The African American Leadership Forum’s (AALF) Collective Impact Task Force includes 12 Black leaders from across Minnesota; each with a unique skillset and community engagement experience. These leaders are chosen via an application and interview process, and focus on Education, Health & Wellness, Economic Development, and Family & Culture in the Black community to bring about change.
We recently reached out to one of our Task Force members to get their insights on what’s happening in the program.
Schroeder: In Collective Impact Task Force we’re currently talking about equity, justice, empowerment and creating sustained fundamental progress in the Black community. This relates to my personal community engagement experiences as it provides an approach that is more focused on institutional and systemic level change.
Of AALF’s four leadership personas (Ambassador, Builder, Influencer, and Thought Leader), I most identify as a Builder because I like to take in information and figure out ways to build programs, events, and institutions that drive long-term change.
Since beginning the program I’ve learned that I’m at my best when I’m building bridges. When I can connect dots, people and ideas across boundaries (real or perceived) I’m most energized and impactful. I believe AALF’s Collective Impact work is relevant because it’s the work that drives sustained change in the areas the Black community needs it most. The approach of harnessing the community through leadership personas is incredibly innovative.
Learn more about the African American Leadership Forum’s (AALF) Collective Impact Task Force.