Chris Bertish

With a mantra of 'Dream it. See it. Believe it. Achieve it' Chris has redefined his view of success. By following this mantra, he has achieved incredible results in multiple sports and has become a respected Author, Filmmaker, and Businessman.

Chris first made headlines in 2010 when he won the California, Mavericks Big Wave Invitational, one of the world's biggest surfing competitions. Born in Kenilworth, Cape Town, Chris found a way to travel across the world and outperform professional athletes, forever changing the face of big-wave surfing.

In March 2017, Chris completed his most daring challenge yet and redefined the concept of Extreme Adventure by becoming the first person to singlehandedly cross the Atlantic Ocean on a Stand Up Paddleboard. This endeavor took over 93 days as Chris paddled solo and unassisted, from Morocco, Africa to Antigua in the Caribbean. Upon its completion, Chris accomplished something many perceived to be impossible and showed the world that anyone has the power to overcome any challenge. As incredible as this story already is, what's perhaps even more inspirational is not Chris's actions, but his reasons for doing it. Through this adventure, Chris supported the charities the Lunchbox Fund and Operation Smile and helped 1000 children with cleft palates receive the life-changing surgery they needed for a better future.

Chris continues to use his amazing adventures to support charities focused on humanitarian, educational, sustainability, and environmental causes. As an ambassador for the World View Climate Change Parks, Operation Smile, 2Oceans Aquarium, and Conservation International, Chris supports many causes globally. Chris annually plants multiple forests through his business to offset his own carbon footprint and set an important example for others to be the change we wish to see in the world.

Chris's philosophy focuses on positive change. By addressing our own attitudes and actions first, we can make a positive difference for others and the environment around us. This is a message Chris reinforces in all of his talks and public appearances. An inspirational speaker, Chris aims to educate and motivate audiences by sharing his incredible experiences, leaving your audience members energized and inspired to adopt a 'can-do' attitude. Chris is also able to adapt and personalize any of his keynotes to align with your company values, mission, or a particular message.

Chris is available for both in-person and virtual events, and his keynotes can focus on themes of motivation, change, resilience, innovation, establishing a positive mindset, and sustainability.