LeadBoston Applications for the Class of 2021 are now open

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YW Boston is thrilled to announce we are now accepting applications for our leadership program LeadBoston.

For almost thirty years, LeadBoston has met Boston organizations’ demand for more inclusive leadership by equipping mid- to senior-level professionals with the knowledge, skills, and network to propel their leadership, and their organizations’ success, forward. 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. Do not miss the opportunity to take your leadership to the next level by applying to join the Class of 2021.

Why LeadBoston?

It is imperative for today’s leaders to be responsive to increased demands for racial equity. As leaders think about diversity, equity, and inclusion, they must understand how their organizations both impact and are influenced by systems. Only with a firm grasp of this context can leaders make decisions that enable their organizations, and the broader city, to thrive. Employers who sponsor participants will benefit from increased employee engagement and loyalty, and access to a broader network of local leaders.

After LB, graduates report:
-89%

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 learning, participants delve into the socioeconomic realities of Boston and explore innovative solutions to inequity. Participants will gain a strengthened ability to lead inclusive efforts in their workplace, improved collaboration, communication, decision-making, and strategic thinking skills, an in-depth understanding of metro Boston’s socio-economic environment, as well as connections to a diverse network of inclusive professionals across the city.

Employers benefit from their employees’ participation in LeadBoston, too. Employees will bring their skills and connections back to the workplace, including their strengthened ability to understand stakeholders’ needs, solve challenges, and make better business decisions. The program also expands the organization’s access to key leaders and institutions. LeadBoston is an excellent way to reward high-potential individuals and prepare them for greater leadership responsibilities.

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.

If LeadBoston does not seem like a good fit for you, consider sharing the opportunity with a colleague 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 will be added will be evaluated periodically and based on state guidelines

The LeadBoston Class of 2020 participating in their April program day via Zoom.

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

Each month will focus on a particular topic, most often looking closely at particular systemic issues Boston faces. For instance, one month will focus on "Class & Poverty," while the next looks closely at Boston's education system.

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 socioeconomic realities of Boston and explore innovative solutions to inequity. Reach out to Rachael McCoy (rmccoy@ywboston.org), LeadBoston Managerwith any further questions about LeadBoston.