“You can’t walk a mile in my shoes” is more than just a phrase for Michael Williams. For him, shoes represent survival, identity and a sense of purpose shaped by years of going without. 

Williams, a South Campus student, is a sneaker reseller and collector whose life now revolves around footwear. What began as a childhood struggle has turned into both a passion and a source of income. 

Growing up, Williams said his family could not always afford new shoes. He often wore secondhand shoes that did not fit him properly or were visibly worn. At school, those shoes became a source of embarrassment and ridicule.  

“I got bullied a lot for the shoes I wore,” Williams said. “Kids notice that kind of thing. When you are young, it sticks with you.” 

His longtime friend Marcus Campbell said he remembers those moments vividly.  

“I saw how people treated him because of his shoes,” Campbell said. “Now it’s just amazing to see him making a living off something that used to hurt him.” 

Those early experiences left a lasting impact. Williams said he became hyperaware of shoes and what they represented culturally. While other kids looked forward to new clothes or electronics, he focused on sneakers, watching trends and memorizing styles he could not afford. 

As he got older, that interest deepened. Williams began learning about sneaker culture, resale markets and limited releases. When he finally had access to his own money, he bought his first pair of shoes not just to wear but to understand their value. 

“I realized shoes could be more than something you just put on your feet,” Williams said. “They could be a way to build something.” 

Today, Williams resells sneakers online and through local connections. He researches releases, tracks demand and restores older shoes before selling them. What started as a personal interest has become his primary source of income while attending school. 

According to Williams, reselling requires patience and discipline. He said the work involves long hours of research, networking and careful budgeting. Each pair tells a story, both for him and the customer. 

“Every shoe has a background,” he said. “Some people buy them because they missed out before. Others buy them because it reminds them of a certain time in their life.” 

One of those customers, Daniel Figueroa, said Williams stands out because of his honesty. “He explains where the shoes came from and why they matter,” Figueroa said. “You can tell this is not just business for him.” 

Another customer, Ashley Bethea, said she trusts Williams when making purchases. “He cares about the shoes and the people buying them,” Bethea said. “That makes a difference.” 

Shoes also serve as a form of confidence for Williams. He said owning and selling sneakers helped him overcome insecurities rooted in his childhood experiences. 

“When you grow up feeling like you never had enough, it changes how you see yourself,” Williams said. “Shoes helped me rebuild that confidence.” 

Williams’ girlfriend, Mariah Sylvester, said the passion he has influences every part of his life.  

“He puts so much time and effort into this,” Sylvester said. “It gives him purpose, and you can see how proud he is of what he has built.” 

While reselling is his current focus, Williams said he hopes to expand his business in the future. He plans to grow his brand, mentor others and possibly open a storefront.  

For Williams, the work is not just about profit. He said it’s about reclaiming something that once made him feel small.  

“I turned something that hurt me into something that helps me,” Williams said. “That is what shoes mean to me.”