Testimonials
PwC
As the Co-Chair of the PwC UK Gender Balance Network, I had the privilege of Emily taking part in our panel event for International Women’s Day event, themed "Accelerate Action." Emily's presence brought an inspiring energy to our panel discussion, where she shared her remarkable journey as a professional rower and Olympic medallist.
Emily's story is not only one of extraordinary athletic achievement but also of resilience, determination, overcoming setbacks and breaking barriers. Her candid insights into the challenges she faced on her path to success resonated deeply with our audience, leaving them motivated and empowered. The way she eloquently articulated her experiences made a lasting impact on everyone present.
What was really great was the way Emily engaged with attendees after the event. She took the time to connect with individuals, was very personable and shared her experiences. Her warmth and approachability made her a standout guest at our event, reinforcing the importance of mentorship and support in empowering future generations.
I wholeheartedly recommend Emily as a speaker for any event focused on motivation, empowerment, and gender balance. Her story, which she really brought to life, is a testament to what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance, and I have no doubt she will continue to inspire audiences far and wide.
- Riaz Shipton, Co-Chair Gender Balance Network at PwC
Mornflake Oats
Emily’s presentation on her journey to the Olympics was nothing short of inspiring. Her passion & determination captivated everyone in the room. As a proud supporter of British rowing, Mornflake is honoured to have supported such a dedicated athlete who embodies the true spirit of perseverance and teamwork. Thank you, Emily, for sharing your story with us - truly unforgettable.
-Charlotte Gribbin, Mornflake Oats
Westfield Health
I just wanted to reach out to say that the session today with Emily was fantastic, the team really responded well to the content and how Emily ran the meeting.
I think it was the perfect timing for us too, so many thanks for that, and please pass on our thanks to Emily for coming over to Sheffield and running a great session.
-Ed Lawrance, Westfield Health
Dulwich Boat Club
We had Emily speak at our Boat Club dinner recently and she was outstanding. Emily has a story that will inspire everybody who hears how perseverance and resilience can lead to achieving incredible results.
On top of this, Emily is an exceptionally kind and generous person. Exactly the kind of person any business would want to have a connection with.
-Tristan Mayglothling, Dulwich Boat Club
Northwich Rowing Club
Really pleased to have Emily Ford speak at our 150th Gala Dinner. Humble, honest and inspiring, she captivated the audience with her Olympic journey and all the valuable life lessons learned along the way! Fantastic!
-Graham Jump, Chair, Northwich Rowing Club
The Kings School Rowing Club, Chester
I invited Emily to speak at our Parents' Association Spring Ball, believing she would be a brilliant addition to the event. She took a genuine interest in our programme and visited the rowing club to better understand the pupils’ experiences. Emily’s status as an Olympian earned instant respect, but it was her approachable and engaging nature that truly connected with everyone. She communicated clearly in the lead-up to the event and ensured her speech was tailored to the audience. On the night, her inspiring story and thoughtful advice captivated the room.
-James Gray, The Kings School Rowing Club
Newcastle University Boat Club
Since graduating Newcastle University in 2017, Emily has been a source of constant inspiration and advice to both our athletes and coaches alike. Her unmatched toughness as the fiercest of competitors sits in stark contrast to the wonderfully jovial, yet mature, personality she possesses. This lends itself well to being a role model that our athletes have, and do, look up to. As our club captain and now as an international alum, she epitomises the attitude of: train and race hard, with a smile on your face, whilst helping those around you. Emily has maintained contact with NUBC, regularly offering advice and guidance to young aspiring rowers, regardless of their ability and whatever their need. Whether it is talking in front of a large group as part of a panel discussion,leading presentations on a particular topic, or in one to one discussions around personal or delicate matters, all have found Emily to be incredibly approachable and understanding and more than willing to share her experiences, both good and bad, in order to help them.
As I said, Emily has done a number of talks and presentations with our rowers, coaches and alumni and they have always found her to be relatable and accessible due to her easy, relaxed mannerisms. Emily has been a powerful advocate of ‘women in sport’, helping to break down some of the many taboos that exist in our society that prevent females from reaching their potential, again sharing personal stories and reflections with emotion and eloquence in equal manner. She talks without any sense of pretence or embellishment, and her self-deprecating humour helps her engage with all who hear her speak. A particularly memorable occasion was when Emily presented on the importance of failure on her journey to success. To say that the audience were spellbound is an understatement.
Emily can’t help but endear herself to all those around her, inspiring a huge amount of loyalty in all who are fortunate enough to get to know her. As soon as Emily arrived at Newcastle in 2013, she was instrumental in establishing the foundations of the culture that continues to drive the success we experience today. Due to her nature, I am certain that she will not be aware of just how important she was in my own development from a young inexperienced arrogant coach to the person I am today, both professional and personal. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had the privilege to work with such a talented rower and, far more importantly, such a special person. Anyone who listens to Emily speak can’t help but see that if they pursue their passions with the same amount of emotion, drive, and humility as she did, they will go far in whatever they set their minds to.
-Alex Leigh, Newcastle University Boat Club