Our Motivational Speaker

MICHAEL DUNCAN JR.

Born and raised in the Windy City (Chicago)—specifically a neighborhood where survival often overshadows dreams—I’ve lived through experiences that many only hear about in passing. It’s the kind of place where the streetlights come on, but safety doesn't. Where being numb to sirens, gunshots, and grief becomes second nature. But even in the darkest places, there are sparks of hope—and I believe I’m one of them.

I grew up watching the men in my family move through the chaos like they were invincible. My dad, my uncles, my older cousins—they knew the rules of the streets like the back of their hands. I didn’t understand how or why they walked with such fearlessness, but I now know it was survival. Culture. Routine. Trauma dressed up as normal.

At 9 years old, I watched my uncle get shot at point-blank range. I saw him fall, and I thought I saw death. I ran to get help, only to find that by the time we got back, he was on his feet. By the grace of God, he survived with just a graze. But the imprint it left on me was permanent. That moment could’ve easily turned me toward revenge and the streets. But instead, it sparked something different—purpose.

I made a decision then: I wasn’t going to be another statistic. I wasn’t going to let anger guide me. Instead, I was going to be a voice, a storyteller, and a bridge to help others escape the cycle. That’s why I’m proud to be part of Time To Evolve Coalition (T-TEC)—because we’re not just talking about change, we’re walking it out in our communities every day.

Through T-TEC, I share my truth—not because it’s easy, but because it can save lives. My hope is that others will see their own story in mine and realize they, too, can evolve. We’re all one decision away from life or death, freedom or a cell. So I invite you to stand with us. Help us reach people before the streets do.

Let’s make impact happen—together.