Musician, Humanitarian & Activist

One of music’s most prolific and passionate icons, Bob Geldof has made his mark outside music advocating human rights. He turned his energies to the 1984 Ethiopian famine and the following year brought the world’s attention to African suffering with the hugely successful Live Aid concert. Recognised in 1986 with a Knighthood for his humanitarian efforts, and in 2005 with a Brits Lifetime Achievement award for music, Bob’s presentation is full of inspiration and motivation as he retells the journey and experiences of his life.

Sir Bob Geldof was born in Dublin on 5 October 1954. Geldof entered the music scene as a journalist on Canada's premier underground rock journal Georgia Straight. Further experience with the New Musical Express and Melody Maker sharpened his prose and upon returning to Dublin, he formed the band The Boomtown Rats, one of the first acts to emerge during the punk/new wave explosion of 1976/77. After a series of hits, including two UK number 1 singles, Geldof emerged as one of the most well known pop personalities of his era.

Bob Geldof had always had an acerbic wit and provided excellent interviews with an energy and enthusiasm that matched any of his articulate rivals. After starring in the film of Pink Floyd's The Wall, he turned his attention to the dreadful famine that was plaguing Ethiopia in 1984.

 After receiving a knighthood in June 1986 and publishing his autobiography, Bob Geldof recorded the solo album, “Deep In The Heart Of Nowhere", which spawned the minor hit "This Is The World Calling'. His second album, “1990’s The Vegetarians Of Love", was recorded in only five days and proved a hit with critics and fans alike. Complete with folk and Cajun flavorings and an irreverent stab at apathy in the hit single "The Great Song Of Indifference", the album undeniably proved that Bob Geldof should continue his recording career.

 By 1992 Bob Geldof had established himself as a highly astute businessman with his co-ownership of the television production house Planet 24, which began life as Planet Pictures back in the mid-80s. The company broke into the big time by launching the pioneering early morning television series The Big Breakfast in 1992. Planet 24 was sold.

Presentation Topics Include

• World politics
• International and current affairs
• Humanitarian issues
• Philanthropy
• Poverty
• Human rights 
• Africa
• Leadership
• Motivation
• Media, press relations and travel
• Business and entrepreneurship 
• Brexit, UK and Irish Politics
• Music
• Sir Bob's Life Story - Band Aid and beyond

Testimonials

What an incredible speech! He [Bob Geldof] really is the best orator I have ever seen.
YIBC