Former British Army Soldier, Iraq War Bravery Commendation Recipient, Miss England 2009 Winner, Inspirational Speaker & Author

Katrina Hodge is a British Army veteran, inspirational speaker, and author whose remarkable journey has captured worldwide attention. Serving 12 years in the military, she was commended for bravery in Iraq after saving the lives of five comrades. Crowned Miss England in 2009, Katrina used her platform to campaign for change, successfully removing the bikini round from the competition to focus on role models over appearances. She has since raised over £1 million for charities, inspired countless young women, and become a sought-after keynote speaker, blending her experiences of resilience, leadership, and empowerment with an unforgettable stage presence.

Credentials and Impact

Katrina’s career began in the British Army, where she served for 12 years and earned commendation for bravery in Iraq after saving the lives of five fellow soldiers. Her military service laid the foundation for her reputation as a courageous leader under pressure. In 2009, while still serving, she entered the Miss England pageant, where she first came runner-up and was later crowned winner. Using her platform to advocate for change, she successfully campaigned to remove the bikini round, championing pageantry that celebrated role models and personal achievements over appearances.

After returning to active duty in Afghanistan, Katrina faced adversity and sexism, experiences that shaped her advocacy for equality and resilience in the workplace. Her ability to overcome challenges established her as a respected public voice and inspired countless young women and new recruits.

Following her military career, Katrina transitioned into speaking and advisory roles, becoming a highly sought-after keynote speaker at corporate, military, and women’s leadership events. She has been recognised with awards honouring both her service and her advocacy, while also serving on boards dedicated to veteran support and female empowerment. Today, her influence bridges leadership, diversity, and resilience, driving lasting impact across multiple sectors.

Publications and Media

Katrina is the author of ‘Combat to Catwalk’, her inspiring memoir that charts her journey from soldier to beauty queen and beyond. She has written and contributed to articles on equality, resilience, and overcoming adversity, making her a respected commentator on these issues. Regularly featured in the media, Katrina has appeared on Good Morning Britain and in national campaigns addressing bullying, sexism, and women’s empowerment in the workplace.

Why Hire Katrina Hodge?

Katrina brings a rare combination of military heroism, public advocacy, and personal resilience that makes her an unforgettable speaker. Her journey from the frontlines in Iraq and Afghanistan to the Miss England stage showcases her ability to break stereotypes, overcome adversity, and inspire others to reach their potential. Having challenged sexism in the armed forces and reshaped beauty pageants to focus on role models, Katrina embodies the values of courage, integrity, and determination.

Her talks are powerful and relatable, blending humour, honesty, and practical lessons that resonate with audiences across corporate, military, and educational settings. Katrina has captivated international stages, sharing her insights on resilience and leadership with audiences from boardrooms to global conferences. Whether for International Women’s Day, diversity initiatives, or corporate team events, booking Katrina guarantees an engaging, motivational, and transformative experience that leaves audiences empowered and inspired to act.

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