Lee Donald
CR0054956 Lindsay Bruce. Aberdeen. Picture Shows climber Lee Donald. Lee has previously summited Everest and is heading for K2 next. Thursday 11th September 2025 Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson

Lee Donald

Extreme mountaineer, fitness entrepreneur and motivational speaker

*Fees are a guide only. Exact cost will be dependent on requirements and are subject to change.

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About Lee Donald

Lee Donald is a multi award-winning fitness entrepreneur, accomplished speaker, and extreme mountaineer. As the Director and Owner of Lee Donald Personal Training, she has transformed thousands of lives while earning an impressive 30 business awards. Her most extraordinary personal achievement came in May 2024, when she became the 7th Scottish woman to summit Mount Everest, fulfilling a lifelong dream against seemingly insurmountable odds. Known for her raw honesty, humor, and resilience, Lee brings unparalleled authenticity and inspiration to every speaking engagement.

Her journey into fitness and entrepreneurship was shaped by immense personal struggle. After 15 years battling an eating disorder, depression, alcohol addiction, and exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, Lee made the courageous decision to rebuild her life. In 2011, she launched her business from scratch—without premises, equipment, clients, or financial backing. Her discipline and determination were evident early on, as she became the youngest person in Scotland to achieve two double gradings and a triple grading in Scottish Shotokan Karate, earning her black belt at just 13. These formative experiences built the mental fortitude that has defined both her personal and professional life.

Throughout her career, Lee has accumulated numerous accolades reflecting her industry leadership and personal achievements. In 2025, she celebrated her 30th business award, including Female Fitness Entrepreneur of the Year 2025/26 (Scotland’s Prestige Awards) and the Business Award for Excellence (E2 Media). In 2024, she was named Personal Trainer of the Year 2024/25 (Corporate Livewire Global Awards) and received a Parliamentary Motion raised by Liam Kerr MSP recognizing her inspiring accomplishments. Her excellence has also been acknowledged by the Scottish Enterprise Awards, Scotland’s Business Awards, and the Best of the Best Awards. Beyond business, Lee has excelled as a competitor in obstacle course racing, representing Scotland at European and World Championship levels and defying medical predictions.

Lee’s speaking engagements go beyond sharing an inspiring story—they offer practical lessons on resilience, mindset, and mental wellbeing. She covers topics including Mindset, Mental Health & Wellbeing, Strength and Resilience, Female Inspiration, and her signature keynote Into The Death Zone – From Rock Bottom to the Top of the World.

Continuing to push her limits, Lee plans to become the first Aberdonian and only the second Scottish woman to successfully climb K2 in 2026. Her extraordinary journey resonates with diverse audiences, making her an exceptional keynote speaker who leaves a lasting impact.

To book Keynote Speaker Lee Donald, contact The Speakers Agency on +44(0)1332 810481 or email enquiries@thespeakersagency.com

Speech Topics
  • Into The Death Zone – From Rock Bottom to the Top of the World
  • Strength & Resilience
  • Mindset
  • Mental Health & Wellbeing
  • International Women’s Day Speaker

Videos

Testimonials

"Lee shared her powerful story of resilience from rock bottom to reaching the top of the world in 2024 as she climbed the world’s tallest mountain in near-impossible conditions. Lee’s honesty, humour, and grit left a lasting impression, reminding us all what is possible with just one step at a time."

ICR Integrity Limited

"So awesome to have you with us on International Women’s Day, we loved your talk!! Incredible."

Girls on Hills Festival

"Thank you for your amazing speech, it blew everyone's socks off!"

Scottish Women's Wellbeing Summit

"What a fantastic evening. You are an inspiration and one resilient woman."

Jay Mitchell

"Really enjoyed the evening, your presentation was excellent."

Kenneth Dalgleish

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