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Speaker

Robin Horsfall

Former SAS Soldier | Writer | Veterans Campaigner | Chairman of London Karate Limited

Robin Horsfall is a former SAS soldier, renowned for his role in the Iranian Embassy Siege of 1980, where he helped rescue 19 hostages. His extraordinary journey spans elite military service, martial arts, medical missions, and advocacy for veterans’ rights. As a motivational keynote speaker, Robin captivates audiences with his powerful insights on leadership, overcoming adversity, and resilience.

Robin Horsfall as a speaker

Speaker profile

Who is Robin?

Robin Horsfall life is a testament to resilience, courage, and relentless determination. Born in Farnham, Surrey, Robin’s early years were marked by challenges, including a difficult home life that led him to leave school at fifteen and enlist as a boy soldier in the British Army. Despite facing bullying and isolation, he persevered, becoming a full member of the Parachute Regiment by the age of seventeen. He went on to serve three tours in Northern Ireland, gaining firsthand experience in high-pressure environments.

In 1978, Robin volunteered for the elite Special Air Service (SAS) and passed selection on his second attempt. He qualified as both a paramedic and sniper, playing a pivotal role in high-risk operations. One of the defining moments of his career came in 1980 during the Iranian Embassy Siege in London, where he was part of the SAS counter-terrorism team that stormed the embassy, saving the lives of 19 hostages. His firsthand account of this historic event is one of the highlights of his speaking engagements.

Beyond his military career, Robin continued to push boundaries. In the early 1990s, he founded one of the largest independent children’s karate schools in Europe, teaching thousands of students over two decades. Despite suffering a severe neck injury, he pursued higher education, graduating from Surrey University at the age of 59. His work has extended to medical missions worldwide, including building a medical center in the Guyana jungle.

Robin Horsfall is also a prominent veterans’ rights campaigner, playing a crucial role in the Northern Ireland Legacy Bill to support former servicemen. He has survived bladder cancer, written multiple books-including the bestselling autobiography "Fighting Scared"-and regularly shares his insights through his Substack blog.

As a keynote speaker, Robin delivers compelling, high-energy talks that resonate with audiences from corporate teams to military professionals. His presentations blend real-life experiences, humor, and practical leadership lessons, leaving attendees inspired and equipped with tools to navigate challenges in their own lives.

Talks

Topics and presentations

01

Soldiering

02

Bullying

03

PTSD

04

Adjusting to Change

05

Personal Development

06

Overcoming Adversity

07

Self-reliance

08

Teaching Martial Arts

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