by Cyrus WebbFor years I've had the privilege of seeing the evolution and expansion that Harold "Noonie G" Ward has been a part of. He's shared his highs and lows with the world, and in 2026 Noonie G continued to show that there are no limits to what he can do.
After releasing his book ALTGELD GARDENS and sharing more entertainment projects and entrepreneurial endeavors, it's clear that the best is yet to come.
Noonie G, what you have achieved in your life, both personally and professionally, has been amazing to witness. What has it been like for you to reflect on the journey to where you are now?
Honestly, it's been amazing and at the same time, surreal. There are moments where I sit back and almost can't believe this is my life. But then again, I do believe it, because I know God has been with me every step of the way.
When I think about where I came from: the streets, the struggles, the things I was exposed to and then look at where I am now, it's nothing short of a blessing. I've seen a lot, been through a lot, and to now be in a place where I'm serving God and trying to give back... It's powerful.
I actually had a moment on a plane recently where I just started crying, reflecting on how far I've come. It wasn't sadness. It was gratitude. God has blessed me over and over again, and I don't take that for granted. So when I reflect on the journey, all I can really say is it's been incredible.
In reading your story that you've shared in your books you seem to be a natural leader. Has it been easy for you to adjust to people looking to you for answers and leadership?
I wouldn't necessarily say it's been easy, but it feels natural to me. Leadership is one of the gifts God gave me, so I don't overthink it; it just kind of flows. When people come to me for guidance or answers, I don't hesitate. I step in and handle whatever comes my way.
It's like something that automatically kicks in. Whether someone needs advice, support, or direction, I'm there for it. I truly believe it's part of my purpose, and I try to use that gift in a way that helps others and honors God.
Speaking of leadership, when did you know that you were someone who was meant to lead?
Honestly, I recognized it at a young age. Even as a kid, I was always the one bringing people together whether it was for sports or just organizing something for us to do. When I spoke or made a plan, people naturally followed, and I didn't have to force it.
That was my first sign. I didn't fully understand it back then, but looking back now, I can see that leadership was already in me. As I grew older, that same energy just carried into my adult life. It's always been a part of who I am.
In your newest book ALTGELD GARDENS we see not just the challenges you faced but the opposition as well. I think our readers will really appreciate this. What has helped you to deal with the fact that not everyone around you is rooting for you?
One thing I had to learn is that everybody isn't going to like you and everybody isn't going to support your growth. Once I accepted that, it changed how I move. It keeps me on my Ps and Qs at all times.
When you start doing better and changing your life, it can make some people uncomfortable. Not everyone wants to see you grow, especially if they're used to the old version of you. I've had to deal with negativity, doubt, and people throwing different things my way, but that comes with the territory.
At the end of the day, I stay focused. I know who I am, and I know where I'm going. The opposition doesn't stop me; it actually motivates me. It keeps me sharp, keeps me grounded, and reminds me to keep pushing forward no matter what.
ALTGELD GARDENS also shows the importance of working together for a common good. You have gone from being a part of the problem to part of the solution. What does that community support mean to you as you continue to rise and thrive?
It means everything to me. I was raised in a household where giving back and supporting your community was the foundation. My father was the head janitor in Altgeld Gardens, and my mother was a school teacher, so service and responsibility were instilled in us early.
After my father passed, I lost my way for a while and became part of the problem. But life has a way of bringing things full circle. I made the decision to change, and coming back to be part of the solution means everything to me now.
It reminds me of what my parents taught me growing up: to help others, to give back, and to stand for something bigger than yourself. That community support isn't just important; it's personal. It's part of who I am, and it's what keeps me grounded as I continue to grow.
One thing about you, Noonie G, is that you don't mind helping others win. Why is that so important to you?
Because I truly believe there's enough out here for everybody. It's not a competition the way people make it seem. When I see other people win, I feel like I'm winning, too.
Helping others succeed creates a different kind of environment; one where people aren't trying to tear each other down or compete in a negative way. It takes away that crabs in a barrel mentality where everyone's just trying to pull each other back.
When more people are winning, there's less hate, less division, and more progress. That's the kind of mindset I stand on. We're all better when we uplift each other.
You also have made sure to remind young people about what is possible, regardless of where they come from. What do you hope our readers remember about the importance of not allowing themselves to be defined by their environment?
What I want people to understand is that no matter where you come from, you can change your life. As long as you're still breathing, you've got another chance to do things differently. Give it to God, ask for forgiveness, and take control of your path.
Your environment doesn't have to define you, and neither do other people's opinions. Just because someone sees you a certain way doesn't mean that's your reality. You have the power to become something greater. I'm living proof that change is possible. So don't let where you started be the reason you don't go further.
Outside of your work in the community and writing books, you are getting more involved in the entertainment industry. Tell us about your new projects.
I'm really excited about this next chapter. One of my biggest new projects is a TV series, and it's very personal to me. It's going to give people a real look at where I come from Altgeld Gardens and the culture, the struggles, the love, and the community that shaped me.
This project is about more than entertainment. It's about showing the world that greatness can come from anywhere. People don't always realize how many influential figures have roots connected to that same environment; people like President Barack Obama, Kanye West, Michelle Obama, and others. There's history there, there's talent there, and there are powerful stories that deserve to be told.
We've got some strong talent involved, and the goal is to create something that's authentic, impactful, and off the chain in the best way. At the same time, I'm using this opportunity to open doors for others. I'm creating jobs, giving people chances, and helping the next generation see what's possible.
For me, it's not just about getting into the entertainment industry; it's about using it as a platform to inspire, uplift, and bring real stories to life.
What advice do you have for others when it comes to the decision to make a change in their lives?
At the end of the day, everything we do in life comes down to a choice. The direction you're going in is based on decisions you've made. So if you want something different, you've got to decide to do something different.
As long as you're still breathing, you have the ability to change your life. God gives you that opportunity every day. But you have to be honest with yourself, if you keep going down the wrong path, that's a choice too.
Real change starts in your mind. Before anything happens, it's first a thought. So if you can change your thinking, you can change your actions and that can change your whole life. Not just for you, but for your family and the people around you.
Thanks again for all you do, Noonie G. How can our readers stay connected with you?
The best way to stay connected with me is through social media. I'm active on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Just look me up and tap in. I really enjoy engaging with people.
More than anything, I want people to stay connected to the movement; not just me. Follow what we're doing in the community, support the work, and be a part of it. We've got a lot of things coming up, from back-to-school drives to holiday giveaways, and even scholarships. We're giving away multiple $1,000 scholarships to help support the next generation.
And I'm real with it. If you reach out to me, I'm going to respond. People tell me not to, but I stay connected because that's what it's all about. So tap in, stay engaged, and grow with us. And I really want thank God and Tammy Johnson for her bomb Forward and her contribution to the book with her interviews and having my back through this whole process from the beginning. Thanks also to you, Cyrus.
