Dr. Laura D. Williams, Ed.D., is an educator, nonprofit executive, and transformational speaker whose life journey embodies resilience, purpose, and the power of possibility. A former foster youth turned founder and community leader, Dr. Williams uses her voice to inspire individuals and organizations to rise beyond limitations and rewrite their narratives. She is the Founder and CEO of Just Who I Am, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering foster youth and underserved families through mentorship, education, and community-centered programming. Her work is rooted in the belief that where you start does not determine where you finish.

With over a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership, youth development, and community advocacy, Dr. Williams brings both lived experience and professional expertise to every stage she steps on. She holds a Doctorate in Education and has collaborated with schools, faith-based institutions, city leaders, and community organizations to design impactful programs that support academic success, emotional healing, and leadership development. Her story—marked by faith, perseverance, and purpose—resonates deeply with audiences navigating adversity, transition, or the pursuit of calling.

As a speaker, Dr. Williams is known for her authenticity, warmth, and ability to connect across generations. She speaks on topics including overcoming adversity, purpose-driven leadership, foster youth advocacy, identity, faith, and turning pain into purpose. Whether addressing youth, educators, nonprofit professionals, or corporate audiences, Dr. Williams challenges listeners to reflect, rise, and respond boldly to the call on their lives. Her message is clear: you may see the glory, but you don’t know the story—and your story still has power.