Courtney Smith empowers students to lead with purpose, resilience, and courage in an ever-changing world. She offers insight & inspiration for making a meaningful difference in their communities, no matter where or how they start.
Speaker Background
Courtney Ebonique Smith is the Founder and CEO of the Detroit Phoenix Center, a nationally recognized nonprofit supporting youth and families in crisis through housing, education, and empowerment. A Harvard and EMU alumna, she launched YouthUp to deliver resources directly to Detroit youth and created the Youth Action Board to elevate young voices in advocacy.
Her leadership has been recognized nationally, earning her features in Essence, Forbes, and Entrepreneur Magazine, along with honors like the 2024 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and 2025 Detroiter of the Year. Smith also serves on the Forbes Nonprofit Council and EMU’s Alumni Association Board, continuing her mission to advance equity and youth-led change.
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