Stephon Williams is the CEO and Founder of “Having A Better Understanding” (H.A.B.U.) Leadership Development Training, LLC, a minority-owned, veteran-owned small business. With a focus on Leadership & Human Capital Development and Diversity & Inclusion training, H.A.B.U. provides organizations with the tools and strategies to cultivate effective leaders and create inclusive work environments.
In addition to his impressive accomplishments, Stephon Williams has made significant contributions to various organizations and institutions. Notably, he played a crucial role in the development of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Training DVD for the Navy and Marine Corps in 2009, demonstrating his commitment to fostering safe and inclusive environments within the military.
Stephon has collaborated with esteemed organizations such as Carr, Riggs, & Ingram (CRI) CPA Firm, the Orlando Department of Corrections, Amazon, the National Guard Bureau, Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Department of Education, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Harris Corporation, the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), the Small Business Association (SBA), the Greater Orlando Organization Development (G.O.O.D.) Network, the International Association of Administration Professionals (IAAP), the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), as well as all branches of the U.S. military, state universities, local municipalities, and numerous small businesses and nonprofit organizations. Through these collaborations, Stephon has provided his expertise in leadership development, diversity and inclusion, and organizational effectiveness.
Stephon’s commitment to promoting positive organizational climates and inclusive cultures is evident in his role as the Deputy Director and Lead Facilitator for the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute’s (DEOMI) Mobile Training Team (MTT) and Executive Leadership Awareness Seminars. His contributions to these initiatives have been instrumental in enhancing awareness and understanding of diversity-related issues within the military.
In recognition of his expertise, Stephon was selected in 2014 to brief the Department of Defense’s Under Secretary of Personnel and Readiness, as well as members of the U.S. Armed Services Committee, on strategies for creating positive organizational climates in the military. This opportunity highlights his ability to provide valuable insights and recommendations at the highest levels of leadership.
Following his retirement from active duty, Stephon continued to share his knowledge and experience as a recurring guest speaker and adjunct facilitator within the Department of Defense, focusing on Diversity & Inclusion topics and Leadership Development seminars. His contributions in these areas have had a lasting impact on individuals and organizations within the military.
Stephon is also a published author, having written several books that delve into leadership and empathy. His works include “Stephonisms,” “The 5 Deadly Vowels of Leadership,” and “What They Feel Matters (Leadership & Empathy).” Through his writing, he offers unique perspectives and practical advice on leadership principles and the importance of empathy in organizational settings.
Stephon brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as a consultant. With over 21 years of service in the United States Marine Corps and the Department of Defense, he has a proven track record of exceptional leadership performance. Throughout his military career, Stephon gained extensive knowledge in leadership and group development, honing his skills in various challenging environments.
To complement his practical experience, Stephon holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Leadership from Ashford University. He furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Arts in Administration & Leadership and a Masters in Public Administration from Barry University. A lifelong learner, Stephon remains committed to expanding his knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Stephon’s dedication to professional development is evident through his numerous certifications. He holds certifications as a Certified Department of Defense Mediator, Advanced Facilitation, Leading Diverse Groups Trainer, Small Group Development Instructor Trainer, Diversity Instructor Trainer, Master Facilitator, and Certified DISC and Emotional Intelligence Trainer, among others. These certifications enable him to deliver high-quality training programs that address diverse needs and challenges within organizations.
As a sought-after speaker, Stephon delivers keynote addresses on a range of topics including Leadership, Team Development, Diversity & Inclusion, Motivation & Empowerment, and Emotional Intelligence. Through his engaging and impactful presentations, he inspires and motivates individuals and teams to reach their full potential.
Stephon’s expertise extends to facilitating executive leadership, middle management, and human relations training programs throughout the Department of Defense. He is known for his ability to design and deliver scenario-based training, providing participants with practical and applicable skills that they can immediately implement in their professional lives.
With his unwavering commitment to empowering individuals and organizations, Stephon Williams is making a significant impact in the field of leadership development and diversity training. Through H.A.B.U. Leadership Development Training, he continues to help organizations foster inclusive cultures and develop exceptional leaders who drive success and innovation.
