Empowering Through Leadership: Life After You Can't Fail Leadership Learning Community

In a world where being "the first" or "the only one" can be both a source of pride and a burden, finding a community that understands and supports those experiences is invaluable. For me, that community came in the form of the You Can't Fail (YCF) Leadership program. In this blog post, I'll share my journey through the program, the impact it had on my professional development, and why investing in diverse talent through programs like YCF Leadership Learning Community (LLC) is crucial for building inclusive workforces.

Finding My Tribe:

The moment I heard the words, "Walk like you have more than 400 ancestors behind you," during my YCF LLC Graduation celebration, something inside me shifted. Finally, I was surrounded by women who shared similar experiences – being the "firsts" and the "only ones" in various aspects of life and career. It was a profound moment of validation and empowerment, knowing that I wasn't alone in my journey.

The YCF Leadership Experience:

You Can't Fail offered a comprehensive leadership development program tailored to the needs of women like me – women of color navigating corporate America. Founded by the visionary Gwen Webber-McLeod, President/CEO Gwen, Inc. and expertly led by Program Director/Lead Mentor, Melody Smith Johnson, the Leadership Learning Community provided a supportive environment for growth and learning. Through a series of training courses, collaborative opportunities, and shared experiences, I honed my leadership skills and gained confidence in my abilities.

Investing in Diverse Talent:

One of the critical aspects of You Can't Fail is its commitment to investing in diverse talent. In many organizations, professional development opportunities for BIPOC employees are often overlooked. YCF fills this gap by providing a safe space for growth and success. As a result of my participation in the program, I've seen firsthand the tangible benefits of investing in diverse talent – from landing consulting opportunities to securing a leadership position in my field.

Paving the Way for Future Leaders:

Beyond personal growth, YCF is paving the way for future leaders of color. By equipping participants with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their careers, the program is creating a pipeline of talented professionals who will drive positive change in their communities and organizations. Supporting programs like You Can't Fail isn't just an investment in individual careers – it's an investment in building a more inclusive workforce and society.

My journey with You Can't Fail has been transformative, empowering me to embrace my identity as a leader of color and leverage my experiences for the greater good. Through this program, I've found my tribe, honed my skills, and secured opportunities I once only dreamed of. As I continue to walk forward, I carry with me the lessons learned and the support of a community that believes in the power of diverse leadership. And I'm grateful for the chance to pay it forward by encouraging others to invest in programs like You Can't Fail LLC, where the next generation of leaders is waiting to thrive.

This article was contributed by Dora Jones, MPA; Founder of Casa Consulting Services, LLC; You Can’t Fail, Inc. Leadership Learning Community Class of 2023 Alumna.