and in many cases, a much needed minority perspective to support the building of a more equitable society—one where opportunities abound, regardless of race or background. My journey is a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship and community support, and it’s a journey I’m honored to share and continue alongside the CBCC and countless others striving for a brighter, more inclusive future. This vision of a more inclusive future is what inspired me in 2006 to create the Urban Leadership Foundation - ULF CONNECT Leadership program (formerly known as Chamber Connect), an intense 10 month leadership training experience designed to help participants become more effective, well rounded, and influential leaders in the areas of business, politics and community leadership. As an entrepreneur, I habitually identify and develop solutions for unfulfilled needs in the community, and the need for a program like this was immense. While there were numerous developmental programs in other communities, the African American community had no programs to identify, harvest and nurture up and coming
professionals in this manner. Therefore, I designed a program to address this need using some conventional strategies, but also adding some unique features to “speak to” some of the specific challenges in the African American community. I also inserted sufficient fundraising opportunities to ensure financial viablity. Joined by former State Senator Angela Williams, who at the time was a fellow CBCC board member, we “pitched” the program to the CBCC for support and permission to operate as a CBCC program. Angela and I dedicated the first two years to teaching the program, sharing our insights and experiences. We also utilized our extensive networks to establish strategic partnerships with key organizations, including the Denver Downtown Partnership, Daniels Fund, and the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, further enriching the program’s offerings and impact. Like many startups, the Chamber Connect program initially faced funding challenges. However, thanks to my entrepreneurial success, I was able to fund the program until it became self-sufficient. Eventually, the CBCC transitioned the Chamber
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The Acumen
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