The LatinoLEAD Avanzando Liderazgo Program

The ALP cohort has achieved the stated outcomes from our original grant proposal. The 2021-2022 cohort of 12 fellows successfully completed the program. Many of the fellows have continued on with LatinoLEAD in different roles to remain engaged in the ALP programming and/or be a part of other programmatic work. ALP's 2022-2023 cohort is currently in progress. Between the two cohorts, LatinoLEAD staff in collaboration with leaders across sectors revised the curriculum to better meet the needs of the Latine community. The current cohort has had very positive feedback on the programming to date.
These are some comments made by members of the current ALP cohort: I've never thought of myself as having power so being able to reflect and understanding that there is a ton of power I can harness to help build our collective power was a strong realization
Fellows specifically valuing the curricular improvements like the antiracist workshop as much neededand the University of Michigan's Social Action, Leadership, and Transformation Model; The ALP cohort has achieved the stated outcomes from our original grant proposal. The 2021-2022 cohort of 12 fellows successfully completed the program. Many of the fellows have continued on with LatinoLEAD in different roles to remain engaged in the ALP programming and/or be a part of other programmatic work. ALP's 2022-2023 cohort is currently in progress. Between the two cohorts, LatinoLEAD staff in collaboration with leaders across sectors revised the curriculum to better meet the needs of the Latine community. The current cohort has had very positive feedback on the programming to date.
Here are written comments from one of our participants:Good morning, esteemed guests, faculty members, and my fellow graduates. It is an honor to stand before you today as we celebrate our graduation. I want to express my deepest gratitude to all those who have supported us throughout this transformative journey. This includes everyone here, those who are not here with us now, and those who are with us in spirit.
As I reflect on my experience in the program, three words come to mind: discovering, empowering, and healing. Each of us has had a unique path, and I have been moved by the vulnerability and strength displayed by my fellow cohort members as we created and shared our stories of self.
Growing up as a member of the Latino community, I have faced numerous challenges. From discrimination to incarceration, hurdles in accessing capital to being affected by the housing crisis, I have encountered my fair share of adversity. I've had to navigate collection calls, immigration discussions within my family, and the pain of witnessing friends and family deported or self-deported. Moments of fear, frustration, and grief have left their mark.
You might look at someone who has faced these obstacles and wonder how they haven't already quit and become totally resigned. The LatinoLEAD ALP revealed a truth that I had with me all along but was undistinguished, I learned the importance of taking risks despite the environment and persevering even in the face of failure. These experiences have fueled my determination to bring about positive change, ensuring that future generations do not suffer unjustly.
One of the invaluable lessons we learned in this program is the Social Change Ecosystem Framework. It has allowed us to identify the unique roles we can play within the broader ecosystem. For me, one role I aspire to is that of a healer. I believe in the power of empathy, compassion, and addressing the underlying wounds that plague our communities.
Healers are conscious of the various layers, wounds, and traumas that need attention at multiple levels (individually, organizationally, and societally) and understand their interconnections. Healers recognized the importance of holding space for our wounds while also offering approaches to transform them into wisdom and strength. They refocus our attention on accountability and repair while guiding us through moments and spaces of deep vulnerability.
Looking at the incredible group of graduates before me, I am in awe. We represent a tapestry of backgrounds, spanning all sectors from non-profits to government, education to the private sector. We come from different walks of life, diverse countries, and varied immigration experiences. We are beautiful, and we are powerful.
Together, we embody the potential to become the transformational leaders our communities need. As we move forward, let us remember that our impact extends far beyond our individual spheres of influence. Together, we can collaborate, support one another, and ignite a collective fire that will blaze a trail of progress. However, this will require us to take risks, to connect, to work, to listen, to share, to demand, to show up.
Personal narratives have the power to foster social change. By sharing our stories and values, we can disrupt the dominant narrative that often marginalizes and silences us. Our stories can challenge stereotypes, shift perspectives, and inspire action.
As we step into our roles as leaders, let us be intentional about amplifying diverse voices. Let us create platforms and initiatives that empower others to share their narratives and experiences. By doing so, we not only uplift individuals but also contribute to the creation of a more inclusive and equitable society.
In conclusion, I implore you, my fellow graduates and all those present, to embrace risk, fail beautifully, and repeat. Take that leap of faith, knowing that failure is not the end but a stepping stone on the path to success. Develop a callus for failure. Let us be unafraid to learn from our mistakes and persevere in the face of adversity. Keep moving forward.
In our pursuit of social change, let us be the change-makers, the bridge-builders, and the healers, weavers, experimenters, frontline responders, visionaries, builders, caregivers, disrupters, storytellers, and guides our communities need. Together, we can create a future where everyone's voice is valued, where justice and equality prevail, and where no one is left behind. A future of equity, liberation, justice, and solidarity.
As we embark on our individual journeys, let us remember the power of unity, the strength of our collective voice, and the resilience that resides within us. Congratulations, ALP Class of 2023. The world awaits our impact. Thank you.