Antonio Williams

About Antonio

Antonio Williams is the Founder and Executive Director of T.O.N.E. U.P., where he leads the organization’s vision, advocacy, and strategic growth. A powerful voice for those too often unheard, Antonio embodies resilience, transformation, and unwavering commitment to justice-impacted communities.

After spending 14 years incarcerated, Antonio discovered his purpose in mentoring other Black men inside the system. He organized, advocated, and helped lead a prison strike that delivered real change — revealing his ability to mobilize people, negotiate outcomes, and fight for human rights under unimaginable pressure.

Upon returning home, Antonio committed his life to ensuring that Black and Brown returning citizens have the support, resources, and community needed to rebuild. Through T.O.N.E. U.P., he connects individuals to workforce pathways, personal development, healing-centered support, and political education — including advocacy for legislation such as restoring voting rights for justice-impacted people.

Antonio’s vision is to create a world where returning citizens do not have to choose between survival and liberation. His work centers on helping individuals heal, reclaim their power, and become leaders in their own lives and communities.

Antonio is available for:
• Keynote speaking engagements
• Policy and advocacy roundtables
• Panel discussions and community dialogues
• Collaborations focused on justice reform, reentry, and lived-experience leadership

To inquire about booking Antonio for a speaking engagement, public appearance, or collaboration, please contact:

Leslie Alvarez
Co-Executive Director
Leslie@toneup.org or antonio@toneup.org

All requests will be reviewed and scheduled in alignment with Antonio’s leadership capacity and the organization’s mission priorities.

Follow Antonio on Instagram @antonio.williams1782

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