Proclaimed by the Telegraph to have 'Northern grit and determination, the perfect role model for business', Deirdre Bounds is one of the North’s most successful entrepreneurs and her company i-to-i.com is a great Yorkshire success story. She went from bedsit to exit in 10 years, selling her ethical travel company i-to-i.com to TUI Travel for millions. What makes Deirdre's story truly remarkable is that she is an entrepreneur in the purest sense-no commercial experience, no family history of enterprise, no money, just a great idea, a pile of passion, masses of mistakes and a sense of humour!

In creating her own ethical travel company, Deirdre used her own experiences as a drop out, a stand up comedienne and a wayward backpacker. Her aim was to challenge traditional ideas in the travel industry and dare to be different. She is living proof that business and personal success is available to all, regardless of background, gender, race, social class or any other obstacle that you can throw at it.

Deirdre’s story is thought provoking, human, very funny and provides key insight into success despite obstacles. This roller coaster ride will captivate you and leave you feeling more connected to your own life and energised to do something about it.

In keeping with her desire to give something back, Deirdre is Patron of Marie Curie Cancer Care in West Yorkshire and the Ambassador for Youth Enterprise across Yorkshire and Humber as well as Chairing the Board of Forward Ladies.

Deirdre’s first book ‘Fulfilment in Seven Simple Steps’ will be published in June 2009

 

Back to Speakers