Nigel Owens: International Rugby Referee
- Highlights:
- Travels from: Cardiff, Wales
- **Fee range: On Request
Keynote Topics
Read Full Bio
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
No reviews available for this post.
Talent FAQ's
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
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.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
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.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
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 and other costs
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.
Deposits and securing a booking
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.
Additional tips and takeaways
- 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
- (20)
Abigail Posner is a multi-talented professional, combining creativity, intellect, and innovation into her work. With a rich background in various fields and a passion for exploring the intersection of technology and creativity, she has become a recognized figure at Google, consistently pushing the boundaries of brand marketing. Posner’s journey began with a solid academic foundation. […]
- Travels from: New York, NY
- Marketing Speakers
- (13)
Darielle Williams aka Black Cat has toured with Beyoncé and performed in a Vegas Cirque-style show. She provides a unique experience that is bound to elevate any event. Her style is a mixture of ballet, contemporary and a little sass which audiences fall in love with. She specializes in aerial hoop, silk, hammock, pole dancing, […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Aerial Performers
- (21)
- (13)
Allison Massari, an extraordinary inspirational speaker hailing from the scenic town of Belvedere, California. Her journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, as she not only overcame unimaginable adversity but has dedicated her life to inspiring others through her compelling story and motivational insights. Allison’s life took a drastic turn in […]
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- Inspirational Speakers
- (6)
- (3)
Wema Hoover is a trailblazer in the fields of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), organizational development, and authentic leadership. With a career spanning decades, she has become a trusted voice for driving meaningful transformation in corporate culture. Known for her ability to inspire leaders and teams alike, Wema’s thought-provoking insights and actionable strategies resonate on […]
- Travels from: New York, NY
- Diversity Speakers
- (35)
- (4)
Shane Snow is a renowned keynote speaker, celebrated author, and esteemed entrepreneur whose expertise in high performance, culture, and teamwork has transformed organizations worldwide. As the co-founder of the content technology company Contently and an acclaimed journalist, Shane’s insights into the dynamics of collaboration and innovation have positioned him as a thought leader in today’s […]
- Travels from: Chicago, IL
- Human Values
- (30)
- (3)
Amanda Stevens, the distinguished Consumer Futurist and Customer Experience Speaker, stands out as one of Australia’s most revered female speakers. Renowned for her captivating presentations, she seamlessly blends entertainment, inspiration, humor, and engagement to create an unforgettable experience for her audiences. With her unparalleled ability to tailor each speech to resonate deeply with diverse audiences, […]
- Travels from: Brisbane, QLD
- Futurists Speakers
- (41)
Phillip Koontz, a former Navy SEAL with over six years of service, stands as a beacon of resilience, leadership, and adaptability. Through the crucible of SEAL training, Koontz honed his skills and acquired invaluable life lessons that he now imparts to others, helping them navigate the challenges of their personal, professional, and family lives. Phillip […]
- Travels from: Colorado Springs, CO
- Military Speakers
- (29)
- (8)
Imagine a scenario where a room full of non-musicians seamlessly transforms into a harmonious orchestra, each member playing their part naturally and effortlessly. Now, envision Steve Barnett at the helm, orchestrating this symphony without uttering a single word, yet conveying volumes about leadership, communication, cooperation, and synergy. Steve Barnett is not just a motivational speaker; […]
- Travels from: Johannesburg, SA
- Motivational Speakers
Disclaimer
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.