For the past decade, author Brad Borkan explored the lives of extraordinary individuals – explorers (Shackleton), innovators (Wright Brothers), engineers (Brunel), reformers (Susan B. Anthony),  and others – who shaped the last two centuries in some way.

In this entertaining talk, Brad reveals the 11 common traits that propelled these figures to greatness.

Booking information

  • Advance booking for this event is required. In order to book you will need an account on our website. If you already have an account you will be prompted to log in when you click 'book now'. Please create an account if you do not have one yet (you do not need to be a member of the Society to create an account).

Attending in-person

  • We do not issue tickets (electronic or physical) for this event. Instead your name will be on a list at the door. Please use the Society's entrance on Exhibition Road.

Attending online

  • If you are attending the event online, the joining instructions will be included in your confirmation email.

If you have any questions or require assistance with your booking, please email events@rgs.org

Venue information

This event will be held in the Education Centre at Royal Geographical Society (with IBG), 1 Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AR.

 

Plan your visit to the Society and find more information about our venue, including our address, accessibility and transport links.

Accessibility at our events

We want everyone to feel welcome at our events. Key accessibility features of this event include:

  • Step-free access to the event
  • Accessible toilets
  • Assistance dogs are welcome
  • Hearing loop

For full details, please visit our accessibility page. If you have any questions or specific access requirements, feel free to get in touch with us on access@rgs.org

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Key Information

Open to all
17 November 2025, 2.30pm-3.45pm
London and online

In-person
Non-member £0.00, Member £0.00
Online
Non-member £0.00, Member £0.00
Book Now