Mark Wood

Mark Wood is a world-renowned polar explorer, environmentalist and educator who has inspired audiences globally with his remarkable feats and powerful message on sustainability. As a seasoned adventurer with over 30 expeditions under his belt, Mark has become a compelling speaker who bridges the gap between exploration and education. He is frequently invited to speak due to his unique ability to captivate audiences while encouraging urgent reflection on climate change, environmental stewardship and the power of individual action. His expeditions, often conducted in some of the world’s most extreme environments, serve as both personal challenges and educational platforms aimed at reconnecting people – particularly young learners – with the natural world.

Mark’s journey began in the British Army, serving in the Second Battalion of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. His time in service laid the foundations for his discipline, resilience, and commitment to purpose. After his military career, he worked as a firefighter, further deepening his sense of duty and public service. These early experiences instilled in him a profound respect for teamwork, endurance and facing adversity – qualities that have underpinned his career as an explorer. Mark gradually transitioned into polar exploration, combining his passion for adventure with a growing interest in environmental education, leading to groundbreaking expeditions that have made him a leader in his field.

In recent years, Mark has continued to push boundaries both physically and intellectually. In 2024, he led a pioneering Arctic expedition to Svalbard alongside ten students with additional needs, championing inclusion in extreme environments. He has summited Everest multiple times, most notably during the People’s Moon project in 2019. Perhaps most impactful was his 2013 Everest summit, which he live-streamed to over 10,000 students worldwide, offering a real-time educational experience from the top of the world. His work has been recognised with an honorary doctorate from Arden University, and he remains an active figure in organisations such as the Royal Geographical Society and the Explorers Club.

Preparing for a 1,000-mile Arctic dog-sledding mission after leading Himalayan expeditions, Mark tells all in his keynote, Resilience in the Real World. He is hired as a speaker not only because of his extraordinary achievements but also because of his genuine passion for inspiring change. His storytelling resonates across generations, and his educational outreach has reached over 1.2 million students worldwide. Whether through school programmes, live broadcasts or keynote speeches, Mark’s mission remains constant: to reconnect people with the environment and to demonstrate that even in the harshest of conditions, purpose, courage and education can make a lasting impact.