Cumbria Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce Sara Murray as the latest confirmed speaker for Conference Cumbria 2026, bringing an inspiring message of courage, inclusion and the transformative power of adventure to this year’s event.
Taking place on Thursday October 1 at the Pencil Factory in Keswick, Conference Cumbria will once again bring together hundreds of business leaders, entrepreneurs and decision-makers from across the county for a day focused on bold thinking, fresh perspectives and meaningful connections.
Sara is the training and research manager at Beyond Bendrigg, part of the Bendrigg Trust, an accessible outdoor centre in Cumbria that has spent more than 45 years working to make the outdoors accessible to all.
Her session, Beyond Boundaries – Creating Change, One Adventure at a Time, will explore how adventure can improve confidence, enhance wellbeing and strengthen our connection not only with nature, but with each other.
The announcement is another exciting addition to Conference Cumbria 2026, which this year carries the theme Be Bold. Be Courageous.
Drawing on Bendrigg’s pioneering work in inclusive outdoor experiences, Sara will challenge delegates to think differently about adventure and accessibility, demonstrating how everyone can choose their own Everest and how bold thinking can create opportunities that benefit entire communities.
Lesley Robinson, head of business growth & support at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Sara to the Conference Cumbria 2026 speaker line-up.
“Her work at Beyond Bendrigg perfectly embodies this year’s theme of being bold and courageous, showing how challenging assumptions and embracing new perspectives can create lasting positive change.
“Sara’s session promises to inspire delegates to think differently about leadership, inclusion and resilience, while demonstrating the incredible impact that courage and collaboration can have on both individuals and organisations.”
Sara added: “At Bendrigg we believe that adventure is not reserved for a few, it belongs to all of us. When we create spaces where everyone can participate, grow and belong, we unlock potential far beyond what we imagined. Being bold isn’t just about stepping forward yourself, it’s about making sure no one is left behind.”
Conference Cumbria has grown significantly over recent years and now attracts delegates from across Cumbria and beyond, with ambitions to welcome up to 350 attendees in 2026.
This year’s event will feature headline speaker Sir Clive Woodward alongside a growing programme of inspiring speakers, panel discussions and networking opportunities designed to support business growth, leadership and innovation.
Recent speaker announcements have also included Lou Kneath, whose session When Pigs Fly: The Courage to Believe in Impossible Things will explore creativity, resilience and the courage to back bold ideas.
A limited number of sponsorship opportunities and tickets remain available for businesses looking to align themselves with one of the region’s most prominent business events.
