Some people see shortcomings in our society and feel overwhelmed or apathetic. Then there are people like Courtney Ebonique Smith who roll up their sleeves and fill in the gap. She has dedicated her career to advocating for the underserved and underestimated.
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Courtney is a beacon of proactive community engagement and service. She recognized a critical need in her community. She established Detroit Phoenix Center, a high-impact nonprofit organization that provides housing, essential needs, education, and comprehensive wrap-around services to children, youth, and families. Notably, the Detroit Phoenix Center partners with youth to lead change in their community, confronting systemic barriers head-on.
Courtney's unwavering commitment to service has garnered national recognition, with features in Essence, Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and the Steve Harvey Show.
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She has been honored as the 2021 "Most Valuable Professional" by Corp! Magazine and recently recognized as one of “Michigan's Top 50 Women Leaders”. Additionally, she is a double-time recipient of the Spirit of Detroit Award and has been named among Michigan Chronicle's "40 under 40."
Transparent and progressive, Courtney is a sought-after speaker on youth and community development, advocacy, and servant leadership. She is a thought leader on the Forbes Nonprofit Council. She holds positions on influential boards such as the Eastern Michigan University Alumni Association, Detroit Continuum of Care, Culture Academy, and the Black Executive Director Alliance of Detroit. She also serves on the National Network For Youth Policy Advisory Committee.
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Moreover, Courtney holds the prestigious title of reigning Ms. Michigan within the Ms. World Universal pageant system, where she champions philanthropy, diversity, inclusion and belonging.
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In addition to her social change endeavors, Courtney is pursuing a master's in Industrial Organizational Psychology at Harvard University. Her passion for personal growth and community impact is matched only by her love for spending quality time with loved ones, exploring new places through travel, and indulging in live theater.