A man giving a presentation or speech, holding a remote control in his right hand, wearing a light gray blazer and black shirt, with a microphone headset, standing against a dark background.

mark hughes oam

Mark Hughes is an engaging and inspirational speaker whose journey resonates deeply with audiences of all kinds. A former professional rugby league player, Mark was a key member of two premiership-winning teams with the Newcastle Knights and proudly represented New South Wales in State of Origin.

In 2013, at just 36 years old, Mark faced a life-altering diagnosis of high-grade brain cancer — a disease with no cure and limited treatment advancement for decades. Refusing to be defined by his diagnosis, he co-founded the Mark Hughes Foundation, which has since raised over $35 million to fund brain cancer research and provide hope and support for countless families across Australia.

A story that inspires, Mark’s presentations are a masterclass in storytelling — tracing his journey from a small Hunter Valley town to elite sport, and through to confronting life’s most challenging moments with courage and purpose.

Audiences laugh, reflect, and leave motivated by Mark’s powerful mantra: Make Today Count. His message centres on resilience, gratitude, and living with intent, delivering practical and deeply human takeaways that stay with audiences long after the event.

Available for:

  • Keynote speaking (corporate, sporting, and community events)

  • Leadership and resilience presentations

  • Charity events

  • Sporting club functions

  • Motivational school and youth talks

  • Gala dinners and award nights

work with mark
work with mark