The Duolingo English Test (DET) has unveiled a new digital campaign featuring Olympic and World Champion Neeraj Chopra, aimed at inspiring young Indian learners to pursue their global education goals with focus and determination.
Centered around the message “Dream. Practice. Win,” the campaign celebrates the shared journey of athletes and learners who strive to achieve excellence through consistent effort and unwavering discipline.
Conceptualised and produced by Kulfi Collective, the campaign kicked off with a hero film starring Neeraj Chopra and Duolingo’s iconic mascot, Duo, together in the training field. As they train together, the film gently reminds viewers that first attempts are rarely perfect. What truly matters is showing up every day and putting in the work.
“This campaign is deeply rooted in the belief that progress comes from showing up, again and again, even when it’s hard,” said Tara Kapur, India Market Lead, Duolingo English Test. “Neeraj’s journey perfectly captures the mindset of DET learners, ambitious, focused and determined to go global. Through this collaboration, we’re proud to highlight how the Duolingo English Test supports that spirit with an accessible, affordable and modern path to international education.”
Pourush Turel, Account Director, Kulfi Collective, said, “It was an exciting collaboration with a true blue Olympian. We wanted to draw powerful parallels to the journey of an athlete and that of a young student preparing to study abroad. Both these journeys demand determination, relentless practice and stepping out of our comfort zones. With Neeraj, Duolingo and the Duolingo English Test, we found the perfect balance of inspiration and relatability. This campaign brings that narrative to life in a way that feels honest, culturally rooted, and deeply relevant to young India.”
Kicking off the campaign was a reel released last week, where Chopra is seen hurling Duo like a javelin, throwing him past all known records and all the way to the moon. A light-hearted take on breaking records, the reel was a perfect blend of organic conversations and DET’s quirky take, serving as a teaser for the campaign film that followed.
Another key highlight of this collaboration was a special meet-and-greet and fireside chat with Neeraj Chopra and Duolingo English Test takers. Recounting his experience of moving abroad for training, Neeraj spoke about the challenges he faced and offered advice to students on how to navigate the changes that come with making such a big life decision.
