In a matter of seconds, Wendell went from professional athlete and American football ambassador to international political prisoner. Battling through cultural isolation and a harsh legal system, his indomitable spirit endures the test of time and prejudice. A journey of love, faith, tenacity, and triumph, Wendell's experiences will take you through a series of significant events which will lead you on a path of gratitude, joy, and purpose in the midst of adversity and opposition.
Powerful story and incredible will of one of the strongest guys I know. But the strength Wendell uses is the strength of his mind. If this book doesn’t motivate you, then nothing will.
— Anthony “Spice” Adams
(TV Host, Actor, Comedian, Former NFL Defensive Tackle)
Despite the danger that surrounded him after having his freedom stripped from him and being thrown into the horrid conditions of a Chinese prison, Wendell rose above it with his spiritual strength and determination. Wendell Brown’s journey of faith is an inspiration.
— Matt Liston (Sports Activist and Filmmaker)
He was everywhere on the field and had so much respect from everyone. Wendell not only gave myself and so many others someone to look up to but he also gave us hope. Especially those who reside in the city where we’re from. His story is truly inspirational.
— Brandon Graham (NFL Pro Bowl Defensive End)
Wendell L. Brown Sr. is a Ball State University Graduate and Sports Hall of Fame Inductee. After working as a lawyer’s assistant at the Michigan Law Firm Plunkett Cooney and aiding at risk youth by serving as a treatment specialist within Don Bosco Hall, a Detroit Group Home, Wendell was back surrounded by athletes. He worked as a high school and collegiate football coach and academic advisor before playing professionally in multiple countries.
Wendell founded the Brown Elite Youth Elevation Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit youth and community empowerment organization which specializes in providing support to at-risk youth through mentoring, tutoring, leadership and life skills courses, along with athletic and academic college scholarship opportunities. Wendell is the Owner and CEO of Brown Elite, a sports performance and fitness training company and brand. He is also currently a program director and coach with the Sound Mind Sound Body Football Academy. Coach for Michigan Elite Football Club, and strength and conditioning coordinator, and linebacker coach for the 2021 state of Michigan’s #1 ranked and #38 nationally ranked, Detroit Martin L. King Jr. Senior High School football team.
