Speaker Profile Thumbnail for John Bul Dau

Lost Boy of Sudan featured in the Film, God Grew Tired of Us

John Bul Dau Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Lost Boy of Sudan featured in the Film, God Grew Tired of Us

Speaker Profile Thumbnail for John Bul Dau
Speaking Fee:
$10,000 to $20,000

Travels From:
Contact Us for Primary Airport

Primary Topic Category:
Inspiration / Motivation / Overcoming Obstacles

Secondary Topic Category:
Philanthropy

 

John Bul Dau Speaker Profile: At A Glance

Born in war-torn South Sudan, John was just 13 when he faced starvation, disease and violence as one of 27,000 boys driven from their villages during the country’s brutal civil war in 1987. Bravely leading displaced boys across Sudan for hundreds of miles, he eventually arrived in Kenya, and immigrated to the U.S. in 2001. Today, John is president of both the John Dau Foundation (JDF) and the South Sudan Institute (SSI). He is an influential part of many efforts to bring hope and peace to the people of South Sudan, founding four nonprofits and raising over $3 million to build and run the Duk Lost Boys Clinic in his village of Duk Payu.

John Bul Dau is a testament to resilience, leadership, and the power of education in transforming lives. Born in the heart of war-torn Sudan, John was among the “Lost Boys,” a group of over 20,000 young refugees. Fleeing civil conflict, he endured harrowing conditions and a perilous journey across the wilderness. His path was marked by hunger, thirst, and the constant threat of violence, yet it was also shaped by camaraderie and a fierce determination to survive. In 2001, John had the opportunity to resettle in the United States, a pivotal turning point. Embracing this chance, he pursued education with unparalleled dedication, eventually earning his degree in Public Policy at Syracuse University. His experiences and insights soon propelled him to become a sought-after speaker. He shared his journey of survival and triumph over adversity, inspiring countless people worldwide. Through storytelling, John not only recounts past struggles but also instills hope and motivation in his audiences. John's impact extends beyond his speaking engagements. He has channeled his ambition and compassion into philanthropy, founding the John Dau Foundation, which provides healthcare services to South Sudan. Through this work, John addresses critical needs in his homeland, bridging worlds and fostering a spirit of global community. His foundation has been instrumental in improving health outcomes, demonstrating how one individual’s vision can incite change. His life story is poignantly captured in the acclaimed documentary "God Grew Tired of Us," where John's journey is detailed with authenticity and grace. The film serves as both a reminder of the human cost of conflict and a celebration of the indomitable human spirit. John's journey from a refugee to a figure of hope and leadership resonates deeply, underscoring the themes of perseverance and empowerment. John Bul Dau continues to inspire through his dedication to improving lives, advocating for peace, and fostering understanding across cultures. His life is a powerful illustration of how hardship can be transformed into impactful leadership and advocacy. Through his work, John proves that with perseverance, dreams can transcend boundaries and ignite change in the world.
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