Early Life & Values
Born August 9, 2000, at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Pontiac, Michigan, Jeremiah was raised in a loving two-parent household grounded in faith and love. The guiding belief woven through every aspect of family life was simple but profound: "Every day you wake, know that your life is not about you. It's about the love and compassion for others." Though the family faced financial hardship at times, there was never a shortage of support, encouragement, or togetherness.
Roots in Pontiac
Growing up across several Pontiac neighborhoods gave Jeremiah a deep, personal connection to the city. During Pontiac's Emergency Manager era, he recognized firsthand how limited opportunities could be for young people — and that recognition planted the seed for everything that followed.
Youth Council & Civic Leadership (2016)
In 2016, Jeremiah was invited to a youth engagement meeting where he proposed creating a Youth Council for the city. He was unanimously selected as Pontiac's Youth Council President. The council wasn’t passed by ordinance, but still was a key to youth engagement. From that platform, he created the concepts of The Jam Session; a community event that brought together residents, artists, vendors, elected officials, and basketball leagues in a shared celebration of community.
Advocacy & Growth (2016–2019)
Recognized as a youth advocate, Jeremiah spoke at youth summits in California and participated in conferences across Michigan, consistently promoting youth involvement in leadership and government. His voice became a bridge between young people and the institutions meant to serve them.
Return & Renewal (2025)
After leaving Pontiac in 2021, Jeremiah returned in May 2025 with a renewed sense of purpose. He reconnected with local leaders working on revitalization efforts and joined the campaign of a council at-large candidate, reinforcing his belief that "lasting change comes through collective action."
The Foundation
Today, Jeremiah channels his family values, community experience, and years of leadership into The Williams Way Foundation. Inspired by his parents and his church home, Door Of Faith Ministries, he is committed to giving back to Pontiac and other communities the same love, guidance, support, and encouragement he received growing up and to helping ensure that every person has access to the support, mentorship, and opportunities needed to reach their full potential.
"To give back to Pontiac and other communities the same love, guidance, support, and encouragement I received growing up."