Ben Cohen

Ben Cohen MBE is a former England rugby international and founder of the StandUp Foundation, the world's first anti-bullying charity focused on equality and inclusion. Ben earned over 50 caps for England and remains the joint second-highest try scorer in the team's history. He played a central role in England's 2003 Rugby World Cup victory and represented the British and Irish Lions. He has appeared on Strictly Come Dancing, Celebrity SAS Who Dares Wins, and The Real Full Monty, whilst collaborating with brands including Nike, Jaguar, and O2. Following his retirement from professional sport, Ben shifted his focus towards social impact and advocacy. He founded The Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation and works closely with charities including Orchid, BBC Children in Need, and Sports Relief. Diagnosed as clinically deaf himself, Ben supports initiatives promoting accessibility in sport for deaf and hard of hearing people. Ben’s experience competing at the highest level of international sport, alongside his work challenging bullying and discrimination, gives him a grounded perspective on resilience, identity, and leadership under pressure. He draws on his personal journey to explore what it means to perform in demanding environments, and how cultures built on respect, equality, and empathy support both individual wellbeing and collective success. His work spans sport, education, business, and community settings. Audiences gain insight into building stronger, more supportive teams, navigating adversity with honesty, and fostering inclusive environments where people feel valued and heard. Ben shares practical reflections on handling difficult conversations, managing pressure, and encouraging accountability, helping organisations create cultures that promote trust, resilience, and long-term engagement. Book Ben Cohen to inspire your audience with real-world lessons on teamwork, resilience, and creating positive change through leadership and action.