Janine Shepherd

Resilience expert, bestselling author and internationally acclaimed speaker helping audiences turn adversity into opportunity

Overview

Janine Shepherd is one of Australia's most respected resilience speakers, renowned for her extraordinary journey of overcoming adversity and redefining what is possible. A bestselling author, former elite athlete, pilot and researcher, Janine inspires audiences with a powerful message of courage, reinvention and personal growth. Through compelling storytelling and evidence-based insights, she demonstrates how setbacks can become catalysts for transformation and how resilience can be developed in both life and leadership.

Who is Janine Shepherd?

Janine Shepherd was once a national champion cross-country skier with her sights firmly set on representing Australia at the Olympic Games. Her future changed dramatically when a serious cycling accident left her with life-threatening injuries and permanent disability, bringing her sporting ambitions to an abrupt end. Faced with unimaginable challenges, Janine chose not to focus on what she had lost but instead on what remained possible.

Determined to create a new path forward, she went on to become a commercial pilot and aerobatics instructor, earn a university degree and establish herself as one of the world's leading authorities on resilience and human potential. Janine has authored six bestselling books, delivered internationally recognised TEDx presentations and continues to contribute to resilience research through her doctoral studies. Her inspiring life story has reached audiences worldwide through books, film and keynote presentations.

Career Highlights

• Former national champion cross-country skier and Olympic hopeful
• Internationally recognised TEDx speaker with millions of views worldwide
• Author of six bestselling books
• Qualified commercial pilot and aerobatics flight instructor
• Recipient of the Order of Australia (AO)
• Life story adapted into a feature film
• Featured on major programmes including 60 Minutes and This Is Your Life
• PhD researcher specialising in resilience and personal transformation

Key Speaking Themes

• Building resilience through adversity
• Reinvention and adapting to change
• Human potential and growth mindset
• Courage, perseverance and determination
• Wellbeing and personal transformation
• Navigating uncertainty with confidence

What Your Audience Will Gain

Janine equips audiences with practical tools and fresh perspectives for overcoming challenges and embracing change. Her presentations help individuals and teams develop resilience, strengthen their mindset and approach uncertainty with greater confidence. By combining scientific research with deeply personal experiences, Janine delivers inspiring and actionable lessons that create lasting impact long after the event has ended.

Ideal For

• Leadership and resilience conferences
• Corporate wellbeing and culture programmes
• Women in leadership and empowerment events
• Healthcare, rehabilitation and recovery forums
• Education and professional development conferences
• High-performance, motivation and mindset events

Frequently Asked Questions...

What does Janine Shepherd speak about?
Janine Shepherd speaks about resilience, overcoming adversity, personal transformation, growth mindset, leadership and thriving through change.

What happened to Janine Shepherd?
Janine's Olympic aspirations were cut short following a near-fatal cycling accident that resulted in severe injuries and permanent disability.

How did Janine Shepherd reinvent her life after her accident?
Following her recovery, Janine became a commercial pilot, aerobatics instructor, bestselling author and globally recognised keynote speaker.

What is Janine Shepherd's TEDx Talk about?
Her TEDx Talk, A Broken Body Isn't a Broken Person, explores identity, resilience and the importance of redefining personal limitations.

What books has Janine Shepherd written?
Janine is the author of six bestselling books focused on resilience, personal growth, recovery and overcoming adversity.

What recognition has Janine Shepherd received?
Janine was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in recognition of her achievements and contribution to the community.

Why do organisations book Janine Shepherd as a keynote speaker?
Organisations engage Janine for her inspiring story, evidence-based resilience strategies and ability to motivate audiences facing change, challenge and uncertainty.

Is Janine Shepherd available for keynote speaking engagements?
Yes. Janine Shepherd is available for conferences, leadership programmes, wellbeing events and keynote presentations throughout Australia and internationally.