Jonny Benjamin MBE

Star of BAFTA-Nominated “The Stranger on the Bridge”, Founder of Beyond, Bestselling Author & Mental Health Advocate

Jonny Benjamin’s Biography:

Jonny Benjamin MBE is a globally recognised mental health advocate, documentary filmmaker, and author who has inspired millions by openly sharing his journey of recovery and survival. His powerful story centres on the moment in 2008 when he was saved from taking his own life by a stranger, Neil Laybourn, on Waterloo Bridge. Jonny’s subsequent search for this man, the viral “Find Mike” campaign, became a cultural phenomenon that fundamentally shifted public conversation around mental health.

The campaign and the reunion were chronicled in the BAFTA-nominated Channel 4 documentary, The Stranger on the Bridge. This established Jonny as a key voice in destigmatising mental illness, particularly among young people. He was subsequently appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his tireless services to mental health and suicide prevention, reflecting his impact both in the UK and internationally.

Jonny’s work is deeply rooted in his lived experience with schizoaffective disorder. He co-authored the best-selling book The Stranger on the Bridge and co-founded the consultancy Beyond Shame Beyond Stigma (BSBS), providing mental health training to corporate and public sector organisations. He is an active Patron for several mental health charities, demonstrating his commitment to advocacy beyond his own brand.

As a speaker, Jonny Benjamin delivers one of the most moving and authentic keynotes available today. He openly discusses themes of emotional vulnerability, psychosis, and the path to recovery, making his story accessible and educational. His talks are not just about crisis; they are about hope, recovery, and the extraordinary impact of human kindness. He powerfully translates his personal experience into a universal message on the importance of mental first aid, supportive leadership, and creating cultures where people feel safe to speak up.

Why Hire Jonny Benjamin?

Jonny Benjamin MBE delivers an unforgettable, powerful keynote on mental health, hope, and the impact of human connection. His story, famously documented in the BAFTA-nominated The Stranger on the Bridge, offers unparalleled authenticity on the themes of crisis and recovery. Ideal for corporate and education events, Jonny provides relatable, practical insight into fostering compassionate leadership, reducing stigma, and building resilient, psychologically safe cultures.

Jonny Benjamin’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Jonny Benjamin’s inspirational career highlights throughout the world of mental health:

• 2025 – Launched the “Heads Up” National Campaign aimed at improving mental health literacy and early intervention resources in UK schools.
• 2024 – Appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to mental health and suicide prevention.
• 2019 – Co-founded the consultancy Beyond Shame Beyond Stigma (BSBS) with Neil Laybourn, providing mental health training to organisations.
• 2018 – Co-authored the best-selling book, The Stranger on the Bridge, detailing his journey of crisis, the campaign, and his subsequent recovery.
• 2017 – The Channel 4 documentary, The Stranger on the Bridge, was nominated for a BAFTA Award, significantly amplifying his advocacy platform.
• 2016 – Appointed as a Young Minds Ambassador, supporting their work in children and young people’s mental health.
• 2014 – Launched the viral social media campaign, “Find Mike,” which successfully located Neil Laybourn, the stranger who saved his life.
• 2008 – Intervened on Waterloo Bridge by a stranger while experiencing a mental health crisis, an event that became the catalyst for his advocacy work.