A Story That Stays With You
Josh Komen has lived through what most people can’t imagine. Once one of the fastest middle-distance runners in New Zealand, he was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia at just 23.
Twice.
His journey includes a stem cell transplant, a medically induced coma, multiple heart attacks, and years of intensive treatment overseas. But Josh didn’t just survive. He learned how to live with meaning, perspective and purpose and now shares that message of hope on stages across the country.
Audiences don’t just listen to Josh. They feel his story. They walk away thinking differently.
Why Book Josh to Speak?
Josh speaks to the part of us that knows life can be difficult. His keynotes cut through the noise with real-world experience, emotional intelligence and lessons that stay with people long after the event.
Whether your team is navigating change, overcoming stress, or simply needs to reconnect with what matters most, Josh’s message lands.
He doesn’t offer hype or fluff. He offers insight, perspective, and practical inspiration that builds personal resilience and strengthens collective culture.
His style is relatable, humble and deeply human. He connects equally well with executives, rural workers, teenagers and professional athletes.
Josh tailors every talk
Josh Komen’s message is built on lived experience, not theory. Through his journey, he shares powerful insights on courage, resilience, and the strength it takes to adapt when life unravels.
He speaks openly about mental health, the importance of asking for help, and the healing power of honest connection with ourselves and with others. In moments of loss or identity shift, Josh helps people rediscover who they are beneath the roles they once held.
Grounded in both personal truth and the wisdom of thinkers like Viktor Frankl, he shows how meaning can emerge from even the darkest moments and how that meaning can become the foundation for growth.
Who Josh Speaks To
Some struggles are seen; some are hidden. But no ones book is blank.
I have an epic story to tell. It's a tough story but a valuable story. It's everyone's story. Life is hard, it's difficult and it's challenging. However, those challenges have the potential to build courage within us.
What people say about Josh
Unforgettable Keynote
First time I’ve seen a standing ovation at a scientific conference. The room was deeply moved. Outstanding feedback from everyone.
Sparked Lasting Change
Josh’s genuine presence and powerful story sparked lasting change in our team. He’s kind, humble, and deeply impactful.
Standing Ovation Impact
Josh’s raw, inspiring story moved 150 attendees to a standing ovation. His message shifted mindsets across our entire business.
Connection Through Story
Josh’s warm style allowed instant connection. His message of resilience and gratitude deeply moved the Highlanders players.
Deep Personal Connection
Josh’s story of hardship and gratitude connects on a deeply emotional level. I highly recommend him as a speaker.
Wisdom & Emotion Combined
Josh had the audience laughing, crying, and learning powerful lessons on resilience and joy. Highly recommend him as a speaker.
Impacting The Next Generation
Josh’s powerful story of survival inspired youth across seven schools, showing resilience and overcoming adversity.
Confidence In Turbulence
Josh’s keynote left members feeling capable and courageous to meet life’s challenges head-on. The emotional connection was unforgettable.
Overcoming The Unthinkable
Josh’s keynote at SuperStart 2023 moved the entire room to a standing ovation. His strength and candour are unmatched.
From Diagnosis To Wellness
Josh’s story and breathing techniques deeply resonated with hundreds of health professionals across New Zealand.
A True Warrior
Josh’s resilience and inner belief inspired the Crusaders team. His story is powerful and deeply motivating.
A Lasting Impact
Josh’s powerful story gave our team a fresh perspective on handling personal and professional challenges with resilience.
Unmatched Impact
We host many speakers, but none have inspired our business audiences like Josh. I couldn’t recommend him more highly.
Heart-Warming & Courageous
Few deliver such courageous stories with so much professionalism. Whether big or small events—Josh is your man.
Ready to Book Josh to Speak at Your Event?
If you’re looking for a speaker who can bring emotional depth, real-life experience and practical tools to your audience — Josh Komen brings it all with honesty and heart.
His story won’t just be remembered. It will be felt.