Ron’s Story

Hi, I’m Ron Forlee, the founder of Wise Friends. As an architect and property developer, I’ve spent much of my career developing retirement and aged care projects. But my passion for creating Wise Friends is deeply personal. It’s born from a profound understanding of seniors’ unique needs and aspirations. 

Ron Forlee, Founder & CEO Wise Friends

The Birth of Wise Friends

Six years ago, I lost my wife to cancer. Like many couples, we had envisioned spending our retirement years together, embracing the joys and challenges of this stage in life. Her passing left a void that was not just emotional but profoundly isolating. For the first time, I truly understood the meaning of loneliness—a reality many seniors face after losing a soulmate.

Seeking connection, I turned to platforms like Facebook. But my experience there was far from fulfilling. I was bombarded with scammers and even had my identity stolen. It struck me that seniors like me deserved better—a secure, trustworthy space where we could connect, share, and find companionship without fear or frustration. In 2022, this realisation inspired me to create Wise Friends.

Wise Friends is a sanctuary for seniors, and it’s not just a large community; it’s a community tailored to you. I discovered how diverse and dynamic our generation truly is during my research. Baby boomers have many interests and needs, from health and wellness to financial planning, travel, and hobbies. Over the past 10 months, Wise Friends has become a hub for these topics, with articles, videos, and even an AI chatbot designed to provide personalised support. We’re now working on introducing AI Telehealth to address a critical concern for many seniors—healthcare.

So, why am I so passionate about Wise Friends? As a senior, I know our challenges, but I also see the opportunities. I stay positive by staying physically active—running every second day and weightlifting on alternate days—and mentally sharp by writing books and mentoring the younger generation. These practices keep me engaged and inspired; I believe they can do the same for others.

Join Wise Friends, Empower Your Life

Wise Friends is more than a website; it’s a movement to empower seniors to live fulfilling, connected lives. Whether you want to make new friends, learn new skills, or tackle life’s challenges together, this platform supports you.

Joining Wise Friends is simple. Fill out a brief form, and you’re in. I invite you to explore Wise Friends, share your stories, and join a community that understands you.

Let’s make these years some of the best of our lives—together.