Black History Month Spotlight: Stephen Johnson

In celebration of Black History Month, we invited Douglas Elliman agents to share their experiences and reflect on the role their identity and heritage have played in their real estate careers.

Stephen Johnson, Agent, Beverly Hills, Calif.

What aspects of your identity or experience as a Black person are most meaningful for you? Are there traditions or other aspects of your experience that are a particular source of pride?

The most meaningful experience as a Black person is the resiliency and strength I carry to be able to handle what is at task. The faith and determination to be a better person everyday allows me to stand tall and carry out my family’s legacy.

How did you find your path to success in real estate?

My late father was a real estate broker and owned a mortgage company. I grew up around the business, which lead me to walk into this path after my collegiate football career.

Are there values or elements of your identity that you draw strength from in your work as an agent?

The everyday battles I face allow me to understand that I have more strength than I know. I pull from knowing where I come from and carrying out what my father began for me.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month means strength and courage, the ability to look forward and sacrifice for what’s to come in the future, to understand the creativity and ability to adapt and overcome.

How do you think brokerages like Douglas Elliman can help foster greater diversity and understanding in the industry?

It’s all about representation: the more we show, the more we know. There’s a younger generation to come, and when they see Black professionals, it gives them an opportunity to believe and see they can accomplish the same thing.