Helping young people change their lives and avoid jail, death or deportation...
"I think my inspiration came from wanting to help young people, particularly young men, at the time - that grew up in the same way that I grew up - see an alternative way out. I didn't think there was anything at the time, that could help those individuals that were in the thick of it.... everything else was always going to tell them to go back to school, and to start again, start afresh" - Duro Oye
(Want to read a full written for reading transcript version of this episode? Download it here.)
Who is Duro Oye?
Duro Oye is a social entrepreneur and award-winning CEO who is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in the UK workforce.
As the head of 2020 Change, a leading social enterprise, Duro uses training programs, mentorship, and career support to empower young black professionals and help them succeed in their careers.
His passion for community and commitment to excellence drive him to bring about real and sustained change for these young professionals.
In addition to his work with 2020 Change, Duro is a skilled storyteller who uses the power of documentary film to give a voice to marginalized youth.
Since creating his first independent film project in 2013, he has worked with major broadcasters like the BBC and Channel 5 to bring important stories to life.
As a qualified mind-set coach with a degree in Graphics and Advertising and a diploma in Documentary Filmmaking, Duro brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his work. He is also a fellow at the Acumen Academy, where he continues to develop his skills and knowledge.
What is 2020 Change?
2020 Change is a social enterprise that is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the UK workforce.
The organisation works to empower young black professionals by providing them with training programs, mentorship, and career support.
Through these efforts, 2020 Change aims to bring about clear and sustained change for these young professionals and create a more diverse and inclusive workforce in the UK.
One of the key programs offered by 2020 Change is the "I AM CHANGE" program, a 12-week course that focuses on developing young people in four key areas: self-awareness, vision, persistence, and dignity.
The program also covers topics such as financial literacy, digital skills, and mindfulness that are not taught in schools.
In addition to its training programs, 2020 Change is also committed to transparency and excellence in all of its work.
The organisation's dedication to these values has earned it numerous awards and recognition as a leader in the field of diversity and inclusion.
Duro's origins in acting!
Duro Oye originally wanted to be an actor and had an agent that was going to help him pursue that dream.
He took his drama GCSE very seriously in secondary school and was determined to succeed in the subject.
However, his mother was not supportive of his dream and called a family meeting to try and persuade him to go to university instead.
As is a common theme with many of our guests that regular listeners to Everyday Leadership will recognise!
Listen to the episode to learn whether Duro's mother got her wish or not.
Key leadership learning moments (timestamps)
01m40s: Young Duro and his acting aspirations.
05m15s: What was it about acting that drew Duro in?
20m32s: What was the importance of telling transformational stories?
25m20s: Overcoming the fear
32m06s: More on building the foundations of change
40m08s: "Why would they listen to me?"
46m15s: Major lessons taught by young people
54m47s: What does leadership mean to Duro Oye?
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