The day-long event, In The Arena, is aimed to inspire the region’s business leaders and their teams, as a series of high-energy anecdotes are delivered at the University’s neo-Elizabethan manor house, Putteridge Bury.

All of the profits from the event will be going to the charities The Akabusi Charitable Trust (TACT) and i-Tang (In The Arena, Next Generation).

Held on Wednesday 1st October, it will be hosted by BBC Three Counties Drive-Time presenter Roberto Perrone, and as well as former 400m and 400m hurdles sprinter Kriss Akabusi, who now runs the motivational speaking firm – The Akabusi Company, those delivering speeches include:

• Mark Colbourne MBE – Former Paralympic C1 cyclist, Mark took home two Silvers and a Gold medal at London 2012. Mark had gone through hell and back in a near fatal paragliding accident in May 2009. Refusing to allow his injuries to limit or define him, Mark looked to a former love of cycling. Today he works as an international speaker, recounting his story at corporate events and nutritional seminars.
• Angela Muir – Head of the Alliance Collaboration Team (between Ashridge and Hult International Business School). A Business Psychologist, doctoral researcher and executive coach, she specialises in working with organisations globally to design and deliver interventions to impact behaviour change and improve performance
• Katie Hart – Founder and director of Rhetonic Ltd – making a career out of helping people and businesses to make the most of themselves, with over 20 years of psychological knowledge
• Steve Head – a former sales management, leadership and marketing expert, Steve now runs Steve Head Ltd. In 12 years he has delivered more than 1,500 sessions across Europe and is one of the most sought after motivational speakers in the UK.

Bill Rammell, Vice Chancellor of the University of Bedfordshire, said: “We are delighted to partner with The Akabusi Charitable Trust – and welcome Kriss Akabusi back to the University where he received an honorary degree last year. Kriss’ passion and confidence will help to inspire and transform business from across the region.”

Kriss added: “In my time as a sportsman we really did depend on many intricate networks of individuals all focussed on one goal but very clear on what their strengths and skill set were in order to deliver on the objectives. I’m so excited to have found in the University of Bedfordshire a partner whose knowledge, skills and resources are very different to The Akabusi Company, thus ensuring our delegates receive the best experience ever as we embed key fundamentals for success in an upturning economy.”

For more information and tickets visit www.akabusi.com

Editor notes:

The Akabusi Charitable Trust (TACT) – founded by Kriss Akabusi – aims to make a difference to the poorer communities in Africa, and particularly in Nigeria, the country of Mr Akabusi’s origin.

i-Tang (In The Arena, Next Generation) offers young ‘NEET’ (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) candidates the opportunity gain fundamental business skills.

Press passes are available on the day should you wish to join us. Please contact Ashanti@VirtuBrands.com ASAP to secure your place.