132. Cobe Williams: Street Life, Second Chances and Saving Lives

Sue Stockdale talks to Cobe Williams, the Director of U.S. programming for Cure Violence Global, as he reflects on his upbringing in Chicago, his exposure to street and gang life, and the impact of violence in his community. From childhood memories of block parties to the absence of a father figure leading him to the streets, Kobe shares poignant moments that shaped his life and perspective on the importance of addressing violence in communities. Learn how Cobe turned his life around to focus on community work, relationships, violence prevention, and the impact of the Cure Violence Global model. 

About Cobe Williams
Ricardo "Cobe" Williams's journey from the depths of gang life to becoming an international symbol of peace is nothing short of remarkable. His life story reads like a screenplay - born into the notorious Black Disciples, a childhood marred by the brutal murder of his father, and years spent navigating the treacherous waters of gang leadership. Yet, his astonishing turnaround - from gang leader to award-winning peacekeeper and community activist - offers a blueprint for social reform worldwide.

His work has been celebrated across media outlets like People Magazine and he has earned many accolades, including the Hero Award from Phillip Zimbardo and the United Nations Peace Award. Cobe serves as Director of US Programs for Cure Violence Global, overseeing training and technical assistance for more than 50 sites across more than 20 cities. Cobe travels the globe training violence interrupters in mediation and conflict resolution strategies. 

Connect with Cobe Williams via Interrupt The Violence.com 

Key Quotes

• “It's important to listen and get to know people and build relationships.
• “ A lot of youth feel nobody listen to them."
• “ A lot of times people, on the news when somebody got shot or somebody got killed or whatever, they always say it's gang related. That's not true. A lot of this violence is interpersonal."
• "I can help save somebody's life. It feels good to know I saved somebody from getting shot and getting killed."
• “People don't just wake up and say they want to do something bad to somebody, right? But a lot of times people they don't know how to ask for help."
• "Meet people where they are. Don't judge nobody because you never know what they've been through and what they're going through."
• "It's not how you start, but it's how you finish."

Time Stamps
[03:16] Turning point in court.
[06:40] Interpersonal violence beyond gangs.
[10:48] Credibility and community impact.
[12:44] Sports and community building.
[17:56] Overcoming struggles and inspiring others.
[20:47] Building relationships and understanding.

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Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

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