Derschaun Sharpley, is the president and founder of Helping Individuals Succeed (H.I.S.) located in Detroit, Michigan. Focused on developing positive character in the lives of inner city youth and strengthening families, Derschaun launched H.I.S. in August 2004. Her desire to effect positive change in her community paved the journey her life would soon unravel.

After years as a program manager for Detroit Public Schools, I now host One Pearl and One Star programs and other workshops independently. I’ve mentored more than 2000 children so far! H.I.S. Agency manifests my belief that I am to be a light to children in the midst of chaos. These programs go back to the basics of etiquette and interpersonal communications, creating responsibility, integrity, respect and empowerment. My observations from within the system show me that many youth lack basic living skills and self-esteem. I show boys and girls simple and effective tools that build a terrific foundation for relationships, career, and confidence in all areas of life.

My commitment to this focus on building positive character among Detroit’s inner city youth stems from my childhood, my education, and my natural affinity for getting along with and inspiring children of all backgrounds. I thank my mother for having the foresight to enroll me in Charm School when I was eight! Like many others, our home was broken, and Mom knew that some simple grooming and manners would go a long way for me. It helped give me the confidence I needed to study tap, modern dance and jazz, and to pursue professional acting, modeling, and singing!

Later, I studied for and earned my cosmetology license after graduating from high school. I continued on to earn a bachelor’s degree in health care administration, and worked in the field, but eagerly accepted a position with the school board as Program Manager to be near kids. I facilitated programs similar to these ones, and loved it so much I’ve branched out on my own.

It’s most important to me to work where I am making a difference for our children. And to make sure H.I.S. Agency succeeds, I studied further at The Detroit Entrepreneurship Institute and graduated in 2006! Now I give children a fun way to participate in their own personal growth. I also speak or conduct workshops at various schools, committees, churches, and organizations.

From becoming a board member at the Detroit Lions Professional Football Charity, to being honored as Volunteer of the Year for the Detroit Executive Service Corp., to caring for my new son, I’m always side-by-side with the next generations. And that is exactly where I want to be.