The Leaders of Color program launched in 2018 to elevate the tremendous talent of community-based leaders of color. Since then, 116 leaders have emerged from the program ready to bring change to their communities. These are their stories.

‍Meet Tim Green Jr. -  a Leaders of Color alum from our class of 2018 in Memphis. 

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‍Q: Why did you apply to be part of the Leaders of Color program? What inspires you to get involved in civic leadership?

I applied to be a part of the Leaders of Color program because I wanted to learn more about being a candidate. I knew what seat I wanted to pursue, but I had no idea how to campaign.

Q: Did the program help you in your career or with leadership opportunities? How are you thinking about your future based on what you experience with Leaders of Color?

Leaders of Color prepared me to run for office, but also taught me how to be a campaign operative. I learned about every role that’s imperative to running a successful campaign. I also appreciate the network that Leaders of Color has created. 

Q: Tell us about an a-ha moment you had about your own leadership abilities and how that has changed your vision for yourself.

Being a campaign manager for a state representative race showed me that I could see myself as a candidate but it also helped me figure out what kind of campaign I wanted to have as well. It opened my eyes to how important it is to have a support system that believes in you enough to handle situations without being asked.

Q: What advice do you have for people who are thinking about becoming leaders of their own communities?

Don’t wait to start. Get your feet on the ground and make change now. Don’t wait until it is time to have a petition signing. If you are already doing the work of the people, the people will do some work for you.

‍Q: Please share your favorite inspiring quote!

"Those who say it can't be done are usually interrupted by others doing it.” -James Baldwin