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Derreck Kayongo
Founder of the Global Soap Project, Executive Director for Clean Production Action & Renowned Human Rights Activist
Derreck Kayongo
Founder of the Global Soap Project, Executive Director for Clean Production Action & Renowned Human Rights Activist
Biography
Derreck Kayongo's remarkable journey exemplifies the power of combining profit with purpose. As a successful entrepreneur, CEO, and renowned human rights activist, Derreck has demonstrated that businesses can thrive while making a positive impact on the world.
Through his visionary idea of the Global Soap Project, Derreck has shown that creative problem solving and keen observation can lead to innovative solutions that address global challenges. By collecting discarded and unused soap from hotels worldwide and redistributing it to communities in need, Derreck has not only built a successful humanitarian aid organization but has also tackled global health issues in 90 countries. This simple yet effective approach has led to a reduction in hygiene-related diseases and deaths in at-risk communities.
Derreck's inspiring story proves that profit and purpose can go hand in hand. He has leveraged his entrepreneurial spirit to create tangible change in the world, demonstrating that even small ideas can have a massive impact. His success has garnered international recognition, including being named a 2011 CNN Top Ten Hero and a 2014 TED Talks speaker.
As the former CEO of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Derreck further showcased his commitment to combining profit with purpose. He elevated the visibility of the Center on a global scale, highlighting stories of civil rights abuse and the heroic actions that changed the course of history. This work not only raised awareness but also contributed to the Center's financial sustainability.
Derreck's passion for helping others and his commitment to innovative thinking continues to inspire audiences worldwide. Through his powerful storytelling and infectious optimism, he empowers individuals and organizations to embrace the concept of "profit with a purpose." By following his S.E.L.F. principles of Service, Education, Leadership, and Faith, Derreck demonstrates that success and social responsibility are complementary forces that can drive positive change.
In a world where businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of corporate social responsibility, Derreck Kayongo stands as a shining example of how to balance profit with purpose. His tireless efforts to create a better world through entrepreneurship and humanitarianism serve as an inspiration for future generations of business leaders looking to make a difference.
Speaker Videos
Simple Solutions for Colossal Problems | Derreck Kayongo | TEDxCharleston
Speech Topics
Building a Legacy: Turning Passion into Purpose & Impact
What does it take to turn a simple idea into a lasting legacy? Derreck Kayongo’s Global Soap Project revolutionized the hotel industry and improved global health, demonstrating the power of purpose-driven innovation. In this transformative keynote, Derreck introduces his L.E.G.A.C.Y framework—Legendary Leadership, Eagle-eyed Focus, Unlocking Genius, Adaptability, Capacity to Synthesize, and You. By sharing his journey from refugee to visionary entrepreneur, Derreck inspires audiences to embrace their passions, overcome obstacles, and create meaningful legacies that outlast them.
Harnessing the Power of S.E.L.F.: A Blueprint for Social Impact & Leadership
From Ugandan refugee to successful entrepreneur, Derreck Kayongo’s journey is a testament to the power of Service, Education, Leadership, and Faith (S.E.L.F.). As founder of the Global Soap Project, Derreck turned a simple idea—recycling hotel soap—into a global movement improving hygiene and saving lives. In this inspiring presentation, he shares how personal accountability, team empowerment, and relentless faith can drive extraordinary outcomes. Perfect for leaders, innovators, and changemakers, this keynote offers a roadmap for transforming passion into impactful action.
The Corporate Moral Compass: Transforming Diversity into a Competitive Advantage
Discrimination in the workplace costs more than we realize—impacting morale, brand reputation, and even stock prices. Derreck Kayongo, former CEO of the Center for Civil and Human Rights and founder of the Global Soap Project, brings a fresh perspective to the importance of Diversity & Inclusion. In this compelling keynote, Derreck challenges organizations to develop a “Corporate Moral Aptitude,” a cultural intelligence akin to Emotional Intelligence but tailored to addressing unconscious bias and fostering inclusivity. Audiences will leave with actionable strategies to reimagine workplace culture, unlock innovation, and build a more inclusive future.
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