Mikki Williams is the epitome of resilience, passion, and reinvention. From building multiple businesses to captivating audiences as an internationally acclaimed speaker, Mikki’s journey is a masterclass in defying odds. A widow at just 29, she transformed her life’s hardships into fuel for inspiring others—especially women—around the world. At 82, Mikki continues to coach, travel extensively, run her Speaker School, and uplift women through her Goddess Foundation. Humans of Fuzia is proud to feature her extraordinary story to inspire our global community of over 5 million change-makers committed to women empowerment. We stand for She-for-She, He-for-She, and every story that shows what’s possible when we live authentically.
Tell us a little about your background and how your journey began.
I was raised by a single mom after my dad left when I was just four. Growing up without siblings or a father, all I dreamed of was the classic life—marriage, kids, and a home with a white picket fence. But life had other plans. I married young, had a son, and tragically lost my husband in a car accident when I was 29. I was suddenly a young widow, a single mom with no job, no life insurance, and a mortgage to pay. That hardship forced me to tap into resilience I didn’t even know I had.
How did you navigate life after that loss?
With no formal business background, I leaned into the talents I had. I was a professional dancer and a great cook, so I started a dance studio and a catering business. Both thrived. I even partnered with Martha Stewart in my catering venture. Over the years, I built and sold nine businesses, faced challenges like failed ventures and even embezzlement, but I always kept going. Looking back, those years were about discovering my entrepreneurial spirit and learning how to empower others through my story.
You’ve had such a diverse career. How did you transition into public speaking?
After years of running businesses, I realized I wanted to see the world and share my story. That’s how my speaking career began. For 35 years, I traveled the globe, inspiring audiences with my journey—from being a widow to a successful entrepreneur. I’ve spoken at the White House, at Nelson Mandela’s home after his release, and was even inducted into the National Speakers Hall of Fame. My signature speech focused on resilience, risk-taking, embracing change, and, above all, being authentically yourself.
What has been your biggest mission in recent years?
Empowering women is at the heart of everything I do. When I turned 65, I started the Goddess Foundation, helping young women launch their first businesses after college. I also organize annual “Goddess” trips where extraordinary women from around the world connect and inspire each other. Even now, I coach, run my Speaker School, and host Keynote Camps—but only on my terms, in alignment with the life I’ve designed for myself.
At 82, you’re still full of energy and living life to the fullest. What keeps you going?
Travel! My friends call me “GoGo” because I’m always on the move. This year alone, I’ve planned 17 trips—Spain, Lake Como, Wimbledon, and more. I’ve shifted from traveling for work to traveling purely for joy. On the personal front, I recently remarried the love of my life at 76. I’ve also prioritized my health like never before—lost 20 pounds and feel stronger than ever.
You’ve spoken about embracing authenticity. How has that shaped your life?
It’s everything. I’ve always been a little outrageous—big hair, sequins, bling—and people remember me for that. But more importantly, they remember me for being real. I teach my clients that success comes from owning who you are, taking risks, and not conforming to anyone else’s expectations. Confidence, especially for women, is the foundation of achieving anything.
What are your goals for the future?
My biggest challenge—and goal—is to finish my memoir. I’ve written other books, but this one is personal. It’s my legacy project. Alongside that, I’ll keep building my foundation, traveling, coaching selectively, and enjoying life with my husband, son, and wonderful friends.
“Everyone has untapped potential inside them. Be yourself—everyone else is taken. Don’t be afraid to take risks, be authentic, and embrace the one life you’ve been given.”
Connect with Mikki Williams:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikkiwilliams/
Want to be featured?
If you’d like to be featured in the Humans of Fuzia series, email us at fuziatalent@fuzia.com.
