CARANDUS T. BROWN, SR.

Born in Flint, Michigan and raised in Rockford, Illinois, I walked a path few could imagine—one marked by adversity, awakening, and the relentless pursuit of purpose. Once labeled a troubled child, I grew up navigating a tumultuous world shaped by gang involvement, deep-seated anger, and the painful weight of feeling “less than” due to early learning challenges. But even in the chaos, there was a quiet voice calling me to something more.

With sheer determination and faith-driven resilience, I taught myself to sharpen my literacy skills—transforming fragmented words into powerful verses that now speak to healing, manhood, and spiritual growth. My work as a poet, storyteller, and civil servant became a vehicle for expressing hard truths, emotional struggles, and the victories that follow personal transformation.

I am a very proud father of six and grandfather of seven, and my family is the heartbeat of my evolution. Their presence has not only deepened my faith but also expanded my capacity for self-awareness, emotional accountability, and leadership. I give a special honor to my mother who never stopped loving and supporting me even in my darkest hour. 

In 2006, I shattered the stereotype of the absent Black father by gaining custody of my three youngest children—an act that solidified my role as a man of action and spiritual integrity.

The quotes that inspire and motivate me to persevere are:

• "Without a struggle, there can be no progress" by Frederick Douglass.

• "Everything negative—pressure, challenges—are opportunities for me to rise," by Kobe Bryant.

• "I’ve made life-changing decisions without fearing the outcome, and because of that, I have become a stronger person today."