020 8914 8966
020 8914 8966
Benjamin Mee has a wonderfully unique story to tell. An uplifting and inspiring story that resonates with everyone; the need to carry on despite adversity, to persevere against the odds, and to create a home for one's family
Andy, Capita PL
Benjamin Mee – Zoo Founding Director, Bestselling Author of “We Bought a Zoo” & Inspirational Keynote Speaker
Benjamin Mee is a remarkable storyteller, entrepreneur and motivational speaker whose real-life journey blends risk, leadership and resilience. After purchasing and transforming a failing zoo with his family under extreme personal and financial pressure, he authored the international bestseller “We Bought a Zoo”, later adapted into a Hollywood film. Today, Benjamin engages audiences with humour, humanity and practical insight, showing how bold decisions and authentic leadership can turn adversity into opportunity.
Speaking Topics
- Overcoming Adversity and Leading Through Change
- Teamwork, Innovation and Entrepreneurial Spirit
- Sustainable Leadership and Conservation Mindset
- Building Culture Under Pressure
- Vision, Risk and Opportunity in Business and Life
Credentials & Impact
Benjamin Mee began his professional life with an unconventional path, studying Psychology at University College London and completing a Master’s in Science Journalism at Imperial College. In 2006, he and his family purchased Dartmoor Zoological Park, a struggling zoo at risk of closure, with no prior experience in zoo management. Facing immense personal challenges, including the loss of his wife Katherine to a brain tumour, Benjamin led the zoo’s transformation into a thriving visitor attraction and later a registered charity. His leadership journey is one of courage, perseverance and innovation, proving that passion and resilience can overcome even the greatest odds. Benjamin’s story has inspired thousands worldwide, and he continues to use his platform to promote conservation, leadership and mental strength.
Publications & Media
Benjamin Mee is the author of the bestselling memoir “We Bought a Zoo”, which chronicles his family’s incredible journey of rescuing and rebuilding a zoo from the ground up. The book’s success led to its adaptation into a major Hollywood film starring Matt Damon. Benjamin’s story has been featured in newspapers, magazines and television documentaries across the globe. His talks often draw from his experiences in business, storytelling and sustainability, offering deeply personal lessons about purpose and perseverance.
Why Book Benjamin Mee?
Booking Benjamin Mee gives your audience a speaker who embodies courage, vision and practical leadership. His remarkable journey from journalist to zoo-owner to bestselling author provides a wealth of insight into change, teamwork and resilience. Warm, engaging and thought-provoking, Benjamin inspires audiences to act boldly and embrace challenge as a path to growth.
To book Benjamin Mee to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.
