British Gold Medal-Winning Paralympian Swimmer, BBC Sports Personality of The Year, Patron for Dwarf Sports Association & Regular TV Guest, Including ‘Strictly Come Dancing’

Ellie Simmonds OBE is a trailblazing British Paralympian who rose to prominence as a teenager, making history with multiple gold medal victories on the world stage. Renowned for her extraordinary achievements in swimming, she became a household name through her record-breaking performances at the Paralympic Games and her role as a flagbearer for Team GB. Beyond sport, Ellie has built a respected profile as a broadcaster, charity ambassador and advocate for disability awareness, using her platform to inspire change. Admired for her resilience and positivity, she continues to motivate audiences with her remarkable story of determination and success.

Ellie’s sporting journey began when she joined Team GB as a 13-year-old at the Beijing Paralympics, where she captured the nation’s attention by winning two gold medals. Over the following years, she became one of Britain’s most decorated Paralympians, securing further medals at London 2012, Rio 2016 and numerous World and European Championships. In 2016, she also became the first S6 swimmer to break the three-minute barrier in the 200m individual medley, setting a new benchmark in her sport.

Her impact extends well beyond the pool. Ellie was awarded an MBE in 2009 at just 14 years old, becoming the youngest ever recipient, and was later promoted to OBE for her services to sport. She has held ambassador roles for organisations such as WaterAid and The Scout Association, and is a proud patron of the Dwarf Sports Association UK. In 2019, she joined the organising committee for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, further shaping the future of sport. Most recently, she showcased her broadcasting skills as part of Channel 4’s coverage of the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Ellie’s career demonstrates both elite sporting excellence and a lifelong commitment to advocacy and representation.

Ellie has shared her journey and creativity through a range of books. Her most recent publication, ‘The Inspiring Story of Ellie Simmonds’ (2025), introduces her story to young readers, encouraging resilience and self-belief. Earlier works include ‘Swimming the Dream’, a children’s autobiography reflecting on her early years in sport, and the ‘Ellie’s Magical Bakery’ series, which uses fun, imaginative stories to promote themes of friendship and confidence. Beyond writing, Ellie has reached new audiences through media, including competing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2022, where she showcased her determination, adaptability and charm beyond the pool. Through her books and public appearances, Ellie continues to inspire children, families and communities alike.

Why Hire Ellie Simmonds?

Audiences book Ellie because she embodies resilience, determination and the power of representation. Rising to fame as a 13-year-old Paralympic champion, she went on to become one of Britain’s most decorated swimmers, inspiring millions through her achievements on the world stage. Her influence extends beyond sport, with ambassadorial roles for major charities, authorship of children’s books and broadcasting for major events such as the Paralympic Games.

She has also been recognised with several honours, including the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year Award and the Jaguar Academy of Sport’s Best British Sporting Performance for an Athlete with Disability. Ellie speaks with honesty about her journey, from training and competing at the highest level to navigating life with dwarfism, offering valuable lessons on perseverance, inclusion and embracing challenges. With her uplifting presence and powerful story, she leaves audiences motivated to pursue their goals and support greater equality in every field.

To book Ellie to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.