For almost 30 years, LeadBoston has been meeting organizational demand for more inclusive leadership. This cohort-based leadership program equips mid- to senior-level professionals with the knowledge, skills, and network
to ensure their success within increasingly diversifying markets and workforces. 2021 marks the 30th anniversary of this prominent YW Boston program. As the COVID-19 pandemic and upcoming elections continue to cast a cloud of uncertainty on the year ahead, it is imperative for leaders to think about how their organization, employees, and stakeholders are impacted by systems and institutions. Leaders have to be equipped to address challenges, barriers, and opportunities for greater diversity, equity, and inclusion.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, LeadBoston’s typical in-person structure has been adapted to take place online. As a result, participants are able to immerse themselves within institutions in the city, connect with key players in Boston, and network with fellow participants and LeadBoston alumni within the safety of their own homes, offices, or working spaces. Don’t miss the opportunity to take your leadership to the next level and apply for the Class of 2021. Applications are open through November 6, 2020.

“It’s critically important that people within the organization have a broad understanding of issues facing the community and how the organization they’re working in can best address them.”

– Dr. Peter L. Slavin, President at Massachusetts General Hospital, LeadBoston Partner

During this unique, 11-month cohort-based program, participants explore barriers to inclusion through facilitated dialogue, expert speakers, and peer learning. Upon graduating, participants join the largest network of inclusive leaders in Boston. Employers who sponsor participants will benefit from increased employee engagement and loyalty, and access to a broader network of local leaders.

Participating LeadBoston partners include:

What are the benefits of LeadBoston?

• Strengthened ability to understand stakeholders’ needs, solve challenging problems, and make better business decisions.
• Gaining a deeper understanding of metro Boston’s socio-economic environment and its impact on customers, clients, and employees.
• Exposure to influential leaders in key institutions through monthly program days.
• Gaining access to a network of diverse professionals from a variety of sectors and industries throughout Greater Boston.

Who joins LeadBoston?

LeadBoston is a cohort program, accepting a class of around 40 mid- to senior-level professionals per year. Representing the gamut of Boston’s professional, racial, ethnic, faith, and gender diversity, LeadBostonians are typically leaders with 15 to 30 years of experience and who have the ability to influence change within their organization. Each class is carefully selected to ensure diversity within the group with respect to gender, race, ethnicity, and professional background. This structure connects leaders across sectors, who then go on to collaborate in business and social ventures. Check out the members of the Class of 2020.

Know someone who would be a great fit for LeadBoston? Consider sharing the opportunity with a colleague, an employee, or making a referral.

What will the program look like for the Class of 2021?

Each month, participants gather virtually to discuss pressing issues and trends and hear first-hand from civic leaders, community organizers, business people, and academics. Through curated content and responsive programming, participants gain direct insight into key institutions and levers for change, strengthening their skills as leaders committed to advancing equity within their organizations and the broader community. The program includes opportunities to connect with classmates, as well as access to networking, educational, and social opportunities with LeadBoston’s extensive alumni network.

The program year is January through November and will take place over Zoom, allowing participants to engage with fellow leaders and expert panelists from their homes, offices, or remote locations. LeadBoston is committed to ensuring the safety of its staff and participants. Determination of whether in-person meetings can occur will be evaluated periodically and based on state guidelines.

The program is structured around a monthly cadence:
• Week 1: Self-paced, topical pre-work
• Week 2: A live four-hour facilitated virtual session
• Week 3: A live 90-minute facilitated follow-up session
• Week 4: Flexible opportunities to connect and network socially

Ready to take your leadership to the next level?

The application to join LeadBoston is open through November 6, 2020. Applicants are accepted on a rolling basis and are encouraged to apply early as admission is competitive. Apply by September 11, 2020 for early consideration and admission to the class. Applicants who pass the first round of the application form will be invited, on a rolling basis, for an interview with a LeadBoston alum.

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About LeadBoston

Become a part of YW Boston’s LeadBoston program and join a network of over 1,000 inclusive leaders in Boston. During this 11-month program, participants explore and learn how to address barriers to inclusion through facilitated dialogue, expert speakers, and peer learning. Through experiential activities, participants delve into the socio-economic realities of Boston and explore innovative solutions to inequity. Reach out to Rachael McCoy (rmccoy@ywboston.org), LeadBoston Manager, with any further questions about LeadBoston.