Speaker fees:
Topics:
Moving from South Africa to England aged 20, Jaco van Gass joined the elite Parachute Regiment in the British Armed Forces.
During his second tour of Afghanistan in 2009, Jaco was hit by an RPG (Rocket-Propelled Grenade), His injuries included the loss of his left arm at the elbow, a collapsed lung, punctured internal organs, shrapnel wounds, and multiple fractures. He underwent 11 surgeries and intense rehabilitation. Incredibly, he survived.
Despite the end of his military career and the physical and mental trauma, Jaco refused to let his injuries define him. He went on to become a first-class downhill skier, marathon runner, and a member of the record-breaking team of wounded soldiers who trekked unsupported to the North Pole (alongside Prince Harry). He also climbed Mt. Denali in Alaska.
Jaco later joined the GB Para-Cycling Team, where he has gone onto become an 11-time World Champion.
Fulfilling a lifelong dream, Jaco competed at Tokyo 2020 Games winning two Gold medals, one Bronze medal and setting three World Records. Jaco returned to the Olympics for Paris 2024, where he defended his titles to win a further two Gold medals and broke two of his own World Records.
Jaco is now a sought-after motivational speaker, inspiring businesses, charities, and organisations around the world. He shares the highs and lows of his extraordinary journey, helping others to embrace change, overcome adversity, and achieve their goals.
Jaco van Gass’ visit to Abbey Gate College on Remembrance Day was one of the best experiences of my 28 years of teaching. A truly remarkable young man whose personal story was told with sensitivity and a real awareness of his audience. He wowed our Junior 5 and 6 pupils with his heroic tales and inspired our Sixth Formers with untold courage of how he overcame adversity of the worst kind. Inspirational, humble and passionate about life, it was a real pleasure to have met Jaco. His story will be remembered by all who heard him speak for a very long time.
Not only is Jaco one of the most delightful, humble and effortlessly charming individuals you will meet but he has an extraordinary life story that he is (unusually for someone in his position) able to articulate publicly with honesty, humour and skill that is profoundly moving. I would recommend him for almost any public speaking engagement but especially as a motivational speaker.
