Ann Bancroft Speaking Fee: $20,000 to $30,000

Ann Bancroft is a renowned polar explorer, educator, and advocate whose life’s work has broken barriers and served as an inspiration around the globe. From her early days in the suburban landscapes of Minnesota, Ann harbored a profound curiosity about the natural world, which would eventually lead her to the icy expanse of the polar regions. Her remarkable journey began in 1986 when she joined the first all-women expedition to the South Pole, where she skied 1,000 miles to become the first woman to reach both the North and South Poles. In addition to her groundbreaking achievements in exploration, Ann Bancroft is deeply committed to education and advocacy. Her personal experiences with dyslexia instilled a passion for learning that informs her work today. Ann channels her experiences into inspiring youth, especially young women and girls, to pursue their dreams regardless of the barriers they might face. She founded the Ann Bancroft Foundation, dedicated to supporting and empowering girls through educational grants and mentorship programs. Ann’s contributions go beyond her own expeditions; they carve a path for future generations to dare greatly and confront the challenges of our time. Her expeditions not only challenge the physical boundaries but also promote environmental awareness and global cooperation. As a fierce advocate for women and girls, Ann promotes the spirit of exploration and underscores the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and courage. Beyond the polar ice, Ann Bancroft has become a sought-after speaker in various forums, sharing her story with an infectious enthusiasm that captures audiences. She brings a wealth of experience and insight, making her a prominent figure in the conversation about women in adventure and leadership. Her tales of resilience and triumph are not just about literal journeys, but about the inner voyages of overcoming limitations and making a difference. Today, Ann continues to inspire countless individuals through her work as an educator and activist. She is not just a pioneer in exploration, but a beacon of hope for those who are told their dreams are out of reach. Her legacy serves not only to remember the footsteps she has left in the snow but also to illuminate a path for future generations to follow.