Transforming Lives - Mark Williams
Mark Williams PLY is a former Paralympic swimmer and medallist, and the founder of LIMB-art - a company producing unique and fun prosthetic leg covers. Studying at Bangor University’s North Wales Business Academy supported Mark’s work with LIMB-art, helping to expand his network and increasing his confidence in his business decisions.
Mark’s life took a significant turn in June 1982 when he lost his left leg in an accident while riding his bike home from school. This event marked the beginning of a transformative journey for him.
Over the next eight years, Mark evolved from a shy 10-year-old boy who couldn't swim into a super-confident athlete. He achieved remarkable success in swimming, winning medals at the 1988 Seoul Paralympics and the 1989 Miami World Championships. His athletic career taught him the importance of focusing on capabilities rather than limitations, striving for perfection, and taking pride in oneself.
Inspired by a child who admired the cool, LED-lit green cover he made for his prosthetic leg, Mark decided to give back to the community. In 2018, he and his wife Rachael founded LIMB-art, a company dedicated to producing unique and fun prosthetic leg covers. Their mission is to help prosthetic users boost their confidence, be proud of their prosthetics, and enjoy showing them off. LIMB-art stands as a testament to Mark's journey and his commitment to positively impacting the lives of others.
Mark went on to study at Bangor University’s North Wales Business Academy – becoming the first in his family to attend university. Studying at the University gave Mark much greater confidence in his decisions as his results backed up what he ‘thought’ he knew from 25 years in corporate business. In addition to that, the course helped him to connect with others and grow his personal and business network, as the vast majority of business leaders come through the academic route.
Mark’s company LIMB-art has received several accolades, including, most recently, the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise.
In July 2024, Mark was awarded an honorary Doctorate in Business Administration by Bangor University.