“Obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.” - Michael Jordan. David’s mountaineering passion has always been evident whether he was leading the first Singapore Mount Everest Expedition in 1998 or returning to mountaineering and going on to more than fifteen expeditions after becoming partially disabled due to Guillain-Barre Syndrome. David is also a renowned motivational speaker where he shares his experiences as a mountaineer and a corporate leader. Some of his notable clients include Walmart, LinkedIn, Lego, Citibank, Prudential, and Hewlett Packard. David has also authored several books including ‘Mountain to Climb: The Quest for Everest and Beyond’, ‘Against Giants: The Life and Climbs of a Disabled Mountaineer’ and many more.

What challenges did you face on the path to a successful return to mountaineering expeditions? How did you face those challenges?D: Its tough to return back to the same climbing challenges you were used to because without functioning calves and one ankle, the really steep type of climbs were beyond me. SO i had to reframe climbing challenges, substituting the technical mixed climbs on ice and rock I like with easier angled snow climbs, but where the route might be on more remote peak, or where the challenges focused more on the physical effort rather than technical skills

Which is your most memorable expedition so far and why?D: Probaby my solo ( and possibly the 4th ever ) of the world’s highest volcano Ojos Del Salado in 2005. This was a climb where everything on the summit days depended on me and me solely. No sherpas, no climbing partners etc to rely on for advice or help. Truly, this was the ultimate test for me from a mental and physical viewpoint

What message do you like to convey via your keynote presentations?D: I often convey messages of the importance of clarity in your goals, finding purpose in what you do. Also, the importance of creating a winning culture in a team by using a mix of creating an environment in which people can thrive and excel and managing the hard conversations that need to be had from time to time

How do you balance outdoor expeditions and professional life?D: I dont. I have one life. I work when on holiday and I holiday on a work week. I dont compartmentalise too much

What are your other hobbies?D: Walking my dogs and geocaching!

What is your favorite place to visit? What do you love about that place?D: I love Japan in all seasons, especially the ski season where the powder is deep, the hot springs great in which to relax and of course the fine food japan has

What is your suggestion for families of children with disabilities to empower their children?D: Help them with their dreams, while reframing the challenges constantly. Instead of saying “ Alas, one leg of mine no longer works. No more mountaineering for me”, say “ I now only have one leg that works. What kind of mountains can I still climb?"

What tips/advice do you have for those in our community who want to overcome obstacles?D: Look at solutions for those obstacles instead of focusing on why something cant be done

Any special message for our community?D: No specific one - except this” You have one life. You may have a few bits less than others, but never let that stand it the way of success