Willis J. Byas is a man on a mission—to restore hope, rebuild broken lives, and reignite purpose in men who’ve been battered by life but not defeated. Born and raised in New York City, Willis understands firsthand the struggles many men face: the silent battles, the buried pain, and the pressure to always appear strong. But his life is proof that real strength is found in vulnerability, service, and faith. Today, Willis serves as a pastor on the leadership team at Harbor of Hope Church in Benton Harbor, Michigan. He is also a Reserve Police Officer, a behavioral health therapist, and an Affiliate with the International Center for Trauma Education and Care at Andrews University. Whether in the church, on the streets, or in the counseling room, Willis stands in the gap for men especially those who feel like they’ve lost their way. He has dedicated his life to helping men heal from trauma, confront their inner battles, and step into the strength of their identity. Through years of mentoring young men in schools, group homes, and refugee communities, Willis has developed a bold yet compassionate voice that challenges men to rise to lead, to love, and to live with purpose. Willis is a two-time graduate of Andrews University, holding a Master of Divinity and a Master of Social Work. His work has earned him the 2023 NASW MI Social Work Student of the Year award and the 2022 Community Engagement Award recognition of a man who doesn’t just talk about change, but creates it. Alongside his brothers, Wilner Byas Jr. and Dr. William Byas, Willis has raised over $20,000 for medical missions and programs supporting youth and men in crisis, proving that when men unite around purpose, impact multiplies. Willis believes that every man, no matter his past, can live free, love deeply, and lead with integrity. His personal mission is simple: to be the hands, feet, and face of Jesus to men who feel broken, burnt out, or forgotten. Whether offering healing to the hurting or strength to the struggling, Willis is a voice of hope for this generation. In his downtime, he recharges through hiking, biking, drawing, and spending time in nature—because even strong men need stillness. Willis J. Byas is more than a leader he’s a brother in the battle, a guide on the journey, and a living reminder that healing is possible and greatness is still within reach.