Detroit isn’t just a city—it’s a force. A place defined by resilience, reinvention, and an unmatched swagger that fuels progress in every direction. For Shawn H. Wilson, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan (BGCSM), that spirit is more than inspiring—it’s the foundation for everything he and his organization stand for.
“Detroit is always moving forward,” Wilson says. “What inspires me most is the spirit of the people—their ability to adapt, innovate, and push through challenges. That’s the same energy we channel at BGCSM.”
Driving through the city, Wilson sees more than new buildings or revitalized corridors. He sees transformation in motion—from Michigan Central’s rebirth as a global hub for mobility and tech to the spark of entrepreneurship lighting up neighborhoods across the region. “What’s happening here mirrors the work we’re doing with our youth,” he says. “We’re taking what was, reimagining what could be, and helping young people lead Detroit’s future.”
Driving through Detroit, you can’t miss the transformation- it’s everywhere. I’m inspired by the spirit of the people: Their swagger, ability to adapt, innovate, and push forward, no matter the challenges.
Under Wilson’s leadership, BGCSM has redefined the traditional Club model. No longer just a safe after-school space, it’s now a launchpad for economic mobility. From startup incubators to career readiness and homeownership pathways, BGCSM prepares youth for more than jobs—it prepares them for leadership.
In 2024, that bold vision took the Boys & Girls Club all the way to Abu Dhabi, where its Mobility Industry Club competed in an autonomous racing league—finishing fifth in the world and first among high school teams. “That wasn’t a ‘once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,’” says Wilson. “That’s the standard. We’re teaching our youth to believe they belong on global stages—and to own their future.”
A major enabler of that success? The Detroit Auto Show.
“The Auto Show isn’t just about showcasing cars—it’s about showcasing possibility,” Wilson says. “Their support, especially through the Charity Preview, has been transformational. It’s allowed us to scale programs, create new pathways, and inspire kids to lead in industries like mobility, technology, and the creative arts.”
The partnership between BGCSM and the Auto Show is rooted in shared values—progress, innovation, and a commitment to lifting up Detroit’s youth. “It’s a relationship built on bold thinking,” Wilson explains. “Together, we’re turning barriers into opportunities and ambition into action.”
When asked what car represents him best, Wilson doesn’t hesitate. A 1967 Mustang. “It’s iconic, bold, and built with purpose,” he says. “It pushed boundaries while staying true to its roots—just like our kids. Just like Detroit.”
That Mustang is more than a classic car. To Wilson, it’s a symbol of resilience and reinvention. A machine built to connect, inspire, and move forward—no matter the road.
That’s the Detroit Auto Show. That’s Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan. And that’s Shawn H. Wilson’s drive.