Our Story Ken & Dr. Derschaun Brown

KEN BROWN
Game Changer, International Business Coach, Author and Entrepreneur,
and Inspirational Speaker
Everyone has a story to tell. Few, however, prove to be as profound and
inspirational as that of Mr. Kenneth Brown. He had every excuse to choose a
life of failure. At the age of 13 and 14, Ken’s parents brought their first child into
the world; by 17 and 18, they were mother and father to five children. In spite of
poverty and a trail of 10 evictions, Ken’s parents still emphasized the importance
of education and a strong work ethic.
After starting his journey in less than ideal circumstances, this Chicago native
worked his way through Southern Illinois University as a bus boy and waiter.
Once he graduated, he maintained his focus as well as his hunger for excellence,
which has paid off in monumental personal and professional opportunities. As
one of the youngest African-American owner/operators of two McDonald’s
franchises, Ken’s light has shone brightly in the arena of entrepreneurial
accomplishment.
Ken’s secret sauce to success is, “Never take lessons from a coach who never
played the game”. He has a proven track record that he has successfully played
the game and now works to help others do the same to live out their dreams.
He has authored and sold nearly 50,000 copies of two life-changing books, A
Leap of Faith and L.I.F.E. - Living In Freedom Everyday. Through media
appearances, seminars, workshops and business conferences, Ken has left a
lasting impact in the minds of thousands.
Recently featured in Ebony Magazine and with endorsements from renowned
mentors Les Brown, Tavis Smiley, Ronald Hairston and Herbert Harris, Ken has
what it takes to encourage others, inspire dreams and instill hope.

https://www.kenbrowninternational.com/about/

I'm Dr. Derschaun Sharpley Brown the president and founder of Helping Individuals Succeed (H.I.S.) located in Detroit, Michigan. Focusing on developing positive character in the lives of inner city youth and strengthening families, H.I.S. launched in August 2004. My desire to effect positive change in my community inspired this journey.After years as a program manager for Detroit Public Schools, I now host One Pearl and One Star programs and other workshops independently. I’ve trained and mentored more than 3000 children so far! H.I.S. Agency manifests my belief that I am to be a light to children in the midst of chaos. These programs go back to the basics of etiquette and interpersonal communications, creating responsibility, integrity, respect and empowerment. My observations from within the system show me that many youth lack basic living skills, leadership and self-esteem. I show boys and girls simple and effective tools that build a terrific foundation for relationships, career, and confidence in all areas of life.My commitment to this focus on building positive character among Detroit’s inner city youth stems from my childhood, my education, and my natural affinity for getting along with and inspiring children of all backgrounds. I thank my mother for having the foresight to enroll me in Charm School when I was eight! Like many others, our home was broken, and Mom knew that some simple grooming and manners would go a long way for me. It helped give me the confidence I needed to study tap, modern dance and jazz, and to pursue professional acting, modeling, and singing!
Later, I continued on to earn a bachelor’s degree in health care administration from Davenport University and received an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters in 2013. Most recently becoming a Certified Coach in 2019. I worked in the field of human resources, but eagerly accepted a position with the school board as Program Manager to be near kids. I facilitated programs similar to these ones, and loved it so much I’ve branched out on my o