How Investing In Greatness became a movement.
What started as a dream shared by three young leaders has grown into an ecosystem of mentors, advisors and members shaping Australia’s future.
The spark
Investing In Greatness (IIG) began when co-founders Jean Mike Jabo, Hani Hamid and Duku Forè looked around their communities and saw extraordinary ideas without the structures to hold them. They had already proven their ability to mobilise support—organising a fundraiser for Haitian disaster relief and other community initiatives—but governance, networks and resources felt out of reach.
This changed when Duku connected with Dr Jim Rawson OAM, a seasoned executive who recognised the vision. Jim invited Dr Matthew Turnour FAICD, an expert in governance and charity law, to provide guidance. Together they encouraged the founders to think bigger and build something that could last.
Following a suggestion from Dr Turnour, the team explored partnerships with the Brisbane Lions before turning to the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). On 17 July 2018, twelve young leaders gathered at the AICD Queensland office alongside professionals Jim, Matthew, Evelyn Omala, David Martin, Jeremy Walker and Helen Winter to imagine what a new kind of leadership enterprise could look like.
That day planted the seed for Investing In Greatness: a place where multicultural young people could receive the kind of support, governance and opportunity that would usually be reserved for established organisations.
Milestones that shaped us
The founding trio run community fundraisers and student projects, seeing first-hand the challenges youth-led initiatives face without governance support.
A facilitated session at the Australian Institute of Company Directors identifies the skills and structures needed to support a new generation of multicultural leaders. The first cohort and core advisory council are formed.
Members focus on identity and storytelling, launching the Investor Nexus of alumni and advisors.
The program expands to include AICD governance intensives led by Dr Matthew Turnour FAICD, empowering members to prototype ventures.
Collaboration with advisors from business, government and the for-purpose sector results in new sponsorship pathways and community projects.
Alumni lead social enterprises, sit on boards, facilitate Investor Nexus circles and continue mentoring emerging cohorts.
Who stands with us
- Advisors with decades of legal, governance, philanthropic and enterprise experience.
- Members bringing expertise in law, health, communications, the arts and more.
- Partners willing to co-create tailored opportunities with and for our community.
Why we keep going
Research shows that investing in youth leadership doesn’t just change individual trajectories—it transforms the systems around them. Every cohort strengthens the collective, creating new opportunities for those who follow.
The partnership between founders, members and advisors is the heart of IIG. We listen, adapt and build together—ensuring our governance stays strong while our programming remains culturally safe, daring and relevant.
From learning to legacy
Today, Investing In Greatness stands as a living example of what happens when young leaders are trusted with resources, networks and responsibility. Alumni are leading social enterprises, advising government, writing books, creating art and returning as mentors.
The story continues with every new member who steps into the circle. As we grow, we remain anchored to our original purpose: support multicultural leaders to thrive and, in turn, transform the communities they love.
Help us write the next chapter of Investing In Greatness
We’re ready to partner with mentors, funders and allies who believe in the power of multicultural leadership.