Duku Forè, GAICD, is a distinguished international speaker, an author of two books, and 2-time TEDx Speaker. From making his first motivational video in his bathroom—viewed only three times, by his siblings — Duku has since inspired millions worldwide with his speeches, encouraging countless individuals to pursue their dreams. He is also a United Nations delegate, having represented Australia at the UN Headquarters in New York, showcasing his dedication to global leadership and change.
Duku is the Founder of Rich
Dreams, a pioneering platform that provides a safe space for people to share their success journeys, build valuable connections, and work toward achieving their dreams. Additionally, he founded HnH
Wholesalers, a leading supplier for the hotel and hospitality industry.
As a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors' Company Directors Course, Duku holds the post-nominal GAICD, underscoring his expertise in finance, strategy, governance, and risk management. His insights into leadership and strategy have led to frequent invitations to address senior executives, challenging them to embrace a global perspective.
Duku also served on the Policy Committee of the Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association
(PMSA) contributing to the governance of prominent Queensland schools, including Brisbane Boys' College and Somerville House. His events have drawn national and international audiences, highlighting his influence as a leader and connector.
Through the Duku Forè Foundation
, Duku empowers individuals and organizations to actualize their dreams, fostering pathways to more fulfilling lives. He studied his dual degree in Business (Management) and Law (Honours) at Queensland University of Technology.
Duku Forè's Story:
Duku Forè was born with a speech impediment and raised in a refugee camp as one of eight children. In 2007, he and his family immigrated to Brisbane, Australia, on a refugee visa, where they faced a new world of challenges. Arriving with limited English skills—his vocabulary consisting of just one word, "YES"—Duku struggled in school, facing language barriers and occasional bullying. Unable to communicate well, he was often misunderstood, leading to conflicts that eventually resulted in his expulsion.
Realizing the impact of his choices, Duku decided to forge a new path, choosing to focus on growth, resilience, and self-improvement. Determined to overcome these early challenges, he began working on his dream of public speaking. His journey started humbly, practicing speeches in his bathroom. While it wasn’t a glamorous beginning, Duku’s motto was clear: "You don’t need to be great to start, but you need to start to be great." This belief fueled his determination and resilience, inspiring him to keep moving forward despite his early struggles.
In a short time, Duku transformed from a young immigrant struggling with English to an international speaker. His speaking engagements have taken him to conferences, schools, and events worldwide. He was even selected as an Australian delegate to the United Nations Youth Assembly at the UN Headquarters in New York—a powerful milestone in his journey.
This belief to simply attack your goals
Duku’s passion for personal growth and learning sets him apart, drawing others who share his vision. Known for his ability to accomplish whatever he sets his mind to, he inspires others to pursue their dreams with unwavering confidence. As Duku often says, he aims to take people “to the corners of their smile, to the heights of their hopes, to the windows of their opportunities, and to the most special places their heart has ever been.”
Duku is available for media inquiries, speaking engagements, and select assignments. His book, The Poor Kid With Rich Dreams, tells his inspiring story in full, offering readers a chance to share in his journey of discovering and realizing his "rich dreams."
