Meet Ozell Williams Jr | Tumbling Coach, Sports Program Director & Entrepreneurial Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ozell Williams Jr and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ozell, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I embarked on an artistic and creative career solely driven by my unwavering passion. My journey began at the tender age of 3, inspired by the antics of the Power Rangers. A simple act of flipping off my mother’s couch and into her entertainment center ignited my self-taught journey in tumbling. This early fascination led to a cascade of opportunities that extended far beyond the realm of physical prowess. Tumbling became more than just a physical outlet; it became a transformative force in my life. It instilled in me a sense of confidence that was instrumental in navigating the complexities of my personal struggles and triumphing over the stereotypes that sought to confine me. Beyond the flips and spins, tumbling became my canvas for self-expression, a means to convey my identity and thoughts in ways that resonated deeply with others. Through my artistry, I found a voice that compelled people to not only listen but also to connect with me on a profound level.

However, my pursuit was not limited to personal gratification. Rooted in my journey was a profound desire to give back. I understood the challenges faced by the youth in my community, and I wished to be the guiding light that I had yearned for during my own upbringing. Through my artistic career, I aimed to equip them with the resources, opportunities, and connections that I wished I had access to in my formative years.

Thus, my creative journey transcends individual ambitions; it’s a conduit for empowerment and upliftment. By investing my life and energy into this tumbling platform, I’m imbuing it with a deeper purpose – one that extends beyond flips and somersaults. It’s about imparting a sense of purpose, nurturing self-confidence, and arming the next generation with tools that amplify their potential. Through my artistic pursuit, I’m fostering a legacy of resilience, creativity, and the unyielding spirit to overcome obstacles – a legacy that I’m honored to share with those who walk this path alongside me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a Professional Tumbling Artist & Business Owner!

The genesis of my Tumbling entrepreneurial journey was deeply rooted in my personal history and experiences. Beginning tumbling at the tender age of 3, I embarked on a self-taught path due to financial constraints within my family. Growing up in the midst of poverty and a fractured household, I chose to channel the pain and lessons I acquired into a powerful catalyst for change. This determination ignited within me the desire to construct a lasting legacy for the younger generation, my community, and myself.

The impetus behind founding my own business was intricately tied to my fervent love for tumbling and my unwavering commitment to providing opportunities for growth. Motivated by this, I sought to create a platform that not only elevated my craft but also offered a path to empowerment for those battling to improve their lives each day. With a clear vision, I envisioned establishing a Tumbling Program that catered to the inner-city youth, fostering possibilities that transcended limitations.

My entrepreneurial venture encompasses a two-pronged approach: a non-profit organization and an LLC. This dual structure ensures inclusivity and eliminates the need to turn anyone away due to financial constraints. A poignant motivator for me is the memory of my mother, my baby brother, and the others who have been my unwavering cheerleaders, even from the sky. This legacy of support drives me to continually strive for excellence, not only for their memory but for the faith that others have vested in the vision I’m cultivating.

“Inspiring The World, One Flip At A Time” encapsulates the spirit of our endeavor. It’s a rallying cry that resonates not just with me, but with the people who believe in the transformative power of what we’re building – a testament to the enduring impact of turning adversity into opportunity.

What sets me apart from others is a deep recognition of my humanity – that I, too, experience struggles and challenges, just like anyone else. But woven into that is a mindset that defines my journey – one of being anointed, destined, and uniquely motivated. My self-motivation is drawn from both my personal experiences and the collective sacrifices made by myself and those close to me, all in service of building something impactful for a wider audience.

My pride doesn’t stem from the absence of difficulties but from the unwavering determination that has sustained me throughout. The path I’ve taken has been far from easy; it’s been rife with trials and tribulations. Yet, these challenges have proven to be the crucible in which my character and vision have been forged. There were moments when the obstacles seemed insurmountable, but I drew strength from my faith and summoned the resilience needed to navigate those turbulent waters.

The journey to where I am today has been marked by both struggle and triumph. I’ve learned that challenges, no matter their size or complexity, can be conquered through a combination of faith, determination, and creative problem-solving. Each obstacle serves as an opportunity for growth, a chance to refine my approach and learn valuable lessons.

Amidst the journey’s ups and downs, there’s one lesson that stands above all: Never give up. It’s a refrain that echoes in my mind during the toughest times, urging me forward when the path seems unclear. This lesson is a testament to the power of persistence, a reminder that setbacks are temporary and that the pursuit of one’s dreams is always worth the effort.

What I want the world to know about me, my brand, and my story is that every achievement, every stride, and every success is rooted in humanity and faith. I’m driven not by an absence of challenges, but by the audacity to confront them head-on. My story is one of resilience, empowerment, and the belief that even in the face of adversity, remarkable change is possible. It’s a narrative of a journey that transcends personal aspirations to uplift communities, empower youth, and inspire the world, one flip at a time.

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.
Absolutely, if my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d want to give them an unforgettable experience exploring the area. Here’s a rough itinerary of what the week might look like:

Day 1 – Arrival and Local Cuisine:
Arrival at the airport followed by a quick stop for some local cuisine to kick off the trip.
Spend the evening exploring the local area and getting acclimated.

Day 2 – Sightseeing and University Visits:
Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe.
Embark on a sightseeing tour of various cities and landmarks, including Denver, Aurora, Red Rocks, Cooper, Littleton, Boulder, etc.
Visit local universities to get a sense of the educational landscape and engage in campus exploration.

Day 3 – Partner Businesses and Entertainment:
Start the day with a brunch at a trendy spot.
Tour partner businesses such as Athletics and Beyond, Apex Denver, Kali Strength, and Mile High Tumblers 5280.
Afternoon visit to entertainment spots like a local mall, a round of bowling, a pool hall, etc.
Evening at a downtown area to soak in the local vibe and perhaps catch a play or performance.

Day 4 – Outdoor Adventure:
Begin the day with a hearty breakfast to fuel the day’s activities.
Head out for a day of outdoor adventure – hiking, biking, even a trip to a nearby national park, etc.
Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature’s beauty.

Day 5 – Sports and Recreation:
Morning visit to a sports facility to watch or even participate in a local sports event.
Explore local recreational spots like parks, lakes, or beaches.
End the day with a fun and friendly sports activity, whether it’s a game of basketball, soccer, a friendly go kart race, Boondocks, Top Golf, etc,.

Day 6 – Cultural Immersion and Get-Together:
Begin with a breakfast at a cultural eatery, perhaps trying out international cuisine.
Spend the day visiting museums, art galleries, and cultural centers to gain a deeper understanding of the local culture.
Plan a get-together event in the evening, bringing together friends, partners, and acquaintances for a memorable gathering.

Day 7 – Farewell and Reflection:
Reflect on the week’s adventures over breakfast at a cozy cafe.
Share final moments exploring any remaining spots of interest or indulging in some shopping.
Bid farewell at the airport with memories of an incredible week together.

Throughout the itinerary, the focus would be on experiencing the local culture, engaging with partners and friends, and enjoying a diverse range of activities that capture the essence of the area. The goal would be to create a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, and quality time spent with those who make the trip special.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, there are numerous individuals, groups, and entities that deserve credit and recognition for their profound impact on my journey. Here’s a heartfelt shoutout to those who have played pivotal roles:

To God and My Mom(Parents): Thank you for the foundation you laid, for your unconditional love, and for nurturing me through a world that often posed challenges. Mom, your unwavering support and belief in my vision inspire me every day. Though you’re no longer with us, your spirit lives on in every step I take. Thank you God for giving me the strength, and fortitude to keep this torch lit!

I know you can hear me check this out, I’m giving you a shoutout in Colorado Magazine “Mom”. Love you……

Mile High Tumbling Family: Your dedication, support, and belief in this vision have been instrumental in its growth. Your commitment to our journey has made all the difference.

Partners and Collaborators: To those who have joined hands in making this vision a reality, including Fly Footage Productions, Athletics & Beyond, Apex Denver, Youth Empowerment Agency, Triloge Group, Kali Strength, and more – your contributions are invaluable.

Community and Supporters: A heartfelt shoutout to everyone who has embraced our journey, from fans to youth, young adults, and our broader community. Your belief in our mission fuels our determination.
Educators and Life Lessons: To those who have shared valuable lessons with me, both from positive and challenging experiences – your wisdom has been integral to my growth.

Creative Collaborators: Special thanks to Mercedes Davis, Marquese Flowers, Adam Yaw, Adam Potolsky, Alex Sanneh and all those who have collaborated creatively with us. Your contributions have helped shape the narrative of our journey.

Supporting Entities: From Dreamland productions, Tax Time, Griffin Management to Gilbertson Law Office and beyond, your support has been crucial in navigating the complexities of this journey.

Those Not Mentioned: To anyone I may have inadvertently missed, know that your contributions have not gone unnoticed. Every connection, every lesson, every gesture has left an indelible mark.

The success and progress I’ve achieved are the result of collective effort and shared belief. Your influence has contributed to the path I’m on, and I’m incredibly grateful for the role each of you has played. Thank you for being a part of this journey and for contributing to the legacy we’re building together.

Website: https://www.milehightumblers5280.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ozell-o-williams-jr-346a4268/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/OzellWilliams

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OzellCWilliamsJr/videos

Other: Tiktok = @OzellWilliamsjr

Image Credits
Mile High Tumblers 5280 FlyFootageProductions