"Ten Words that Changed My Life"

Derick Brown, the chief advancement and strategic partnerships officer of the YMCA of San Francisco, shares the life-changing argument that pushed him from telling teens to pursue college…to enrolling himself the very next morning. In this gripping story about credibility, leadership, and “walking the walk,” Derick traces how ten blunt words from his students transformed his career, purpose, and commitment to public service. From the Boys & Girls Club to UC Berkeley to leading civic-engagement work in San Francisco, he shows how disagreement can spark growth, community, and impact. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes the people we’re trying to inspire end up inspiring us.

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