🧭 Mark Agnew – Adventurer, Resilience Speaker & Arctic Explorer
Mark Agnew is a British adventurer, journalist, and motivational speaker renowned for his groundbreaking expeditions and resilience-focused storytelling. In 2023, he made history as part of a four-person team that became the first to kayak the entire Northwest Passage using only human power, a feat that earned him the title of European Adventurer of the Year
🌍 Early Life & Background
Born in Edinburgh in 1991, Mark is the son of explorer Sir Crispin Agnew KC. He attended Fettes College and later studied at Newcastle University. Mark lived in Hong Kong from 2013 to 2021, where he founded the Outdoor & Extreme sports section of the South China Morning Post, the largest of its kind in any newspaper worldwide
🚣♂️ The Northwest Passage Expedition
In 2023, Mark joined the Arctic Cowboys—West Hansen, Jeff Wueste, and Eileen Visser—in a 103-day expedition to kayak the entire Northwest Passage from Baffin Bay to the Beaufort Sea. This journey marked the first time the passage was completed solely by human power in a single season. The team faced extreme cold, polar bear encounters, and challenging ice conditions
🏅 Recognitions & Awards
- European Adventurer of the Year 2023
- Endurance Asia’s Extraordinary Feat of the Year
- Top Explorer by World Explorer Collective
- Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society
🎤 Motivational Speaking & Advocacy
Mark is a sought-after keynote speaker, delivering talks on resilience, leadership, and overcoming adversity. His signature framework, JESS—Journey, Experience, Shared Experiences, and Sitting With Discomfort—draws from his expedition experiences to inspire audiences. He has worked with organizations like Google, Heineken, M&S, and the NHS
📚 Upcoming Book
Mark’s debut book, There Will Be Headwinds, is set to be published in 2025 by Icon Books. The book chronicles his journey from failed Atlantic rowing attempts to setting world records in the Arctic, offering insights into resilience and personal growth .
📌 Learn More
For more information on Mark Agnew’s adventures, speaking engagements, and upcoming projects, visit his official website or his speaker profile.