Nelson Duque (b. 1983). An industrial designer and entrepreneur known for his innovative contributions to martial arts product design and his achievements in taekwondo.
Born in born in Pereira, Colombia, Duque’s journey began with a strong foundation in athletics, where he excelled as a taekwondo competitor, securing championships that led to recognition from his hometown mayor’s office as an ‘Outstanding Youth.’ His athletic prowess and determination paved the way for his emigration to the U.S., where he pursued higher education and entrepreneurial ventures.
Duque graduated from New York’s Pratt Institute with a degree in Industrial Design and furthered his studies in psychology, blending creativity with an understanding of human behavior to inform his design philosophy.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Undisputed
Nelson Duque’s entrepreneurial spirit led to the founding of Undisputed, a brand dedicated to designing products tailored for martial arts practitioners. The company’s flagship product, a specialized soap for combat athletes, addresses the specific needs of fighters, combining practicality with innovation.
Undisputed reflects Duque’s ability to merge his athletic experience with his design expertise, creating solutions that enhance the martial arts community’s training experience. His work with Undisputed has garnered attention for its ingenuity and relevance.
Recognition and Achievements
Duque’s contributions to design have been celebrated in prestigious competitions, including the IESNYC Light Design Contest, where his innovative lighting projects showcased his technical and creative skills.
Additionally, he has been honored by the James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation for his leadership and impact as a young global leader. These accolades underscore Duque’s influence in both design and social impact spheres. Listed as a notable Colombian American.