Don't think of what you were, but of what you are and of what you aspire to be.
Wojtek Czyz exemplifies the resilience and determination that define a true champion.
Born in Poland in 1980 and raised in Germany, Wojtek's path to success took an unexpected turn at the age of 21. After securing a contract to play professional football, a collision during a match resulted in a severe knee injury, leading to the amputation of his left leg above the knee. Instead of viewing this as the end of his athletic dreams, Wojtek embraced the challenge and turned adversity into a source of strength.
Remarkably, just six months after the amputation, Wojtek won the German championships in both the 100m sprint and long jump. This was only the beginning of his illustrious career in Para athletics, where he went on to represent Germany in three consecutive Paralympic Games—Athens 2004, Beijing 2008, and London 2012. Across these events, he amassed seven medals, including four golds, establishing himself as a dominant sprinter and long jumper.
His drive for excellence extended beyond the track. Wojtek explored the world of freediving, where he set five world records, showcasing his versatility and determination to master new disciplines. More recently, after relocating to New Zealand with his family, he embarked on a new challenge in Para badminton. In just a few years, Wojtek soared through the ranks and achieved his goal of qualifying for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, representing New Zealand on the international stage.
Wojtek’s impact reaches beyond sports. He led the "Sailing4Handicaps" project, a five-year global sailing journey during which he provided prosthetic limbs to 90 people in need across various countries. His legacy continues to grow as he combines athletic achievement with humanitarian efforts, embodying a spirit of perseverance and generosity that inspires many.
Outside the world of sports and humanitarian efforts, Wojtek has carved out a niche for himself as a sought-after keynote speaker. With an impressive repertoire of over 300 speeches, he has delivered motivational addresses for industry giants such as Deutsche Bank, Audi, and BMW, among many others. His talks not only recount his personal journey but also serve as a beacon of hope, inspiration, and determination for countless individuals, proving that with tenacity and vision, any obstacle can be transformed into a stepping stone for greater achievements.
Talking Points
The Power of Perspective: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Wojtek Czyz's life is a testament to the indomitable spirit of human resilience and determination. From a devastating sports injury that led to amputation, to standing tall as a four-time Paralympic gold medalist, Wojtek's journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. In this compelling keynote, he takes us through the pivotal moments of his life: his pursuit of world records in freediving, the ambitious 'sailing4handicaps' initiative that saw him circumnavigate the globe donating prosthetic limbs, and his intense transition into the competitive world of parabadminton with an aim to represent New Zealand at the 2024 Paralympics in Paris. Wojtek's narrative seamlessly integrates his experiences with Deutsche Bank, Audi, BMW, and countless other organizations, offering invaluable insights on perseverance, adaptability, and the transformative power of perspective. This talk is not just about celebrating accomplishments; it's about understanding that with the right mindset, we can turn our greatest challenges into our most outstanding opportunities.
The Power of Perspective: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
