Entertainment
Jeffery Lorenzo Williams: Defying Limits and Redefining Possibility
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) – When you hear the word “disability,” it’s easy to imagine limits, restrictions, and barriers. But for Jeffery Lorenzo Williams, those words have no place in his vocabulary. Paralyzed at 13, Williams identifies as a person of determination — a term that reflects strength and capability, not limitation. His life has become a masterclass in turning adversity into empowerment, proving that the most powerful movement begins in the mind.
During an exclusive interview with FNN News, Williams reflected on the event that changed his life and the mindset that carried him forward.
“I never focused on what I couldn’t do,” Williams said. “I focused on what I could and I just kept moving forward.”
That perspective has shaped a career defined by reinvention. Today, Williams is an accomplished New York City real estate broker, motivational author, pilot, and footwear designer. Each title tells part of the same story — one of perseverance, creativity, and purpose.
Through his footwear brand JLorenzo’s, Williams designs adaptive sneakers that merge fashion with motivation. His collections feature empowering inscriptions such as “Be somebody nobody thought you could be.” He laughs as he recalls me being his first customer. “Each inscription represents walking not just physically, but walking in purpose,” he said.
His work has not only built a stylish, inclusive brand but has also redefined what representation in fashion can look like. Earlier this year, Williams brought that message to Daniel’s Leather’s Inclusive Fashion Show during New York Fashion Week 2025, joining nearly 40 wheelchair-using models, including Ms. Wheelchair America 2026, Latavia Sturdivant. The event was more than a showcase — it was a celebration of visibility and empowerment. “The energy was incredible,” Williams said. “It wasn’t about being different, it was about being seen.”
Kareen Kennedy wearing her JLorenzos in 2019
Beyond fashion, Williams takes his passion for breaking barriers to the skies. As a licensed pilot, he flies glider planes, something he calls the ultimate expression of freedom.
“Flying gives me freedom,” he said. “It’s proof that even when life grounds you, you can still soar.”
His memoir, “My Feet Are Off the Ground: Turning Tragedy Into Triumph,” chronicles his remarkable journey from paralysis to success. Proceeds from the book fund nursing scholarships, extending his lifelong commitment to giving back. Looking ahead, Williams plans to bring his story to new audiences through a documentary and a stage play, with his son, Jeff Jr., potentially portraying him on screen.
Photo Courtesy of Jeffery Williams
When asked if he would change his past, Williams paused thoughtfully before answering.
“Of course, I’d love to walk,” he said. “But if I hadn’t gone through what I did, I wouldn’t have been able to touch and change lives the way I have. That’s worth more than anything.”
Jeffery Lorenzo Williams doesn’t just live with determination — he embodies it. Through his work, his story, and his example, he continues to challenge the world’s perception of ability. His life is a vivid reminder that real barriers often exist only where others place them, and that courage, when paired with purpose, can truly move mountain.
In a world quick to define people by their obstacles, Jeffery Lorenzo Williams is a compelling reminder that true limitation exists only where we allow it.
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Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com
Central Florida News
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Business
Maria del Carmen Rodriguez Joins Florida National News as Spanish-Speaking Reporter and Co-Host
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Florida National News (FNN) is proud to announce the addition of Maria del Carmen Rodriguez as a Spanish-speaking on-camera reporter and co-host, marking another major step in the network’s statewide expansion and celebration of its 11th anniversary.
Rodriguez joins the growing team at FNN News en Español, where she will bring her bilingual communication skills and cultural insight to the forefront of FNN’s Spanish-language news and lifestyle programming. Her arrival underscores FNN’s commitment to serving Florida’s rapidly growing Hispanic and Latino communities with trusted, relevant, and inspiring storytelling.
FNN President J. Willie David, III stated, “Maria del Carmen Rodriguez represents the next generation of diverse storytellers who connect authentically with our audiences. Her addition reflects FNN’s continued mission to expand across Florida while elevating Hispanic voices in broadcast journalism. We are proud to welcome her as part of our 11th anniversary and our vision for the next decade of growth.”
FNN Vice President Jenny Rosario shared, “Maria brings a natural warmth and professionalism to every story she tells. Her passion for community-driven journalism and ability to connect with Spanish-speaking viewers make her a valuable asset to our team. She will help us continue producing content that truly reflects Florida’s diversity and the stories that matter most.”
FNN Managing Editor Monica Hoyos added, “We’re excited to have Maria join the newsroom and our on-camera team. Her bilingual storytelling ability and dedication to authentic, people-centered reporting will strengthen both our English and Spanish platforms. She embodies the spirit of connection and inclusion that defines Florida National News.”
As Florida National News moves into its next decade, the network is expanding its presence across Florida with enhanced on-camera reporting, bilingual programming, and original digital content through FNN News Network, FNN Sports Network, and FNN News en Español — continuing its mission to inform, inspire, and empower communities statewide.
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News@FloridaNationalNews.com
Business
Khamare Farrar Joins Florida National News as Part of Network’s 11th Anniversary and Statewide Expansion
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Florida National News (FNN) proudly announces the addition of on-camera reporter and co-host Khamare Farrar to its expanding newsroom team. Farrar joins as part of FNN’s 11th anniversary celebration and the network’s ongoing statewide expansion across its English and Spanish platforms.
FNN Managing Editor Monica Hoyos on the set of the Florida National News Podcast en Español with new On-Camera Reporter and Co-Host Khamare Farrar.
Photo by Florida National News
Farrar’s arrival represents another milestone in FNN’s mission to amplify diverse voices and deliver trusted, impactful storytelling across Florida. The growing team will continue to strengthen coverage in entertainment, business, politics, and community-focused “Good News & Reviews” segments.
FNN President J. Willie David, III said, “Khamare’s professionalism, energy, and on-camera presence embody the next generation of journalists we’re proud to welcome to Florida National News. As FNN continues to grow its statewide footprint, we’re committed to providing more original programming, exclusive interviews, and engaging storytelling that informs and inspires our viewers.”
FNN Vice President Jenny Rosario added, “We’re building something truly special — a network that reflects Florida’s diversity and brings forward voices that matter. Khamare’s addition strengthens our entertainment and lifestyle coverage, and her charisma will resonate with our audiences across all platforms.”
FNN Managing Editor Monica Hoyos shared, “We’re thrilled to have Khamare join our newsroom team as both a reporter and co-host. Her enthusiasm, curiosity, and storytelling skills will help us continue producing compelling news and feature segments that connect with our audiences worldwide.”
As Florida National News moves into its next decade, viewers can expect expanded coverage, more on-camera reporting, and innovative digital programming through FNN News Network, FNN Sports Network, and FNN News en Español.
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News@FlordiaNationalNews.com
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