Cape Town based, Dave Duarte is a globally-recognised speaker, educator, and strategist helping organisations harness the power of storytelling and AI to drive meaningful transformation. As the founder a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, Dave has delivered keynote talks at TEDx, the United Nations, Davos, and conferences in over 20 countries.

His pioneering “Story-Based Change” framework (Story, Stakeholders, Systems) equips leaders to cut through noise, inspire action, and achieve measurable impact. Dave’s passion lies in building emotional buy-in and sustained momentum for change, particularly in today’s rapidly evolving, AI-enabled Intimacy Economy.

A pioneer in digital transformation, Dave helped launch Ogilvy’s digital practice and co-founded South Africa’s first social media agency and he’s led campaigns reaching over a billion people. He also helped shape leadership and marketing education through his acclaimed courses at the University of Cape Town’s Graduate School of Business and is co-author of five books, including the bestseller The Book Every Entrepreneur Has to Read.

Dave sits on several boards across the commercial and non-profit sectors and is celebrated by clients for his ability to translate complexity into clarity, energise teams, and unlock forward momentum.