From premiership glory to purpose-driven advocacy, Mark Hughes is a true game-changer.

A former professional rugby league star, Mark spent a decade with the Newcastle Knights, helping secure historic premiership wins in 1997 and 2001 and proudly representing New South Wales in the State of Origin.

In 2013, life threw Mark a brutal curveball: a diagnosis of high-grade brain cancer at just 36. But instead of stepping back, he stepped up. He co-founded the Mark Hughes Foundation together with his wife, which has since raised over $35 million to fund brain cancer research and bring hope to thousands of families.

His iconic Beanie for Brain Cancer campaign has become a national movement, rallying the rugby league community and Australians everywhere behind a vital cause.

Join Mark for an unmissable keynote session where he’ll explore how resilience and optimism can fuel success across the social good sector. From the footy field to the frontlines of brain cancer advocacy, Mark’s journey is a powerful reminder that purpose can rise from adversity. No matter your role, you’ll leave this session energised, inspired, and ready to lead with confidence.