Frederick Afrifa

International sprinter and Professional Athlete

Speaker fees:

In-person: £1k-£3k
Virtual: £1k-£3k

Topics:

Adversity & Resilience
2
Sport
2
Student Inspiration
Frederick Afrifa – The Power of Perseverance: Turning Setbacks into Comebacks
From a small South London flat to the world of professional athletics, delivery driving, and becoming a recognised TV personality, Frederick Afrifa’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and unshakable self-belief.
Born in Italy, Frederick moved to the UK at the age of 12, speaking little to no English and sharing a single room with his family of four. Despite these early challenges, he rose to represent Italy’s national athletics team, winning two gold medals. But in 2020, his athletics contract was unexpectedly cut, forcing him to take a job as a delivery driver. Rather than seeing this as the end of his ambitions, he used it as fuel to reinvent himself—stepping into the world of motivational speaking in 2021.
Just four years later, Frederick’s determination led him to the BBC’s The Apprentice (2025), showcasing his entrepreneurial vision and ability to thrive under pressure. Now a sought-after speaker, he shares the lessons behind his incredible transformation, inspiring audiences to turn adversity into opportunity.
Frederick’s talks and workshops are raw, thought-provoking, and deeply motivational. Living by his personal motto, “Keep moving forward,” he teaches powerful strategies on:
  • Overcoming obstacles – How to build resilience and bounce back stronger
  • Goal setting & motivation – Achieving success despite setbacks
  • The mindset shift – Turning challenges into stepping stones for growth
With years of experience in elite sports, education, and business, Frederick has the unique ability to connect with students, professionals, and corporate teams alike. Whether you’re looking to inspire your workforce or empower the next generation, Frederick Afrifa is the speaker to help you reach new heights.

Book Frederick Afrifa

Featured topics include

Inspiring students of all ages through the struggles of my pursuit to professional contract. After a 7 year wait, I have won 2 national titles and built the life of my dreams. This came as a result of goal setting, delayed gratification & having a me vs me mentality.

Helping teachers and education professionals believe in their greatness. Having spoken in over 700 schools around the country, I have a deep understanding on how young people think & things they need to excel. My talk is a reminder to teachers to zoom out & understand that they have the keys to unlock the next generation.

What people say

I simply cannot recommend Fred too highly. He came with a fantastic endorsement and was even better than promised!! All my staff loved him and the sessions and their only question was when he could come back!!!”

Matt Gee / CEO – Carradele Futures

A life changing experience for some of our students.”

Claire Barr / Student Development Manager – Plumpton College

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