Neal Petersen has completed two amazing journeys in his life: a single-handed yacht race around the world, 27,000 miles, nine months at sea, alone, and in a yacht he designed and built himself. And an even more arduous and eventful trip of overcoming racial prejudice during the Apartheid era in South Africa, poverty, and a childhood physical disability, just to make it to the start line! While sharing his riveting life story - and philosophy, Neal's personal messages and unique delivery will open the mind, with new hope and a determination to break down the barriers, real or perceived, that now exist and to take adversity head on and demonstrate that with determination and hard work you can achieve your goals. An award winning author, adventurer and global investor, Petersen shares real life examples of how he overcame insurmountable barriers by always turning “perceived” disadvantages into advantages—then into opportunities. In his captivating and empowering “No Barriers – Only Solutions” keynote, Neal demonstrates how success is realized—through innovation, balancing risk against return and being flexible enough to adapt to constant shifting winds. Neal Petersen has challenged thousands to prevail against their own formidable barriers and setbacks and to turn them into treasures. Neal has “wowed” international audiences with his story and how he related it to their challenges, which typically ends with standing ovations and rave reviews. Neal understands different cultures having lived in many parts of the world; he is well traveled and has homes in the USA, Dominican Republic and South Africa. In these challenging times of uncertainly, fear and insecurity rise, many feel like solo sailors, adrift, grasping for survival. Neal lays out the importance of a clearly communicated vision and direction, followed by detailed planning, preparation, passion and execution using his personal story.
