Linda Cruse

Linda has spent the last two decades living among people in the most distressed places on earth, from the snowy Himalayas to the deserts of the Sahara and in the aftermath of tsunamis, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes and typhoons. Linda has worked with survivors in refugee camps and war zones, has escaped from a rebel army, been held at gunpoint, caught in a landslide, survived severe hypothermia and even sutured her own face.

She has been described as a mix between Gertrude Bell and Indiana Jones, and her achievements have led her to be recognised as the 12th most powerful woman changing the world today. 

Linda is a network weaver, inspiring the support of people such as H.H The Dalai Lama, HRH The Prince of Wales and Sir Richard Branson, and mobilising their influence to help solve the most critical social, environmental and humanitarian problems around the world. Linda’s work has inspired people from presidents and ambassadors to students, politicians, admirals and CEOs worldwide to become a force for good.

Over 20 years ago, a traumatic experience dramatically changed her direction, led her to reassess her life, sell everything she owns and to this day she has few material possessions, only the contents of a single suitcase.

Linda has dedicated her life to facilitate business leaders and students worldwide to find creative and sustainable economic solutions that have the power to lift communities from the grip of poverty and from the depths of disaster.

Her approach is to assist in recovery through economic empowerment, matching a family’s skills with market opportunities and a business plan. It’s a hand up, not a handout.

Listening to Linda you will be immersed in a world of frontline adventure and misadventure by one of the most passionate, informed and articulate individuals. A wake-up call to be the best we can be, develop new concepts, uncover fresh ideas and discover our own purpose and passion in life.