On October 5th, 1982 at 9:30am Laurie Skreslet received the distinction of becoming the first Canadian ever to climb to the summit of Mount Everest. As a result, he was given a great deal of attention upon his return to Canada. In the process of sharing the story of the climb with Canadians, he became aware of the relevance it held for members of the business community. Many saw a parallel between the challenges of the mountain, and the challenges they faced in the modern business world.
For the past 22 years, Laurie has given over 2,000 presentations across North America, Europe and Asia to audiences ranging from Fortune 500 companies to school groups.
Laurie has been a professional mountaineer for over 3 decades with extensive experience in the North American Rockies, South American Andes and Asian Himalayas. His expertise spans technical ice climbing, rock climbing, alpine and high altitude mountaineering.
Laurie is a Certified ACMG Guide (Association of Canadian Mountain Guides), with over 32 high altitude expeditions to his credit. He has also been an instructor at the Colorado and Canadian Outward Bound Mountain Schools, teaching over 45 courses.
Laurie has led 21 guided trips to climb Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere and one of the Seven Summits. His most recent trip was in the Spring of 2005.
Laurie has written an award-nominated children's book. To the Top of Everest was nominated for both the Hackmatack Children's Choice Book Award and the Canadian Library Association Book of the Year for Children Award. It has also been added to the Children's Literature Choice List.
What people say about Laurie's programs...
"He was absolutely outstanding - clearly someone who not only has worked to achieve the exceptional in his own life but also has the linguistic skill and ability to communicate that philosophy to his audience."
Canada Life
"A week after the conference, people are still talking about your wonderful and inspiring message... presentation was clearly the highlight of the event."
Sprint
"You exceeded our expectations in every way. I would not hesitate to recommend you as a motivational speaker for any conference. It was a pleasure to have met you and I wish you continued success in the future."
Rural Economic Opportunities Conference
"Thank-you for your most inspiring presentation. Our sales team was captivated by our enthusiasm and your unique ability to associate your experience with our business environment. Presentations this profound are rare."
Novartis
"Your presentation to the group was nothing short of fantastic! You made it relevant to our business while taking everyone on your journey to the summit. You truly made the conference the success it was because of your inspiring and 'real' style."
Fidelity Investments
"Your knowledge and more important your enthusiasm were just the high energy kick-off we needed."
Du Pont Canada Inc.