Giles Duley, founder of  the Legacy of War Foundation, tells his powerful life story

Giles Duley, founder of the Legacy of War Foundation, tells his powerful life story

Author: Caroline Diehl January 12, 2021 Duration: 57:12

Giles's reaction to unimaginable physical and mental trauma has been to become a social founder, setting up the global Legacy of War Foundation using his award-winning photography and media skills to document, and counteract, the legacy of war across the world.


Giles' physical and mental resilience are like nothing I have seen or heard before. In this episode of Social Founder Stories you'll hear how throughout his life, Giles has responded to adversity to create impact, but in particular, how stepping on an IED in Afghanistan, left him desperately fighting for his life for 47 days in intensive care, and then 18 months' rehabilitation, after the loss of both legs and his left arm.

No-one expected him to survive those horrendous injuries, let alone to find the drive to continue to work and to travel, using his professional skills and his determination to create high-level positive social impact, setting up and growing his Foundation.


Giles talks in-depth about the work of international NGOs, the power of photography to create impact, and his work in Syria, Africa, Cambodia and Afghanistan, woven into his personal journey leading to his founding of the Legacy of War Foundation, his gruelling recovery from his injuries in 2011, his learnings and values.


You will hear little from me in this interview. Giles tells his powerful story and I listen, moved and amazed at his courage.

Donate to the Legacy of War Foundation here if you can.

Follow Giles:

Twitter: @GilesDuley

Instagram: @GilesDuley

Facebook: @Giles.Duley


Listen to Giles' founder story in the Social Founder Stories podcast series, Episode 4 - on all podcast platforms. Enjoy, and send us your feedback.

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Caroline Diehl hosts Social Founder Stories, a series of conversations that go beyond the typical business success narrative. Here, the focus is on the human engine behind social innovation-the founders who channel their entrepreneurial spirit into tackling cultural and societal issues. Each episode delves into the personal journeys of these leaders, exploring not just their strategies for creating measurable impact, but also the less-discussed realities: the moments of doubt, the logistical hurdles, and the resilience required to push through. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of how a passion evolves into a sustainable venture, and how challenges are reframed as opportunities for growth. This podcast sits at the unique intersection of society, business, and culture, offering a grounded look at what it truly takes to build an enterprise aimed at bettering our world. The discussions are candid and detailed, providing both inspiration and practical insight for anyone curious about the mechanics of change. Tune in for stories that highlight the creativity, drive, and profound humanity of those building a more thoughtful future.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 10

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