Bromsgrove-based speaker coach and two-time TEDx speaker Dave James has received a Highly Commended award in the TEDx Speaker of the Year category at the Speaker Awards 2026.
The Speaker Awards, now in its fifth year, recognises the most inspiring and innovative professional speakers across the industry. Entries were evaluated by a panel of judges including prominent bookers, bureaus, strategists and coaches, with razor-thin scoring margins separating many categories. The awards were presented at a ceremony on Friday 3rd July 2026 at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London St. Pauls.
Dave was recognised for his TEDx talk, What Mindfulness and Meditation Can Do for Men, delivered at TEDxTamworth in 2025. The talk was selected as a TED Editor’s Pick and has since been watched over 22,000 times by viewers around the world.
A former A&E nurse and podiatrist, Dave made the move into speaking and coaching after recognising that communication sits at the heart of everything, from patient care to leadership to how we understand ourselves. He now works with individuals, leaders and organisations through Speaking Without Freaking®, helping people become confident communicators, whether that’s on a stage, in meetings or working with clients.
“It felt fantastic. To have your work recognised amongst peers you respect, that means everything,” said Dave.
For more information visit www.thespeakerawards.com