Meet Lorenzo Lewis | Public Speaker/ Social Entrepreneur/ Philanthropist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lorenzo Lewis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lorenzo, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
If I had to choose the most important factor behind my success and the success of Street Diplomat, it would be authenticity and cultural connection.

Street Diplomat isn’t just a brand, it’s a movement. It represents the journey of those of us who come from environments where resilience isn’t a choice; it’s a necessity. It’s about bridging worlds from the block to the boardroom, from the streets to the big stage but without losing who you are. I built this brand on the understanding that our voices matter, that the lived experiences of minority communities deserve a platform, and that we can be both polished professionals and unapologetic advocates for our people.

The driving force behind the success of Street Diplomat is the ability to bridge worlds, bringing the raw, unfiltered grit of the streets into the structured, high-stakes world of corporate excellence. This brand is built on the idea that success isn’t about where you start, it’s about how you pivot and navigate.

I was born into adversity, literally entering this world in a prison, and I know firsthand what it means to hustle, adapt, and transform struggles into strategy. That’s the essence of Street Diplomat—it’s not just a title; it’s a philosophy that blends resilience, creativity, and ambition to redefine success on our own terms.

What makes this brand thrive is its ability to resonate across cultures. Whether through fashion, media, music, or gaming, we are telling a story that connects people from different backgrounds but with the same drive to turn obstacles into opportunities.

At the core of Street Diplomat is a commitment to authenticity. We’re not faking it to fit into spaces we’re making spaces fit us. That means being bold in our messaging, unapologetic in our ambition, and intentional about creating a legacy that uplifts others.

The success of Street Diplomat comes down to this: Respect the grind. Own your narrative. And never forget where you came from because that’s what makes you successful.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My business isn’t just about making money, it’s about creating movements that change lives. The Lewis Family of Businesses (LFOB) is the umbrella for everything I do, from The Confess Project of America (TCPA) the nation’s first mental health advocacy movement for barbers to
Street Diplomat, a global brand that blends street hustle with corporate excellence through fashion, media, entertainment, and social impact. What sets us apart is that we don’t just talk about resilience, we embody it.

But getting here wasn’t easy. I was born in a prison, raised in struggle, and battled my own mental health challenges. I had every reason to fail, but I learned how to turn obstacles into opportunities. My success came from building relationships, taking risks, and showing up unapologetically as myself in every space I entered. I refused to let rejection define me; instead, I used it to refine my vision.

The biggest lessons I’ve learned? Your story is your superpower. Success is about access, not just hard work. And mental health is wealth. Too many people burn out chasing success because they ignore their well-being. That’s why everything I build, whether it’s Street Diplomat or The Confess Project is rooted in purpose and sustainability.

At the end of the day, I want the world to know this: You don’t have to abandon your roots to be successful. Your past doesn’t define you, your vision does. If you can dream it, you can build it. And once you do, make sure you’re lifting others up along the way. That’s what true impact looks like.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The Original Farmers Market
Echo Park Lake
Highland Park Bowl
Griffith Park
Rodeo Drive
Grand Central Market
The Getty Center

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
When I think about the journey I’ve been on, from navigating my own struggles with mental health to building The Confess Project of America and The Lewis Family of Businesses, I know without a doubt that none of it would be possible without my wife, Jordon J. Lewis.

Jordon is more than my partner in life; she’s my partner in purpose. Her vision, strength, and unwavering belief in our mission have not only fueled our success but have also challenged me to grow in ways I never imagined. As the CEO and Chairwoman of L&J Empowerment and the driving force behind The Confess Project of America, she has been a pillar of leadership, a champion for mental health advocacy, and a relentless force for change in underserved communities.

But beyond the work, beyond the impact, she has been my anchor, the one who sees me at my best and at my most uncertain moments and reminds me why we do what we do. She’s a mother, a leader, and an inspiration, and I am beyond grateful to have her by my side in life and in this movement.

Website: https://www.lorenzoplewis.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzoplewis/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorenzoplewis/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lorenzoplewis/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thestreetdiplomat