Watch Speaker

Bio

With his trademark panache, Derreck Kayongo tells his courageous story of survival, social entrepreneurship, and humanitarianism, and the life lessons he learned along the way. From Ugandan refugee to successful entrepreneur, CEO, and renowned human rights activist, Derreck’s journey inspires audiences to dream big.

Through personable and articulate storytelling, he shares his visionary ideas for harnessing the power of observation and creative problem solving, applicable to any organization or community. It’s all about taking responsibility while looking for opportunities to improve. Derreck is the founder of the Global Soap Project: a humanitarian aid organization that collects discarded and unused soap from thousands of hotels worldwide, reprocesses it, then distributes it to in-need populations around the world. The project was born from his simple observation about how much soap is available in hotels, and how much is thrown away when hotel rooms are turned. This simple observation became an innovative idea that is now battling global health issues in 90 countries. Hygiene-related diseases, and the resulting deaths, have dissipated in many at-risk communities, thanks in part to Derreck’s creative problem solving. His energy and enthusiasm are unmatched as he brings his stories and principles to life. Key factors of his personal and professional success are identified with the memorable acronym S.E.L.F.: Service, Education, Leadership and Faith.

He calls upon his dynamic experiences to empower audiences, inspiring an entrepreneur spirit made possible only through creative problem solving. Derreck’s emotionally-packed presentations linger long after his speech, empowering audiences to invent their own self-made motto of success so they can create tangible change in the world. Derreck’s passion for helping others and commitment to innovative thinking led him to the role of CEO of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

During his time as CEO, he elevated the global visibility of the Center, showcasing stories of victims of civil rights abuse and the heroic actions that changed the course of history. Derreck currently serves on the board of advisors at Sharing Sacred Spaces, an organization devoted to building local, sustainable inter religious communities working together for peace and civic change. Derreck Kayongo is an internationally recognized visionary and humanitarian. The Global Soap Project demonstrates his creativity and innovation, making him a leader in both global health and environmental sustainability.

Keynote Topics

Keynote #1 Building a Legacy: Turning Passion into Purpose and 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.

Keynote #2 : How to Harness Your Power to Create Change

In a world filled with uncertainty, injustice, and rapid transformation, each of us holds untapped power to make a difference.

In this dynamic and inspiring keynote, CNN Hero and global thought leader Dr. Derreck Kayongo shares his personal journey from a childhood as a refugee to becoming the founder of the Global Soap Project to illustrate how ordinary individuals can create extraordinary change.

Blending humor, storytelling, and practical insight, Dr. Kayongo explores the inner tools we all possess courage, resilience, empathy, and vision and how to activate them to become agents of positive disruption in our communities, organizations, and the world.

This talk will leave audiences motivated, equipped, and ready to stop waiting for change… and start becoming the change.

Key Takeaways:
Discover your unique power and influence in any environment
Learn strategies to overcome fear and resistance to change
Build a purpose-driven mindset for impact and leadership
Turn personal experiences into platforms for transformation

Perfect for corporate teams, nonprofit leaders, students, and changemakers of all backgrounds, this keynote is a call to action: to step into your purpose, speak your truth, and lead change with authenticity and boldness.

Keynote #3 : The Power of S.E.L.F.: Unlocking Service, Education, Leadership & Faith for Lasting Impact

What drives real, lasting change? In this powerful keynote, global humanitarian and CNN Hero Dr. Derreck Kayongo unpacks his remarkable journey from Ugandan refugee to visionary entrepreneur and founder of the Global Soap Project.

His formula for success is rooted in one transformative principle: S.E.L.F.—Service, Education, Leadership, and Faith.
With humor, authenticity, and unforgettable storytelling, Derreck reveals how tapping into the power of S.E.L.F. equips individuals and organizations to rise above adversity, lead with courage, and build movements that matter.

Whether you're a corporate leader, nonprofit trailblazer, or emerging changemaker, this talk delivers the tools and mindset you need to lead with heart and drive bold results.

Key Takeaways:
Activate the four pillars of S.E.L.F. to drive meaningful change
Transform challenges into opportunities through personal accountability and faith
Learn how to lead with both vision and vulnerability
Inspire your team and community through purpose-driven action

Call or text Neal at (720) 498 -3275 or email neal@infinitespeakers.com to place a calendar hold for Derreck or book him now for your next event.