This week, CLF gathered across three dynamic sessions to strengthen the skills, mindset, and relationships needed to lead effectively in our communities.
Alumni reflected on what wellness looks like in practice, the importance of rest and recovery, and how maintaining balance helps leaders show up consistently for the people and communities they serve. This session was facilitated by LeShonne W. Quiñones Segura of The Luminary Collective.
Kendra M. Coleman and Alexandra Herrera, MBA of Kindred Organizational Consulting, Inc. helped Fellows advance their networking abilities through the Level Up Networking Series.
Finally, the Class of 2026 completed the final full day session of their cohort year at the Obama Foundation. Instructors included Lee Ann Eiland CLF ‘23 and Cassidy Golwick Priester. Special guests Bree Perry, Jaquanda Jones, and Ivan Adames informed the group about the Chicago fundraising and philanthropy climate. In the Leaders in Action Speaker Series, Executive leaders Bradly Johnson MPA, Dion Dawson, and Liz Siciliano shared insight into the challenges they face in their roles.
What a week!!😅
The Class of 2026 completed their first Friday session with support from the new CLF initiative: Legacy Deans. Alumni @weimpact180 , @nvision_us , and @n3ighborhood.h3ro hosted the Fellows at @alt__chicago in Austin. Elaine Marthel CLF ‘24 lead a training on vision using mirrors to help leaders identify the strength within.
Aisha Oliver CLF ‘23 becomes one of the newest members of the CLF Community Leadership Advisory Council. We are honored to have her on the team to embody the philosophy of lifting as you climb.
Aisha shared this statement:
“Preparation, positioning, and execution are essential to the growth and success of any leader. Community Leadership Fellows equips individuals with these critical tools, empowering them to elevate both personally and professionally. I’m proud to continue my journey with CLF as a board member and remain a resource to its alumni and future cohorts.”
We are excited to welcome a CLF alum to the Community Leadership Advisory Council. Ely Bahena CLF ‘23 joins the team to help build the vision for our future.
When asked about her new appointment, Ely shared this:
“Growing up in Little Village, I didn’t have mentors or spaces that helped me see myself as a leader. As a first-generation student and daughter of immigrants, I invested deeply in my community but rarely saw that same investment reflected back in me or my peers. Early on, I learned that “if you can’t see her, you can’t be her.” In searching for those spaces, I found CLF, which opened a door I didn’t know existed, a place that believed in me before I fully believed in myself. For the first time, I felt truly seen and empowered to lead with my whole heart.
Now, as a Council Advisory Member, it feels like a full circle moment. I carry my community and my journey with me, along with a powerful commitment to ensure CLF remains a place where West Side leaders know they belong and are empowered to lead.”
There’s still time to come out and cheer on the CLF team at Bulls Fest 3 on 3 tournament today. United Center Court 12. Next games 1:30pm and 3:00pm. Free event.
Welcome Class of 2026! Special thanks to @westsiderising for helping to pull off the Welcome Ceremony. #cohort4 #clf26 #westside #leadershipdevelopment
The Class of 2026 is kicking off their leadership journey this week at the @glnsummit The opening retreat continues today as cohort 4 fuels their passion with inspiration and motivation. #leadershipdevelopment #westside #community
Join us in welcoming the next cohort of Community Leadership Fellows!
The Class of 2026 will join the leadership development experience designed to uplift the emerging voices of those who live, work, and lead on the Westside. We are excited to welcome 17 promising community leaders who will begin a journey of self-discovery, collaboration, and transformation.
INTRODUCING THE 2026 COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP FELLOWS:
Antione Brewer | North Lawndale
* Program Manager | YMEN
Perriyana Clay | Austin
* Outreach & Partnerships Manager | Project Exploration
Jacqueline Covarrubias | Little Village
* Director of Learning & Development | The Alliance 98
Phillissa Dawson | Austin
* Safe Space Coordinator | The Austin Experience
Davonte Dudley | Austin
* Executive Director in training | Root2fruit
Teshauna Edwards | North Lawndale
* Program Director | Young Men’s Educational Network
Angelica Green | Austin
* 25th District Council Member | CCPSA
Jalesa Haggard | East Garfield Park
* Program Director/ Runner | Coach Across America/ Peace Runners 773
Langston Harris | Austin
* Austin Safety Liaison | Project Exploration
Kim Jay | West Garfield Park
* Training Manager, Consultant & Senior CHW | Sinai Urban Health Institute
Yesenia Juarez | Little Village
* Community Artist | Little Village Busy Bees
Rosondunnii Inell Marshall | West Humboldt Park
* Mental Health Consultant and Founder | ConTextos and The Darkroom Chicago
Keishjuan Owens | North Lawndale
* Case Manager / Founder | Ignite/ LumberJackPak
Stephen Ramsey | Austin
* Realtor | Coldwell Banker Realty
Jasmine Robinson | West Garfield Park
* Entrepreneur & Business Owner | P&C Catering
Diamond Trusty | East Garfield Park
* Owner | The Evelyn Experience
Nyedra Turner | East Garfield Park
* Field Manager/ Community Violence Intervention | Metropolitan Peace Initiatives
Congratulations to Janeicia Williams CLF ‘25 on chairing the 4th Annual Westside Youth Empowerment Conference! It was an uplifting commitment to support the youth from our beloved Westside. Congratulations to @nvision_us
