Forces speakers company launched by alumnus

Raleigh Addington (Economics and Politics 2009) was motivated to set up the company after his older brother, Ed was severely wounded by a bomb in Afghanistan. Raleigh was appearing on the BBC's hit TV show The Apprentice at the time but pulled out of the contest so that he could support his brother.

Raleigh said: “The lessons ex-servicemen and women provide from their experiences have a direct relevance to the corporate environment and making decisions under pressure.

“Military Speakers helps to link those people with inspiring stories and remarkable achievements in the armed forces, to those who are keen to listen and learn from the experiences of these inspirational individuals.”

Raleigh has worked for a number of charities since graduation and set up the charity Tickets for Troops in 2010.

He has built up connections across the military and among those on his books are bomb disposal expert Kim Hughes GC, Lance Corporal Derek Derenelagi, a Team GB Paralympian and Lance Corporal Johnson Baharry VC, who was awarded the Victoria Cross in 2005. Christina Schmid also represents the courage and bravery of forces’ families, supporting military causes as the widow of Olaf Schmid GC – a bomb disposal expert.

To find out more visit the Military Speakers website.