As part of a World Record attempt, Darren led a team of injured and wounded veterans on an ambitious expedition to become the first team to kayak the length of Great Britain – from Land’s End to John O’Groats, a distance of more than 1,400 kilometres.

Over the course of 26 days, the team battled some of the most treacherous coastline in Europe. They faced the powerful swell of the Atlantic Ocean, navigated the second-largest tidal range in the world in the Bristol Channel, and continued their journey along the exposed waters of both the Irish and North Seas. Each day demanded relentless physical effort, precise decision-making, and unwavering trust in one another. On some days, despite spending over ten hours at sea, the team covered as little as 40 kilometres as conditions tested their resolve.

United by a shared purpose – to inspire other wounded veterans – the expedition pushed not only Darren, but every member of the team, to their physical and psychological limits. By leaning into teamwork, honesty, and mutual support, the team continued to move forward, eventually arriving at the northern tip of Scotland 26 days after departing the rugged Cornish coastline.

In his keynote speeches, Darren uses this expedition to explore the principle that success is never solo. He reflects on how bold and ambitious goals are achieved through trust, collaboration, and shared ownership – particularly when adversity and setback are unavoidable. Drawing on his experience leading wounded veterans in extreme conditions, Darren offers a fresh perspective on leadership, showing how authenticity, empathy, and vulnerability are not weaknesses, but powerful assets for the modern leader.