Byron Burnside embodies the transformative power of resilience and determination. Born on the east side of one of Detroit’s roughest areas, where drugs, gangs, and unrelenting violence plagued the community. Byron had no refuge from these harsh realities, with his mother still a teenager and his father absent.

In these hard times, his grandmother, Ms. Christine Calime, became his guardian angel. Taking him under her wing, she navigated the harsh environment to protect him. Amidst the sounds of gunfire and sirens, Byron wrestled with the painful realization of being abandoned by his parents.

However, this harsh reality did not stop Byron from pursuing excellence. His determination led him to Central State University, where he obtained degrees in Business Management and Economics. These corridors saw Byron transform from a child feeling rejected to a man symbolizing achievement, including becoming a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Now, Byron is a respected figure at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, where his contributions are both valued and celebrated. His personal growth also sparked the creation of two successful businesses. “Greatness Beyond Everything,” his non-profit mentoring program, serves as a haven for those facing similar adversities to those he once overcame. Additionally, he is the founder of a thriving car rental business.

Today, Byron is a devoted father to two beautiful children and is partnered with a woman who reflects his strong spirit. “My journey is a testament to my steadfast faith,” Byron states. He views every challenge as a stepping stone that forged his indomitable spirit. The Eastside of Detroit may have seen the birth of a troubled child, but the world now sees a man who exemplifies victory. Byron’s life story, marked by hardships, is a powerful illustration of how faith can turn profound adversity into a story of remarkable success.