By: Wyles Daniel
At 16 years old, Rugare Gomo left Zimbabwe with a backpack, a small amount of money, and a determination to create a future. Arriving in Australia on his own, he began a journey that would take him from modest beginnings to working with billion-dollar companies. Today, as a black, gay motivational speaker and leadership coach, Gomo’s life reflects a commitment to helping others embrace their individuality and find their way in a challenging world.
Challenging Expectations in Leadership
“Being a pioneer is easy, just be yourself” – Rugare Gomo
The corporate world often has unspoken rules about who fits in. Gomo has built a career showing that there’s space for everyone. As one of the few gay, black business leaders in Australia, he speaks from experience when he encourages others to stay true to themselves. As a leadership coach, Gomo helps people build lives and careers based on their values rather than societal expectations.
His memoir, Dreams: Forging my Own Path, a first for an African-Australian gay black man, brings attention to the complexities of his journey and provides readers with relatable insights. Through his story, Gomo invites others to explore what authenticity can mean in leadership and everyday life.
Overcoming Barriers with Determination
“I was born free, but it was the world who told me I couldn’t Be” – Rugare Gomo
Gomo’s path has been marked by obstacles that require creative solutions. Due to citizenship restrictions, he was barred from applying to law firms, so he forged his own way forward in the legal and corporate worlds. These experiences shaped his approach to leadership, making him an advocate for those facing systemic challenges in their lives.
Gomo has worked with startups and global companies as a trained lawyer and business strategist. His focus on practical strategies and personal accountability enables his clients to navigate obstacles and create meaningful progress in their careers.
A Vision Rooted in Empowerment
“Education without Empowerment is the same as having no education at all. Are you Empowered?” – Rugare Gomo
Gomo’s work is driven by the belief that everyone has the potential to lead in their own way. As a motivational speaker, he aims to create spaces where individuals feel equipped to take control of their stories. Whether through coaching, speaking engagements, or upcoming projects like books and online resources, he focuses on expanding access to tools and perspectives that support personal growth.
His work resonates with a wide range of audiences, from executives to those just starting out. By encouraging reflection and ownership, Gomo helps others discover what leadership looks like for them.
Building a Life of Authenticity
“My Legacy is simple. Just be Me” – Rugare Gomo
From coming out as gay to navigating spaces where he has often been the only black man in the room, Gomo has consistently prioritized staying true to himself. His story serves as a reminder that creating a path that reflects your values and identity is possible.
Gomo envisions a future filled with more opportunities to share his insights. Whether speaking to leaders or working with individuals seeking guidance, his goal remains the same: to offer perspectives that encourage others to approach life with clarity and purpose.
Through his work, Rugare Gomo shows that leadership is deeply personal. As a black businessman, motivational speaker, and leadership coach, he encourages others to shape their lives and careers in authentic and sustainable ways.
