As a participant in the inaugural cohort of the African American Leadership Academy of Charlotte (AALAC), I am excited to share my journey and experiences. This program, originally established in Ohio in 2005, has now branched out to Charlotte, and its impact on Black leaders like myself has been nothing short of transformative. In the Fall of 2023, fourteen leaders from the region’s leading companies and organizations embarked on a journey together to go through AALAC. This spring, the fellows successfully completed and graduated as lifelong friends, fully empowered to reach new heights.
What does the program offer?
AALAC offers a comprehensive, intentional curriculum that includes leadership training and personal development. This program is designed to nurture and empower African American leaders, providing tools, social capital, and confidence needed for fellows to excel in their fields, and be better prepared for C-suite positions, board positions, and my favorite strength… community impact.
How is the program structured?
We met monthly for at least one full day, some months involved a Friday and Saturday, and other sessions were shorter. We completed a series of assessments, including DiSC and CliftonStrengths. It was fun to see everyone’s results and learn about each other on a deeper level. There were several group activities cultivating opportunities to get to know other fellows better, discover synergies and provide support. Accountability partners help everyone stay connected to at least one other person throughout the journey and have deeper insights into each other’s day-to-day lives. The program facilitator, Audra Bohannon, is a rock star and has such a creative way of guiding our sessions. The six months of coaching by Korn Ferry for each fellow is invaluable. I am so grateful for my coach, Ryan Frechette, who was excellent at helping me to reflect and reframe. Our last group session prior to graduation included a weekend of presentations by each fellow, sharing lessons learned based on the 5 Cs: clarity, challenges, career, connections, and community. In that were many laughs, cheers, tears, and words of encouragement.
My most memorable learnings
AALAC offers a unique experience tailored specifically to the needs and challenges faced by Black leaders. The program provides a safe space for fellows to discuss issues openly and learn from each other’s experiences. Here are a few lessons that were most memorable and impactful for me:
- Always consider efficacy, making pragmatic moves that will support me in advancing my life.
- Lack of clarity empowers other people to make decisions for you. You need a North Star to have a strong sense of direction.
- Lean on what you don’t know, not solely on what you know. This ensures you become a willing learner and attain the knowledge needed to excel and navigate unfamiliar environments.
- Every decision has a benefit and a cost. Evaluate and act accordingly.
Build a strong network and social capital
One of the most valuable aspects of AALAC is the network and social capital it provides. This network extends beyond the local community, linking participants with alumni and leaders from the Ohio program, fostering a robust and supportive community.
Empowerment and personal growth
AALAC emphasizes personal growth alongside professional development. The program encourages participants to reflect on their leadership styles, strengths, and areas for improvement. Through the various exercises and feedback sessions, I gained a deeper understanding of myself as a long-time community leader and more deeply tapped into how to leverage my unique strengths to effect positive, legacy-based change.
Learn more and take action!
If you are a Black leader looking to enhance your leadership skills, build a strong network, and make a meaningful impact in your community, AALAC is the program for you.The lessons learned and connections made during the program are invaluable assets that will benefit you long after the program ends. Learn more about the African American Leadership Academy of Charlotte and be part of a community dedicated to empowering the next generation of Black leaders.
