As the U.S. population increases, it is projected that by 2050, Latinos will make up 29% of the country’s population. This means that one out of three individuals in this country will be Latino. That’s a powerful statement.
Now that the Latino presence has been established in the United States, it is imperative that we make our voices heard to create change and empower our communities. How do we do this? It has been said that “The price of greatness is responsibility”; and in order for the Latino voice to be heard, it is our responsibility to come together, and have leaders in our communities who will advocate for the needs of our people. Therefore, it is important that we as Latinos educate ourselves and be able to rise to leadership positions that will greatly impact the future of Latinos in this country.
One of the definitions of leadership is “the act of guiding and directing.” As Latinos, we are natural born leaders. Many of us made the decision to immigrate to this country and have overcome the challenges of learning a new language and culture, while also dealing with poverty and crime in many of our communities.
For those of us who are children of immigrants, our leadership has lied within the challenges of successfully integrating our Latino and American cultures while at the same time navigating our way through education and jobs. Because of these experiences, Latinos across the United States share many of the same challenges and have unknowingly lead the way for future Latino generations to come.
If you are ready to be a true leader and bring about the changes needed in your community, consider the benefits of participating in a leadership training program. No matter where you currently are in your career path, these programs can help emerging and established leaders develop a diverse set of leadership skills, including management, community building and executive leadership skills.
The best part of Latina leadership programs is the wonderful opportunity to connect, interact and learn from other Latinas who are as talented, ambitious and passionate as you are about leadership.
We compiled a short list of Latina leadership training programs and leadership networks/organizations for you! Please add your favorite local/regional leadership training programs, organizations or networks!
Latina Leadership Training Programs
National Hispana Leadership Institute
Mestiza Leadership International, Inc.
Hispanas Organized for Political Equality
Latino Leadership Development Program
UCLA Anderson- Latino Leadership Institute
Harvard Kennedy School – Latino Leadership Initiative
Center for Hispanic Leadership
Leadership Organizations and Networks
National Latina Leadership Network - on Facebook
Latina Leadership Network of the Community Colleges
Do you belong to a Leadership Training Program or Network? If so, please share your experiences with us below.
Print 
PDF
