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Emerging Leaders Program

Cultivate Your Potential for Community Transformation

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The Emerging Leaders Program is not being offered during the 2026–27 academic year,

Join training for Oakland's next generation of Community Change-Makers.

The Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) at the Leadership Institute at Allen Temple identifies and develops passionate individuals who demonstrate the potential to create meaningful impact in Oakland and the Bay Area.

Who This Program Is For

This highly selective program combines intensive training, hands-on experience, and personal mentorship to equip participants with the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to address critical challenges facing urban communities. Our program seeks dedicated individuals who are:

  • Committed to servant leadership principles
  • Passionate about community organizing and social change
  • Interested in addressing issues like violence reduction, reentry services, environmental justice, and health disparities
  • Ready to engage with stakeholders at all levels—from neighborhood residents to city executives
  • Willing to dedicate time to both classroom learning and community-based projects
Apply Now

Program Experience

As an Emerging Leader, you'll participate in a comprehensive development experience that includes:

  • Interactive lectures from renowned leaders and practitioners
  • Personal mentorship from experienced community organizers
  • Real-world community service initiatives and projects
  • Exposure to a diverse network of community stakeholders
  • Development of practical leadership and organizing skills
  • In-depth understanding of the cultural, social, and political frameworks that shape urban communities
Apply Now
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Key Dates

Orientation Session: TBD 

Classes begin: TBD

Late Registration Ends: TBD

Last Day to Drop Classes: TBD

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The ELP Difference

The Emerging Leaders Program offers a unique approach that sets it apart from our Certificate in Civic Engagement program:

  • Selective application process
  • Hands-on, experiential learning approach
  • Personal mentorship component
  • Direct networking with community leaders and officials
  • Emphasis on immediate application of learning
  • Revolutionary writing module during intersession

While many participants pursue both programs simultaneously through dual enrollment, the ELP provides a more immersive, application-focused experience complementing the academic foundation of the Certificate program.

Learn More About ELP Difference

What Participants Say

"What has resonated with me is we are ultimately being prepared for a moment in time where either collectively or individually we'll speak to power with confidence and the full knowledge of the issues addressed and in the same moment present solutions." 

—Scott B., McGee Avenue BC, Berkeley
"The Community Organizing class was incredibly informative, and the Emerging Leaders sessions have heightened my awareness on efforts underway in the community to address issues pertaining to violence prevention or reduction, re-entry issues and health disparities." 

—JoAn M., Allen Temple BC, Oakland

Have Questions?

Visit our comprehensive FAQ section to learn more about the application process, time commitment, program structure, and outcomes.

Take Your First Step as a Community Catalyst
Are you ready to develop the skills, knowledge, and connections to create meaningful change in your community? The Emerging Leaders Program offers a transformative experience that will prepare you to address critical challenges facing urban communities with confidence and effectiveness.
Apply Now

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