing personal stories of service, Debbie captures the heart of Rotary’s mission to create lasting change, one person or community at a time. Her powerful insights and unwavering dedication to peace and connection perfectly embody this year’s theme, Passion with Purpose—a session you simply can’t afford to miss!
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James Christian: Cancer ResearcherBe inspired by James Christian, a groundbreaking researcher from the University of Southampton, who is at the forefront of cancer immunotherapy and vaccine development. James’s work reveals how harnessing the immune system can not only combat cancer but also prevent it, with transformative results like the 90% reduction in cervical cancer cases through HPV vaccines. His passion for using science to create life-saving advancements perfectly aligns with the conference theme, Passion with Purpose—don’t miss this enlightening and hope-filled session!
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Lisa Hunter, BEM: Rotary TrailblazerDon’t miss Lisa Hunter, a trailblazing Rotary leader whose innovative vision is redefining what it means to be a Rotarian. As the founder of the dynamic and inclusive Rotary Club of Maidenhead Bridge, Lisa has created a club that breaks barriers and inspires action through hands-on projects and modern approaches. Her passion for connecting communities and driving impactful change perfectly embodies the conference theme, Passion with Purpose—join her session to see how bold ideas can shape the future of Rotary!
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Anthony Evans: School HeadmasterJoin Anthony Evans, the inspiring Headteacher of St. Michael’s CE Primary School, as he shares his vision for holistic education that nurtures academic excellence, emotional growth, and spiritual character. Guided by the motto “Let your light shine,” Anthony has created a school community built on courage, peace, and respect, where every child thrives in a supportive environment. His dedication to empowering individuals perfectly reflects the conference theme, Passion with Purpose—don’t miss this opportunity to learn from his transformative leadership!
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Ali Warburton: Saving Street DogsDon’t miss Ali Warburton, a tireless advocate for animal welfare who is transforming the lives of Sri Lanka’s five million street dogs. Through her work with Lucas Helps Dogs, Ali tackles challenges like overpopulation, disease, and abuse with sustainable solutions such as the CNVR program and life-saving rabies vaccinations. Her passion-driven mission, rooted in compassion and action, perfectly reflects the conference theme, Passion with Purpose—prepare to be inspired by her journey of creating hope and lasting change!
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Rob Hygate: Founder eWATER ServicesJoin Rob, a visionary technologist and founder of eWATER, as he shares how cutting-edge innovations are transforming water systems in developing countries. From IoT monitoring to blockchain payment solutions, Rob’s groundbreaking work ensures sustainable, cost-effective access to clean water where it’s needed most. With a rich background in technology and a passion for sustainability, Rob’s story embodies the conference theme, Passion with Purpose—don’t miss this opportunity to see how bold ideas are changing the world!
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Stuart Pool: Ethical Gem MinerDon’t miss the chance to hear from Stuart Pool, a pioneer in ethical gemstone sourcing and a champion of fair trade principles. As the driving force behind Nineteen48 and Rubyfair, Stuart’s groundbreaking “mine-to-market” approach transforms the gemstone industry while uplifting communities in
Sri Lanka and Tanzania. His inspiring story of passion with purpose showcases how sustainable business practices can create lasting change—making Stuart a must-see speaker at this year’s conference! |
Nicky Alberry & Sarah Vile: Advocating for survivors of domestic abuse
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Join Nicky Alberry and Sarah Vile, from Swindon and Swanage & Purbeck Rotary Clubs respectively, who both have established careers in advocating for, and supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Learn about Rotary GB&I's Domestic Abuse and Violence Against the Person Team which believes passionately in the importance of raising awareness of the scale and prevalence of domestic abuse. The Group are building a resource/ information bank for Clubs to use; building stakeholder relationships; sharing work that Clubs are already doing; supporting key campaigns and have lots of other plans for the coming months.
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Nicky Alberry
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Sarah Vile
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The Programme
Get ready for a weekend like no other! The Rotary District 1110 Conference 2025 programme is packed with dynamic speakers, and exciting entertainment that will inspire, energise, and connect you. From thought-provoking sessions to lively evening celebrations, there’s something for everyone.
Dive into the details below (subject to change) and start planning your perfect conference experience—this is your chance to ignite your passion with purpose!
Dive into the details below (subject to change) and start planning your perfect conference experience—this is your chance to ignite your passion with purpose!
Friday 10th October
3.00pm Hotel Check-in & Conference Registration Desk opens
7.00pm Bar open for pre-dinner drinks
7.30pm 2 course buffet served Lydiard Room (no seating plan)
9.00pm – 11.00pm Evening Entertainment
Saturday 11th October
9.30am Conference Session
11.30am Coffee Break
11.45am Conference Session
12.30am Lunch
Afternoon Free time to explore
7.00pm Drinks Reception in Foyer & Bar Open
7.30pm Gala Dinner Served (seating plan)
9.00pm – 11.30pm Entertainment by A Million Dreams
Sunday 12th October
10.00am Conference Session
11.30am Coffee Break
11.45am Conference Session
1.00pm Carvery Lunch (if pre-ordered & paid)
3.00pm Hotel Check-in & Conference Registration Desk opens
7.00pm Bar open for pre-dinner drinks
7.30pm 2 course buffet served Lydiard Room (no seating plan)
9.00pm – 11.00pm Evening Entertainment
Saturday 11th October
9.30am Conference Session
11.30am Coffee Break
11.45am Conference Session
12.30am Lunch
Afternoon Free time to explore
7.00pm Drinks Reception in Foyer & Bar Open
7.30pm Gala Dinner Served (seating plan)
9.00pm – 11.30pm Entertainment by A Million Dreams
Sunday 12th October
10.00am Conference Session
11.30am Coffee Break
11.45am Conference Session
1.00pm Carvery Lunch (if pre-ordered & paid)