Mark Tewksbury

Reflections on leadership:  Embracing contradictions in a time of change 

There is so much uncertainty in the world that it can be challenging to know how to lead our teams through this!  What does it take to lead our teams to be their best within the current climate?  What do we need to do as leaders right here, right now?  Join us for an inspiring keynote by Olympic gold medalist and celebrated speaker Mark Tewksbury as he explores these topics.  

Drawing from his remarkable journey as an Olympian and his extensive leadership experience, Mark will offer insights into what it is needed to be our best as leaders and, more importantly, bring out the best in our people. Known for his captivating storytelling and ability to connect with the audience, Mark will leave you energized and equipped with practical tools to lead in these times. 

Mark Tewksbury first came to prominence as a record-breaking backstroke swimmer. His sixteen-year athletic career included 21 national titles, 7 world records, Olympic gold, silver and bronze medals, and a cover appearance on TIME magazine.

When he publicly came out in 1998, Mark was one of the first openly gay Olympic Champions in the world and has been a leader with the global 2SLGBTQ+ movement ever since.

In 2019, he was awarded a Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award for his work in gender inclusion and sexual diversity. In 2020, Mark was appointed Companion of the Order of Canada, the nation’s highest civilian honor. In 2022, Mark represented Canada as part of the Honours Procession at Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s State Funeral.

Mark is currently Vice President of the Canadian Olympic Committee. Embracing the notion of life-long learning, in 2023 Mark began studies to become a Red Seal chef and is supplementing his studies working in a commercial kitchen.