What’s happening: A new initiative to develop and empower the next generation of Black leaders in Memphis has been announced by the Young Realtist Division in partnership with the Memphis Urban League. Applications for the 12-week-long program, the Realtist Institute of Leadership, are available now through Monday, Jan. 15.
What it is: The Realtist Institute of Leadership will provide emerging Black leaders with the training and resources necessary to develop leadership skills, focusing on topics of culturally relevant leadership, empowerment, and self-efficacy, as well as those skills necessary for driving organizational and societal impact. They’ll do so by way of virtual classes and workshops led by expert course facilitators and guest speakers, and more.
Why it’s important: “Through this series of workshops, we hope to build a legacy of transformation and equity in leadership,” says YRD National President Rasheedah Jones. “This is a unique convergence of practical knowledge and theoretical exploration designed to answer the profound questions of ‘why’ and ‘how’ in leadership, specifically tailored for Black professionals,” says YRD National President Rasheedah Jones.”
How it works: The Realtist Institute of Leadership will be a 12-week virtual course that runs from February through April 2024, with Memphis Mayor-Elect Paul Young confirmed as the keynote speaker to address the inaugural class. Scholarships are available to qualifying applicants, and more information about the program, costs, and application process can be had by contacting Rasheedah Jones at
[email protected] or (901) 335-5098.
Who’s behind it: The Young Realtist Division, an affiliate of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, launched in 1997 to foster professional growth and development in young minority professionals in the real estate industry with a special focus on building black wealth through home ownership. Memphis Urban League is the local affiliate of the National Urban League, which itself exists to empower Black people and other underserved communities nationwide and at home.
What they’re saying: “Having Mayor Young as our keynote speaker underscores the importance and impact of this program in our community. Like Mayor Young, those who join The Realtist® Institute of Leadership have a strong desire to have a positive impact on the community,” says Wayne Gillard, head of workforce and economic development for Memphis Urban League.
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