Nigel Owens: International Rugby Referee

    • Highlights:
    Reading time: 2 min
    Reviews: (0 reviews)
    • Travels from: Cardiff, Wales
    • **Fee range: On Request

    Keynote Topics

    Nigel Owens is a professional rugby union referee who made history by coming out as gay in 2007. One of the most recognisable figures in the game, Nigel is the world’s first openly gay referee and has overseen some of the sport’s biggest matches.

    Away from the pitch, he has become an established LGBT speaker who can recall the difficulties of being gay in such a masculine sport at corporate, public and Pride events.

    Nigel always struggled with his sexuality, particularly due to homosexuality being stigmatised in the world of sport. Coming to terms with who he had caused him to suffer from mental health problems and he even debated taking his own life.

    Nigel Owens | International Rugby Referee

    When booked as an LGBT speaker Nigel Owens often discusses these dark moments in his life, showing audiences how it is possible to overcome adversity and rebuild your mental health. Nigel is a patron of the LGBT Centre of Excellence Wales, a testament to how far he has come to pioneer support and equality for the LGBT community. In recognition of such work, he was made MBE in 2016.

    Throughout his career, Nigel has taken charge of some of the biggest rugby matches in the world both nationally and on the international stage. His first Test match came in 2003 and since then he has officiated more Test matches than any other official. This includes three World Cups and arguably his biggest success to date came when he oversaw the final in 2015 between New Zealand and Australia.

    As one of the first-ever Welsh professional referees, Nigel Owens longevity in the game is truly unique and his authoritative yet fair approach has made him incredibly well respected across the world.

    Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

    Videos

    Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

    Speaker Contact Form

    Enquiry Form

    No reviews available for this post.

    Was this profile helpful?

    Talent FAQ's

    Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

    Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

    The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

    Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

    Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

    • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
    • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
    • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
    • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
    • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
    • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
    • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

    Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

    View further speakers

    • (31)
    • (3)

    Scott McKain is internationally recognized as a premier keynote speaker, bestselling author, and thought leader, Scott has built his career helping individuals and organizations stand out in a crowded marketplace. With a captivating style and powerful insights, he has left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide by showing them how to rise above sameness and […]

    • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
    • Customer Experience
    • (34)
    • (1)
    Jeff Civillico - Image 12 (April 9, 2026)

    Jeff Civillico stands out as a unique blend of entertainer and inspirational speaker. His presentations are not just informative; they are interactive, engaging, and downright fun! With a background deeply rooted in entertainment, Jeff seamlessly incorporates humor and captivating routines from his acclaimed Las Vegas show, “Comedy in Action,” into his speeches. This fusion of […]

    • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
    • Motivational Speakers
    • (60)
    Sir Richard Branson - Image 05 (January 20, 2026)

    Sir Richard Branson is an international entrepreneur, adventurer, icon, founder of the Virgin Group, the eccentric and outspoken chairman of Virgin Atlantic Airways and the founder of Virgin Records. Famous for his daring entrepreneurial style, he oversees the Virgin Group, Ltd., an extensive conglomerate encompassing over 360 companies, including recording studios, a travel business, publishing […]

    • Travels from: London, UK
    • Business Speakers
    • (26)
    Vivienne Ming

    Dr. Vivienne Ming stands at the intersection of science, technology, and human potential. As a theoretical neuroscientist, delusional inventor, and demented author, she has dedicated her career to exploring how cutting-edge advancements can unlock and maximize human capacity. With a reputation for being one of the most innovative and thought-provoking speakers of our time, Dr. […]

    • Travels from: Berkeley, CA
    • Artificial Intelligence
    • (10)
    heidi hanna

    Dr. Heidi Hanna is the Chief Energy Officer of Synergy Brain Fitness, a company providing brain-based health and performance programs to individuals and organizations, a Senior Researcher with the Brain Health Initiative, and a Fellow and Advisory Board Member for the American Institute of Stress. Dr. Heidi is also an instructor at Harvard and a […]

    • Travels from: San Diego, CA
    • Peak Performance
    • (96)
    • Featured
    John O’Leary - Image 05 (January 23, 2026)

    In 1987, John O’Leary was a curious nine-year-old boy. Playing with fire and gasoline, John created a massive explosion in his home and was burned on 100% of his body. He was given less than a 1% chance to live. This epic story of survival was first showcased in Overwhelming Odds, the book his parents […]

    • Travels from: St. Louis, MO
    • Inspirational Speakers
    • (44)
    • (5)
    Dr. Willie Jolleyv

    Dr. Willie Jolley is not just another motivational speaker; he is a living testament to the power of resilience and perseverance. With a career spanning decades, Dr. Jolley has solidified his position as a triple threat personality and a global thought leader. Renowned as a Hall of Fame speaker, award-winning singer, and popular national radio […]

    • Travels from: Washington, DC
    • Motivational Speakers
    • (9)
    Magic Johnson

    Earvin Magic Johnson has become one of the most powerful African-American businessmen in the world. He is Major League Baseball owner, an NBA legend, a two-time Hall of Famer, an entrepreneur, philanthropist and popular keynote speaker. The business mogul has successfully parlayed his skills and tenacity on the court into the business world, propelling his […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Motivational Speakers
    Disclaimer
    The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

    These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

    Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

    All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

    Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

    Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
    Your subscription has been successful.

    Newsletter

    Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

    We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

    Our Mission:

    We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

    © All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

    AI Assistant
    Speakers Inc Logo 2024
    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.