Tyrell Williams

Tyrell has dedicated over 20 years to community work, drawing from his own upbringing in the projects of St. Louis to fuel his determination to give back. Understanding the challenges of poverty from an early age, he transformed his anger into passion and motivation to ensure that other children didn't endure similar hardships.

Despite facing resistance from government entities, Tyrell persevered in his advocacy efforts, notably in advocating for the 21st Century Schools campaign. His advocacy played a pivotal role in the construction of 14 out of 16 schools within five years, significantly impacting the education landscape of the community.

Recognizing the barriers individuals face due to background checks, Tyrell actively engages with those involved in illegal activities, connecting them with support services to break the cycle of incarceration and poverty. He emphasizes the importance of educating youth about historical injustices and systemic inequalities, founding Turn Around Tuesday at Zion Baptist Church to provide a platform for youth to share their experiences and find support.