Ben Saunders is a distinguished English polar explorer, endurance athlete, and motivational speaker, renowned for his remarkable achievements in polar exploration. His career took a significant leap in 2004 when he skied solo to the North Pole, marking him as one of the youngest individuals to accomplish this feat. Since then, he has skied over 3,700 miles on polar expeditions, including leading the first return journey to the South Pole on foot via the historic routes of Shackleton and Scott from 2013 to 2014. This expedition, known as the Scott Expedition, set the record for the longest human-powered polar journey in history at 2,888 km.
In addition to his record-breaking journeys, Saunders has made substantial contributions to the exploration community. He is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and has served as an ambassador for various organizations, including the Prince’s Trust and British Exploring. His leadership and dedication to adventure education have earned him an Honorary Fellowship from the University of Northampton, recognizing his influence in inspiring future generations of explorers.
As a sought-after keynote speaker, Saunders shares his insights on resilience, teamwork, and leadership with audiences worldwide. His TED Talks have garnered millions of views, showcasing his ability to connect with people through storytelling. He has also authored several publications, contributing to the discourse on exploration and human endeavor.
Today, Ben Saunders continues to push the boundaries of exploration while advocating for climate awareness. His expeditions not only highlight the challenges of polar environments but also serve as a platform for raising awareness about the impacts of climate change, making him a pivotal figure in both adventure and environmental advocacy.