Isiah “Zeek” Williams

just 40 years old, Isiah “Zeek” Williams has emerged as one of Detroit’s most visionary and influential community leaders. 

As Founder and President of New Era Detroit, Williams has dedicated more than a decade to reimagining what grassroots activism, community empowerment, and violence prevention can look like in America’s largest majority-Black city. For his bold leadership, innovative thinking, and commitment to Detroit’s future, the Michigan Chronicle is proud to present him with the 2026 Men of Excellence Vanguard Award.

The Vanguard Award recognizes leaders who are not only making an impact today but are also shaping the future. Few embody that spirit more fully than Williams.

Following the 2014 death of Michael Brown in Ferguson and amid ongoing violence in Detroit neighborhoods, Williams experienced what he describes as a profound awakening. Rather than simply reacting to the challenges facing his community, he committed himself to becoming part of the solution. In 2015, he launched New Era Detroit with a vision of creating lasting change through community engagement, accountability, education, and empowerment.

hat began as a grassroots neighborhood initiative has evolved into a nationally recognized movement. Through programs such as Hood 2 Hood, Streets is Watching, Tangie’s Ride, Buy Black Tours, political education courses, youth development workshops, financial literacy classes, and community patrols, New Era Detroit has touched thousands of lives while helping to build stronger, safer, and more connected neighborhoods.

Williams’ leadership has helped secure significant investments in community violence intervention efforts, including a $700,000 federally funded grant that provided New Era Detroit with its first permanent home. Yet his success is measured by more than funding. It is reflected in safer streets, engaged residents, empowered youth, and a renewed sense of pride throughout Detroit communities.

Today, New Era Detroit has expanded to 14 chapters, including an international chapter in Nigeria. Still, Williams remains focused on his hometown and his vision of Detroit as a global model for Black excellence, self-determination, and community development.

A builder, innovator, and servant leader, Isiah “Zeek” Williams represents the next generation of transformative leadership. His work continues to inspire a movement and a city. For that reason, he is a deserving recipient of the 2026 Michigan Chronicle Men of Excellence Vanguard Award.