King Tone
Antonio Fernandez
Antonio Fernandez, widely known as King Tone, is a dynamic and influential speaker who transforms his lived experience into a force for change. Once the leader of the Latin Kings, he now dedicates his life to mentorship, criminal justice reform, and empowering communities impacted by systemic oppression.
Through raw, unfiltered storytelling, Antonio captivates audiences at international conferences, universities, and law enforcement trainings, offering deep insights into gang intervention, credible messenger mentorship, leadership transformation, and the fight for justice. His message is one of redemption, resilience, and the power of second chances, challenging society to see the humanity in those often left behind.
Keynote Speaker
Previous Speaking Events
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Who is King Tone?
The Work He Did Before the Movement Began to Leading the Movement
Before: Antonio "King Tone" Fernandez redefined the Latin Kings, shifting its focus from a power group to a community-driven movement dedicated to providing resources, services, and support. His leadership united mothers across New York City, forming a coalition that fought against oppression and advocated for justice for those who had lost their children.
After: Grow Up Grow Out Jr. was founded to empower youth and keep them from entering the justice system. Through mentorship and guidance, the initiative seeks to reach vulnerable young people early, providing them with the support and opportunities needed to build a brighter future—one that avoids the hardships King Tone once faced.
From 1992- Till Now
1992
Transforming Power into Service: The Latin Kings
Antonio "King Tone" Fernandez transformed the Latin Kings from a power group into a community-driven resource providing services and support. Under his leadership, the organization united mothers across New York City to form a coalition fighting against oppression and advocating for justice for mothers who had lost their children.
2009
A New Chapter: Returning to Serve
Upon his release, King Tone began rebuilding his life and credibility within the community. He worked tirelessly to prove he was a changed man, using his experiences to support others facing the same challenges he had overcome.
2017
Going Global: International Expansion
Grow Up Grow Out went international, establishing systems and offering support in Spain, Ecuador, and Sweden. The organization played a critical role in creating social systems that prioritized people over oppressive regimes.
2024
Building for the Future: Grow Up Grow Out Jr.
The nonprofit Grow Up Grow Out Jr. was established to support youth and prevent them from falling into the system. By providing mentorship and guidance, the initiative aimed to catch vulnerable young people before they faced the challenges King Tone had experienced, offering them a pathway to success.
1998
Targeted for Change: Sentencing and Incarceration
Seen as a threat for his influence and advocacy, Antonio "King Tone" Fernandez was sentenced to 12-15 years in prison. This marked a turning point in his life and the beginning of a journey of reflection and transformation.
2015
Establishing a Mission: Grow Up Grow Out
Antonio "King Tone" Fernandez founded Grow Up Grow Out, a for-profit entity dedicated to community transformation. Partnering with organizations and communities in Washington, D.C., the initiative focused on mentorship, credible messengers, and systemic change.
2018
National Recognition: The First Convening
The first National Credible Messenger Convening was held in Washington, D.C., and brought together over 1,000 Credible Messengers from across the country. This monumental event united stakeholders, advocates, and practitioners to advance the movement's vision, share best practices, and strengthen their collective impact.