Supporters

Our Speakers

The Inspire Foundation has been supported by world-class speakers sharing their success, challenges, insights and vision since its inception.

Our Ambassadors

Joseph Sullivan

Joseph Sullivan came on board as our first Ambassador for the Marlborough Inspire Foundation. Joseph has had an illustrious career in rowing, culminating in winning Gold at the 2012 London Olympic Games, Gold at 2010 and 2011 World Rowing Champs, five consecutive world titles at U23 and Elite Rowing Champs, and in 2013 was appointed a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to rowing.
He retired from the sport in 2014 when he spent two years wth the New Zealand Fire Service based in Auckland. In 2016, he joined Emirates Team New Zealand as a grinder, and was part of the successful campaign to bring back the America's Cup from Bermuda. Joseph has inspired many young New Zealanders with his achievements and we are grateful for his involvement.

"Sometimes you get knock backs that can make you question why you do, what you do and it can also make you think about other options but it shows true resilience when you have confidence in yourself to keep pushing to achieve your dreams.

Throughout my career I couldn't even tell you how many times I questioned what I was doing and how many times I was let down by selectors and told I wasn't good enough.

It's difficult to be judged by someone else on your abilities but if I had listened to everyone that told me I wasn't good enough I wouldn't have 5 World Championship Golds, 1 Olympic Gold Medal and be part of the America's Cup winning team" Joe

Craig Harper

In 2019, he took on the challenge of Race across America solo, where he finished 4th overall in his rookie year. Over the years, Craig Harper has slowly established himself as one of New Zealand's leading ultra-endurance athletes. Since then, Craig has continued to challenge himself on the bike, as well as further develop his interest in the mindset and mental challenges that are so important in Ultra-Cycling.

"I'm a father of 2 girls, husband, and builder by trade. I have enjoyed competitive sports my whole life, from local to international level. I really enjoy the challenge of building a high-performance team, but equally, enjoy testing myself as an individual. My younger years taught me the importance of commitment and hard work. My latter years have taught me how self-belief and perspective are necessary to be content"