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Jacqui Cooper

Jacqui Cooper is a world champion aerial skier and inspiring keynote speaker sharing her story of resilience, courage, and extraordinary achievement.

 

5.00 of 5

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5 of 5

“We invited Jacqui Cooper to be our key note speaker on the last day of our 3-day National Sales conference themed “Driving Success”, so not any easy speaking spot. From the first moment of talking to Jacqui I know she would be perfect for our conference her enthusiasm, passion, and energy came through the phone and I could tell that her story of success would set the right tone. Come the day of the conference, Jacqui immediately captured the entire audience’s full attention and she shared a remarkable story highlighting what is capable in life with the right planning, a lot of tenacity and a laser focus on goal setting. This story was peppered with some very funny anecdotes in a very down to earth and relatable style that meant the whole audience were enthralled and engaged, so much so, she received a standing ovation! After Jacqui’s Key note speech we followed up with some goal setting and I believe that everyone’s personal and work goals were set that much higher by taking some inspiration from Jacqui’s remarkable story. After the conference the overwhelming feedback was that Jacqui’s speech was the highlight of our conference and many people took personal inspiration and motivation from her story and storytelling manner. Thank you, Jacqui, for sharing your phenomenal story and best of luck in your new business ventures.”

David Bean

Solution Design and Marketing Manager

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Why book Jacqui Cooper for your next event

  • Hear the incredible journey of the five-time world champion who redefined resilience and determination.
  • Learn from Jacqui’s story of comeback, courage, and leadership in the face of impossible odds.
  • Be inspired by a woman who turned injury and adversity into strength, purpose, and lasting impact.

Non-binding request for Jacqui Cooper

World Champion Aerial Skier & Inspirational Speaker

Jacqui Cooper is one of Australia’s most celebrated athletes and a globally sought-after motivational speaker. Over a 20-year career in aerial skiing, she became a five-time world champion, competing in 139 World Cup events, nine World Championships, and five Winter Olympic Games. Her story is one of courage, grit, and relentless pursuit of excellence. From career-threatening injuries to record-breaking comebacks, Jacqui has redefined what it means to persevere. Today, she inspires audiences across industries with powerful lessons on resilience, leadership, and the strength of the human spirit.

 

A Record-Breaking Career

Jacqui Cooper’s career stands as one of the most remarkable in Australian sport. Spotted at just 16 years old on a trampoline in Melbourne, she was recruited into the demanding world of aerial skiing. With a decade-long vision to become a world champion, Jacqui achieved that dream and went on to dominate the sport for more than twenty years. Competing in 139 World Cup events, nine World Championships, and representing Australia in five Winter Olympic Games, she became the first Australian woman, across both Summer and Winter Games, to achieve this milestone.

Her record is extraordinary: five world titles, 39 World Cup medals, 24 World Cup wins, and three major World Championship medals. These achievements cemented her status as the greatest aerial skier of all time, admired not just for her victories but for her pioneering spirit and relentless determination.

 

Resilience Against All Odds

Jacqui’s journey was defined as much by adversity as by success. Aerial skiing is one of the most punishing sports, and her career came with a series of severe injuries, multiple reconstructions to her knee, elbow, shoulder, and hip. In 2001, she broke her back attempting to win her third world title and won it anyway. Just a year later, at the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, she shattered her knee and broke her leg two days before competing, ending years of preparation.

In 2010, after a grueling year of hip and knee rehabilitation, Jacqui made an astonishing comeback at the Vancouver Olympics. Having spent months in a wheelchair, she defied medical expectations to finish fifth, the best Olympic result of her career. Her perseverance became a symbol of resilience, earning admiration from fellow athletes and the nation alike.

 

Leadership Beyond the Podium

Beyond her athletic achievements, Jacqui has been a dedicated advocate for her sport and fellow athletes. Over two decades, she served on several key committees, including the Australian Olympic Committee Board, the Ski and Snowboard Australia Board, and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Athlete’s Committee. Her leadership and voice have shaped policies, improved athlete welfare, and inspired a new generation of sports professionals.

Her commitment to integrity, excellence, and fair play has been recognised with numerous honours, including the Victorian Young Australian of the Year for Sport, Victorian Sports Woman of the Year, and multiple Ski and Snowboard Athlete of the Year awards. In 2008, she received the prestigious Governor’s Award, and in 2025, she was presented with the Snow Australia Medal, a lifetime achievement honour acknowledging her impact, longevity, and legacy in the sport.

 

From Athlete to Inspirational Speaker

Since retiring, Jacqui has built an impressive career as a keynote speaker, MC, and workshop facilitator, addressing audiences across Australia and abroad. Her story, woven with triumph, defeat, and rebirth, captures the essence of human perseverance. Through authentic and energising storytelling, she connects deeply with her audience, reminding them that “success is not final; failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.”

Jacqui’s speaking engagements span schools, corporate events, and global conferences. She shares powerful lessons on resilience, leadership, teamwork, and mental strength, offering practical tools to overcome setbacks and thrive under pressure. Her honesty and humour make her sessions both moving and memorable.

 

Inspiring the Next Generation

Jacqui’s passion for education and wellbeing has seen her dedicate much of her post-sport career to inspiring young people. She speaks to students about the value of healthy living, goal setting, positive mindset, and the importance of being role models in their own communities. Her ability to connect with audiences of all ages reflects her authenticity and her belief in the power of perseverance and self-belief.

 

Book Jacqui Cooper for your event

Jacqui Cooper’s extraordinary life story, marked by world titles, shattered bones, and unbreakable spirit, continues to inspire audiences worldwide. Whether she’s addressing corporate leaders, educators, or students, Jacqui brings energy, vulnerability, and wisdom to every stage. Her journey reminds us that greatness is not defined by victory alone, but by the courage to rise after every fall.

Customer Reviews

5 of 5

“We invited Jacqui Cooper to be our key note speaker on the last day of our 3-day National Sales conference themed “Driving Success”, so not any easy speaking spot. From the first moment of talking to Jacqui I know she would be perfect for our conference her enthusiasm, passion, and energy came through the phone and I could tell that her story of success would set the right tone. Come the day of the conference, Jacqui immediately captured the entire audience’s full attention and she shared a remarkable story highlighting what is capable in life with the right planning, a lot of tenacity and a laser focus on goal setting. This story was peppered with some very funny anecdotes in a very down to earth and relatable style that meant the whole audience were enthralled and engaged, so much so, she received a standing ovation! After Jacqui’s Key note speech we followed up with some goal setting and I believe that everyone’s personal and work goals were set that much higher by taking some inspiration from Jacqui’s remarkable story. After the conference the overwhelming feedback was that Jacqui’s speech was the highlight of our conference and many people took personal inspiration and motivation from her story and storytelling manner. Thank you, Jacqui, for sharing your phenomenal story and best of luck in your new business ventures.”

Solution Design and Marketing Manager

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

“It is always a daunting task to source a guest speaker for an event. After sorting through a plethora of options, we took the plunge with Jacqui after receiving outstanding feedback on her presentation. Jacqui far exceeded what we could have hoped for in a guest speaker – our team and clients were captivated for hours at our lunch time events. We have booked Jacqui 14 times now; we don’t think we could find a better speaker for our events, so we just re-book her. Her presentation takes you on a uplifting journey, peppered with her wonderful down to earth humour. To say that Jacqui is great is an understatement, she is truly inspirational.”

Marketing Executive, Accountancy Insurance

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

“Jacqui presented to Domain's Women in Property Development lunch in February and was nothing short of sensational. She inspired the crowd through her incredible stories of will power, commitment and pushing through adversity. Jacqui used her experiences with sport as an example of striving to the best you can be no matter what your profession or passion. This was perfectly relatable to the corporate audience attending and we received incredibly positive feedback from the day thanks to Jacqui.”

National Trade Marketing Director: Developers, Marketing Director: Domain Vic

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

“Jacqui had us captivated from the moment she walked into the room. Her presentation to the Sales Team was delivered with enormous energy, enthusiasm and humour, and made us feel that ordinary people could truly achieve extraordinary things. Jacqui received a rare standing ovation from our group, who have commented months down the track that her message of determination and perseverance continues to inspire them daily.”

Alsco, Marketing Director

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

"Leadership Victoria has engaged Jacqui 15 times over the years. particularly where we are wanting to emphasise the importance of vision, determination and resilience; we know that Jacqui, through sharing her life story, will take our program groups right to the heart of these important leadership traits. Jacqui leaves our groups feeling inspired and determined to be there very best.

Manger Leadership Development, Leadership Victoria

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

“When we booked Jacqui, we expected an interesting story given what we knew of her history, but she far exceeded our expectations. Her mix of enthusiasm, passion, commitment and never give up attitude is both intriguing and infectious. Our collective group were in awe of her achievements and the road which brought her to the pinnacle of her career. We have booked many guest speakers over the years from varying backgrounds and it is fair to say Jacqui Cooper is one that will be remembered for a long time to come. Jacqui not only went above and beyond what was required of her during her booked speaking slot she took time to speak with anyone interested (and there was a lot!) afterwards. Jacqui is an absolute professional who we would highly recommend to anyone looking to drive a strong message surrounding leadership, culture, dedication and focus.”

New Holland Agriculture

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

“Jacqui shared with over 500 attendees some of her own life experiences and insightful observations when talking on the Conference theme of change. Jacqui’s demonstrated great ability to engage with a diverse audience was clearly evident by the reactions of the audience during her 40-minute presentation. She encouraged all in attendance to look at ways to reach certain goals and do good to others.” “Jacqui was a pleasure to work with during the planning process for the Conference. Her professionalism and planning suggest she was very well prepared for the Conference and her informal conversations before and after the presentation were well received. All in attendance valued her message which was delivered with the right balance of humour, enthusiasm and instructional guidance. Jacqui greatly enhanced the experience of all who attended the Conference. I would thoroughly endorse Jacqui as a key note speaker for any gathering.”

Rotary Club of Greensborough Central

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

“I just wanted to send a short note of appreciation for the outstanding session you ran at our Harcourts M1 Conference last week. I’ve been to many conferences and listened to over 200 speakers and I believe your session was the best I have ever heard. Your delivery was fantastic, the way you engaged with our people was amazing but I must say the level of dedication and discipline you have shown throughout your life to achieve your goals was by far the most impressive thing for me. If our people take 10% of the discipline you have shown they will all be superstars. Once again thank you for your time and more importantly thank you for your value.... You’re amazing.”

Harcourts Real Estate – Business Owner

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

“We asked Jacqui to tailor a 45 min presentation about Japan and deliver it at a travel expo about Japan, highlighting culture, adventure, the four seasons, sport and people. Jacqui delivered a presentation that inspired tour operators to want to leave the venue and get on a plane – destination Japan. Her delivery was fun, informative, relaxed, specific and engaging. We knew that Jacqui speaks regularly with a “set presentation”; she proved herself as a versatile speaker that can wow an audience with any topic or theme. Jacqui was so generous with her time, energy and effort; she helped us set up the event, she stayed to speak to the audience and was happy to have photos taken with anyone who asked. She also took the time to walk through the expo before leaving to ensure everyone had had the opportunity to meet with her. If you were looking for a “one of a kind” presentation that’s tailored just for you, then Jacqui’s name should be at the top of your list.”

Executive Director, Japan National Tourism Organization

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

Jacqui Cooper was the key note speaker for our annual Conference. I contacted Jacqui following a recommendation from a fellow associate. Her delivery certainly did not disappoint and was a real highlight of our event. Jacqui had everyone in the audience fascinated by her story; a combination of outstanding achievements and huge challenges. Jacqui did a fantastic job of making her story relevant and she was truly inspirational in her message. The key takeout for me was that you need to have a plan that is backed up by determination and persistence. If you want something enough you can achieve it. Jacqui was very generous with her time and stayed around after her speech to chat to members of our group and take photographs with anyone who wanted. I would certainly recommend Jacqui to any organization looking for an inspirational and engaging key note speaker.

National Business Manager- Woolworths, MARS PETCARE

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

I was so impressed when Jacqui Cooper presented to the Campbell Arnott’s business earlier this year. Full of positive energy and captivating her audience, Jacqui was very passionate and professional, leaving a lasting impression and motivating each and every employee who attended the event. Jacqui literally had the entire room cheering and, on their feet, giving her a standing ovation. She is a true inspiration to many of us by what she has achieved in her life. I could not recommend Jacqui highly enough, she is not only a world champion athlete, she is also a world-class story teller.

President, Campbell Arnott’s Asia Pacific

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

Jacqui spoke at our leadership conference in early June 2016 and brought fantastic energy to the room by approaching her story in a vibrant and entertaining way. Jacqui’s presentation translated her life experiences into practical life lessons that everyone in the room could use both in their personal and working lives. Her belief in her skills and the goals she was aiming for - or as she explained it ‘It’s not crazy; it’s commitment’ - resonated with everyone in the room. We came away with not only an entertaining presentation but with the knowledge that we need to be sure we have a shared understand of what our priorities are and then have the self-belief and determination to deliver on them.

Australian Taxation Office

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

Jacqui presented at our customer addressing our senior company executives and top tier customers. Jacqui captured the hearts and minds of over 100 people in the room with her incredible story of courage, determination and resilience. Her delivery was authentic, enthusiastic and from the heart. I’ve listened to Jacqui’s story a couple of times and am continually inspired by her. I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking to motivate and inspire their teams

Chief Executive Officer, AXIEO

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

I've worked with Jacqui on a number of projects, both large and small. The energy and passion with which she approaches her presentations is incredible. Jacqui's ability to blend her personal journey with key messages around vision, commitment, achievement and perseverance help draw her audiences in - whether large or small, leaving lasting memories not only of the topics covered but also of the incredible tenacity and drive of a remarkable elite athlete. I would recommend Jacqui to any organisation looking for unique perspectives on leadership, teamwork and high performance.

Managing Director, Bunnings Australia and New Zealand

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

“10/10 is the best way to describe Jacqui’s presentation. Jacqui delivers an hour packed with the trials and tribulations of her brilliant career on the slopes. Our customers have loved her relaxed presentation style, comparison of sport into business and the opportunity for interaction through questions and photos post event! We have booked Jacqui 8 times

State Sales Manager Vic/Tas, Realestate.com.au

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

Inspiring and motivating are the thoughts that emerge from Jacqui’s presentation. Jacqui immediately engages her audience with her relaxed presentation and sense of humour. She delivers her message with passion and takes her audience on a remarkable journey through the trials and tribulations of her amazing career as a World Champion Arial Skier. The courage and determination in overcoming cruel adversity is a life lesson on the rewards that can be achieved through perseverance and commitment. We would recommend Jacqui to any organization looking for inspiration.

COO - YPA Corporate Team

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

“Jacqui has to be one of the most enthralling, hilarious, energetic and inspirational people I’ve ever met. We were lucky enough to have Jacqui speak at a Conference for our Toyota Dealership Accountants in April 2016 and after hearing her captivating story, the whole room was raving about her. In fact, she was the only speaker at the Conference that received perfect 10’s on our feedback survey – and even a perfect 11! Her story inspires people of all walks of life, with the simple ideal that if you have a goal, giving up simply is not an option. She delivers her message in a way that commands the attention of the whole room and leaves everyone wanting more. It was such a pleasure and an honour to meet Jacqui and listen to her presentation and I would recommend to anyone that you would not want to miss the opportunity to have Jacqui speak at your event”

Business Planning Analyst - Southern and Central Region, Toyota Australia

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

It has been our pleasure to have Jacqui Cooper present on a couple of occasions. Each time she has the audience mesmerised with her story that show cases such incredible resilience, courage and strength of character. Not only a world class athlete Jacqui is a natural story teller. Her audience is left on the edge of their seat as they live through the highs and lows of her story. All of which is delivered with genuine warmth, humour and professionalism.

Product Development Executive | Professional Development | Member Services | CPA Australia

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

Jacqui Cooper is an amazing keynote speaker providing an insight into what it takes to go above and beyond. She had the audience on the edge of their seats by sharing her true-life story and the grit and determination she needed to succeed in the face of impossibility. An unforgettable experience, an unforgettable champion, truly one the most inspiring Australian sports women ever!

Quality and Educational Leader | Kindergarten Services Wyndham City Council

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

“We recently held our annual business unit conference at the Melbourne Intercontinental Hotel and invited Jacqui along to talk to the group. We chose Jacqui because she has had a long and successful career and has overcome adversity to get to the top of her sport. To say that we were impressed with Jacqui’s speech would be an understatement. Jacqui held us captivated for almost an hour as she told us about her childhood memories of becoming an international skilling champion, her rapid rise to success and how she overcame adversity, including several serious injuries, through sheer skill, persistence and ambition to get to the top of her sport. As a motivational speaker Jacqui was simply incredibly inspiring and I would recommend her to anybody. Thanks Jacqui for sharing your amazing story with us and I hope you have the opportunity to tell it to many others”.

National Manager Property and Facilities AGL Energy Ltd.

Jacqui Cooper

5 of 5

"Jacqui Cooper has a great story to tell, and she tells it with great humility, humour and is refreshingly “down to earth”; it’s rare amongst those high-profile successful sportspeople that tread the speaking circuit. We found Jacqui to be totally professional in her dealings with us as she prepared a presentation that was absolutely spot-on for the purpose, we invited her for – she does her homework and really listened to what we were after." "The response from our leadership group who were fortunate enough to be there for Jacqui’s session quite surpasses any that we’ve had before – they found her to be engaging and utterly approachable, and her story absolutely struck a chord that was totally aligned to the work we had them engaged in. We have already booked Jacqui to come and do more work with us, and I have no hesitation in recommending her to you if you’re after a really authentic, entertaining and professional speaker with a great message that shows people they can do whatever they set their minds to !"

General Manager - Human Resources, Bunnings Group Limited

Jacqui Cooper

Rated 5.00/5 based on 21 customer reviews

Keynotes

Keynote by Jacqui Cooper:

Aim higher. Think Bigger. Be bolder.

Jacqui Cooper is a 5-time Winter Olympian, she represented Australia in the sport of Aerial Skiing for 20 years. She won 39 World Cup medals, 24 World Cup victories, 3 World Championship medals and a record 5 World Titles. Jacqui’s story is one of triumph, tragedy, defeat, and success.

It’s a story that makes you believe in the strength of the human spirit. Through honest, authentic and energic storytelling, Jacqui connects with her audience, making her session compelling, relatable, and inspirational. She leaves a lasting impression of “Success is not final; failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.”

Request a quote: Jacqui Cooper Aim higher. Think Bigger. Be bolder.

Workshop by Jacqui Cooper:

Change – it’s a mindset

Are you ready to step outside your comfort zone; ready to make positive change? Choosing change is a mindset; it starts with stepping beyond comfortable, moving past your fears, and embracing growth and eventual evolution. Committing to make change (large or small) can be overwhelming, confronting and intimidating.

My “Evolve or Dissolve” workshop promises to challenge your mindset, your commitment to change, and your ability to step outside your comfort zone. “Dipping your toe into the water” in this session won’t be enough. Be ready to “jump feet first” and be open to making change, by engaging in fun activity-based workshop aimed at changing your attitude. When you change your attitude, you can change your life. When you stop evolving, you start dissolving!!

Request a quote: Jacqui Cooper Change – it’s a mindset

Jacqui Cooper | Show Reel | Saxton Speakers Bureau

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