Diana Nyad

Keynote Speaker | World Champion Athlete and Author

DIANA NYAD captured the hearts of 25 million worldwide as she triumphantly completed her 35-year quest to swim from Cuba to Florida, reaching the Florida shore on September 2, 2013. Her historic achievement of 110.86 miles in 52 hours, 54 minutes, 18 seconds not only made her the first person to accomplish this feat but also exemplified her mantra “Never Ever Give Up.” A celebrated sports journalist with over three decades contributing to National Public Radio, The New York Times, and others, Diana is renowned for her compelling storytelling, notably in her memoir Find a Way. As an inspiring public speaker, she fulfilled another dream with her off-Broadway play “The Swimmer” at the Minetta Lane Theater, playing to sold-out audiences. Alongside her best friend Bonnie Stoll, Diana co-founded EverWalk, promoting nationwide walking initiatives and launching OceansCommit to combat single-use plastic. Inducted into multiple Halls of Fame, including the International Women’s Sports Hall of Fame, Diana’s influence extends to global platforms, from being congratulated by President Obama to being featured on Oprah Winfrey’s SuperSoul Sunday. Her life story was recently portrayed in the acclaimed film NYAD, starring Annette Bening and Jodie Foster.