Josie R. Johnson Leadership Academy

Grass with dandelions

What does it mean to lead while honoring your whole self?

How do you carve out space for your own healing, growth, and imagination while carrying the weight of community needs and expectations? How can leadership be an act of self-care, a reclamation of joy, and a bold reimagining of what’s possible?

These are the soul-stirring questions that many Black leaders wrestle with—and JRJLA provides the sacred space to explore them. 

At the Dr. Josie R. Johnson Leadership Academy (JRJLA), we don’t just develop leaders—we nurture visionaries, change agents, and bridge-builders who will shape the future of Black communities in Minnesota. Dr. Josie R. Johnson—civil rights pioneer, educator, and lifelong advocate for justice—has dedicated her life to uplifting Black communities and fostering strong, principled leadership. This fellowship bears her name to honor her unwavering commitment to racial equity and leadership development, ensuring that her legacy of empowerment and advocacy continues to inspire generations of Black leaders.

She once said, “If our early ancestors could survive what they had to survive, then surely I can continue to hold my head up and live in the tradition of my ancestors.”

Our ancestors were visionaries and architects of resilience who carved possibilities from the impossible. This fellowship is rooted in that truth—the knowledge that we stand on the shoulders of giants, and we have a duty to honor their sacrifices by leading with purpose, courage, and vision. Our leadership is an extension of their dreams, a manifestation of their wisdom, and a divine calling to shape a future where we thrive in our fullness.

Timeline

Six months of the year. Held annually.

Stipend

Awarded to fellow upon completion of academy training.

Location

Various locations in the Twin Cities.

The Journey

This is not your typical leadership program. This is an experience rooted in lived realities, in the wisdom of elders and mentors, and in the unshakable belief that when Black leaders rise, entire communities rise with them.

For many fellows, this is the first time they will have space to step away from the demands of constantly showing up for others and instead turn inward—to reflect, to rejuvenate, and to fully embrace the truth of who they are. JRJLA is a sanctuary for Black leaders to reclaim their time, nourish their spirits, and cultivate a vision rooted in their deepest aspirations. Fellows will immerse themselves in an exploration of Black identity, personal power, and the limitless possibilities that emerge when they allow themselves the space to dream boldly and unapologetically—to reflect, to heal, and to reclaim the leaders they envision themselves as. Fellows will dive deep into their Black identity, explore their personal and professional aspirations, and gain the confidence to move forward as empowered, self-assured leaders.

Each fellow—one of 20 in this year’s cohort—will engage in immersive learning experiences designed to sharpen their leadership identity, expand their network, and ignite their potential. They’ll be paired with a Torchbearer, a seasoned community leader who will mentor, champion, and advocate for them every step of the way. In addition, fellows will receive personalized executive coaching to support their growth both professionally and personally.

With over 150 alumni leaders having completed this program, JRJLA isn’t just about leadership—it’s about legacy. It’s about equipping Black leaders with the tools, relationships, and confidence to shape the future.

Who Should Answer the Call?

We are looking for Black leaders from all walks of life—across generations, industries, and experience levels—who lead with heart, vision, and purpose. Whether you are a seasoned professional, an emerging leader, or someone redefining your path, JRJLA is a space to grow, build, and thrive in community.

  • Black leaders across Minnesota from all sectors—corporate, nonprofit, entrepreneurship, activism, education, and beyond.
  • Self-identified leaders who are ready to expand their leadership capacity and sharpen their skills.
  • Committed individuals who can dedicate themselves to this immersive, in-person experience.
  • Growth-minded changemakers who are ready to learn, unlearn, and reimagine leadership through a Black-centered lens.

2025 Cohort Dates

All sessions are in-person from 9 AM to 3 PM unless noted otherwise.

▶ June 17—Virtual Orientation (6 PM – 7 PM)
▶ June 27
▶ June 28 (Saturday Session)
▶ July 11
▶ August 15
▶ August 19—Optional Virtual Session (6 PM – 7:30 PM)
▶ September 19
▶ October 17
▶ October 21—Optional Virtual Session (6 PM – 7:30 PM)
▶ November 14
▶ November 15—(Saturday: Graduation & Community Celebration)

Program Pillars

  • Leadership isn’t just about what you do—it’s about how you dream. Fellows will explore leadership through the lens of identity, radical imagination, and self-discovery. They’ll engage with diverse perspectives, apply groundbreaking frameworks, and refine their leadership philosophies through real-world application.

  • Dr. Johnson’s words remind us that leadership is about service and responsibility. JRJLA centers Blackness as an asset, ensuring each fellow leaves with a Black-centered self-care and sustainability plan—because our leadership cannot thrive if we are not well. Through reflection, dialogue, and cultural affirmation, fellows will stand rooted in the richness of their heritage as they lead forward.

  • We learn by doing. This program is designed to provide the time, space, and structure for fellows to explore who they are as leaders and where they are going. Each fellow will develop a Legacy Growth Blueprint—a living document that captures their self-discovery, leadership evolution, and real-time impact. This blueprint will highlight their strengths, areas for growth, and a vision for their future, ensuring they leave with a tangible plan for continued leadership.

  • No leader rises alone. Each fellow will be paired with a Torchbearer mentor, a seasoned leader who has walked this path before and is dedicated to lighting the way for fellow leaders. Additionally, every fellow will receive one-on-one executive coaching, tailored to their aspirations and challenges.

  • Black leadership doesn’t happen in isolation. Fellows will gain access to an expansive intergenerational network of Black leaders—including over 150 program alumni and influential changemakers—ensuring their leadership journey continues long after the program ends.

Our Fellows

  • Airrion Williams

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  • Amber Shannon

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  • Ashlyn Crawford

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  • Ayolanda Evans Mack

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  • Christopher Guy

  • Dr. Amanda Bolton

    LinkedIn

  • Dr. Gabriel Warren

    LinkedIn

  • Gabriel L. Ijjo

    LinkedIn

  • Gage Urvina

    LinkedIn

  • Hassan As-Sidiq

  • Holly Bishu

    LinkedIn

  • Joshua (Brotha Ase) Gillespie

    LinkedIn

  • Khamara Pettus

    LinkedIn

  • Lachelle Cunningham

    LinkedIn

  • LaTricia Tate

  • Muna Abdullahi

    LinkedIn

  • Nicole Pacini

    LinkedIn

  • Ryan McKee

  • Yasin Williams

    LinkedIn

  • Zanele Nyabusha

    LinkedIn

Testimonial

“This was an amazing experience and I look forward to staying connected with AALF and JRJLA for years to come!”

– JRJLA 2023 Fellow

Testimonial

“The Forum Leadership program has been a transformative journey for me, preparing me for the path that was meant for me…through this program, I’ve received invaluable support in various forms, including clarifying my purpose, learning the importance of self-care, and maintaining focus and resilience amidst challenges in my field. Moreover, I’ve created bonds with fellow participants who have become more than friends—they are now my extended family and unwavering support system. This program embodies Black excellence, empowering individuals to tap into their Black Magic and radiate brilliance in the world.”

– JRJLA 2023 Fellow