7th September 2020 - BigChange gave a big virtual welcome to Tracy Edwards MBE, this month’s Motivational Monday speaker.In a brilliant tale of triumph, Tracy detailed her journey from school expulsion to record-breaking sailing skipper, and shares her thoughts on resilience and how other peoples’ lack of expectation was the best motivation for her.
Tracy made history in 1989 as she led ‘Maiden’, manned by the first all-female crew, to compete in the Whitbread round the world yacht race. In the build up to the race she was doubted, dissuaded and “warned of a watery grave”. Despite these warnings, her crew finished second in its class, winning two out of six individual legs of the race.
As well as breaking countless records, Tracy has long been committed to improving child welfare worldwide, founding the Maiden Factor Foundation to advance girls’ education in 2014.
In the video, which you can view below, Tracey discusses how she had to take it upon herself to be the agent of change in a male-dominated field. She also tackles an uncomfortable truth: in order to progress as an individual “you need to stop being a bystander in your own life”.
Some key takeaways from Tracy’s visit include taking any opportunity you can to be closer to your end goal and being accountable to your expectations, especially if others have their doubts.
You can donate to the Maiden Factor Foundation here: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/bigchange-motivational-monday-with-tracy-edwards-m
