David Jarvis

Keynote & Motivational

Speaker

David Jarvis

Keynote & Activational Speaker
Helping people turn adversity into elite performance

What David believes:
At Speaking SBC, I believe that your biggest challenge can become your greatest advantage — if you learn how to understand it, embrace it, and use it to your strength. The obstacles that once felt like they were holding you back can often become the very things that set you apart, helping you grow in confidence, resilience, and self-awareness. With the right support and mindset, what feels difficult today can become the foundation for lasting personal and professional growth.

 

David in front of materials for Active Schools Volunteer Day

What David can do for you: 
At Speaking SBC, I deliver keynote talks that explore the important difference between resilience and prosilience, helping audiences understand not just how to recover from adversity, but how to grow through it. My talks focus on supporting mental health and wellbeing while offering practical strategies for overcoming life’s challenges. Drawing on real-world experiences from sport, military service, and living with diabetes, I share honest, relatable lessons that inspire individuals and organisations to build strength, perspective, and lasting positive change.

David Jarvis standing next to his bike

What’s in the name?

Speaking SBC was born from the term Scaley Back Cyclist, which David was endearingly known as by his military colleagues.

Scaley Backs was the nickname given to The Royal Signals.  The name allegedly comes from WW2 radio operators, who would develop scale-like skin on their backs due to leaking battery acid from the radio packs they carried.

David was a Foreman of Signals in the British Army, with a passion for cycling, hence the name Scaley Back Cyclist!

Speaking SBC

Pitmedden School & Nursery

Kim King, Parent

“Abby was so excited about (David’s school visit) and came home and told us all about it. I was so impressed by what she managed to recall, so looked into David. What a truly inspirational man.”

David Jarvis, Invictus Games 2023 Gold Medallist, stands beside his bright orange bike

Mission Connect

Vivien Rae, Evoke Marketing

“David attended Mission Connect, a community engagement event hosted by Banff Academy and Evoke Marketing, where he inspired visitors with his passion and enthusiasm for cycling, sharing insights into his unwavering dedication and commitment to achieve success in the face of adversity.”

Live Life Aberdeenshire

Yvonne O’Neil, Head Teacher, Port Errol Primary School

“David spent the day inspiring all of our young people to always do their best. Each class were engaged and enthusiastic as David tailored each session to their interests. A motivating day for both staff and pupils.”

Pitmedden School & Nursery

“David Jarvis who won the Invictus Games Cycling Event 2023 came to visit us during Health Fortnight. The children all got to ask questions, see a presentation, see the gold medal in the flesh, and see the bike he won the medal on which he kindly took in to the school. A truly inspirational man and the children thoroughly enjoyed their afternoon with him.”

Rotary Club of Banff

Andy Simpson, Member

“We were delighted to work with David on a fundraising dinner and auction for Diabetes Scotland and Rotary. Through describing his own personal journey, David’s thoughtful and honest presentation at the meal not only encouraged a great generosity from those who were there, but also sensitively raised awareness of diabetes and the support available. His message left a lasting impression on all. So much so that months later, people are still reflecting on what they learnt that evening.”