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Valley Leadership’s latest Dinner & Dialogue series brought Arizonans together across lines of difference to address the state’s housing and homelessness challenges. Discover the critical community takeaways from these conversations, including how we can balance immediate short-term relief with long-term systemic change.
In honor of pride month, we’re highlighting an inspiring mentorship duo from the New Pathways for Youth program. This interview spotlights a duo whose bond embodies the values of integrity, authenticity, and leadership.
Every leadership journey is an opportunity to look closely at the systems, histories, and innovations that shape our state. For Valley Leadership’s Explore Class 5, our recent program day in Downtown Mesa offered a powerful look at how history, culture, entrepreneurship, and intentional community investment intersect. From grassroots anti-displacement advocacy to small business collaboration and cutting-edge innovation, the cohort saw firsthand how communities thrive when leaders work together to ensure growth benefits everyone.
Join Valley Leadership’s Explore Class 5 as we go behind the scenes to learn how local Buckeye leaders are balancing massive infrastructure innovation with a steadfast commitment to heritage, sustainability, and community connection.
Join Valley Leadership’s Explore Class 5 as we go behind the scenes to learn how local Buckeye leaders are balancing massive infrastructure innovation with a steadfast commitment to heritage, sustainability, and community connection.
Explore Class 5’s journey through South Phoenix was more than a tour—it was an invitation to lead with heart. From urban gardens to cultural galleries, our cohort experienced firsthand how heritage and storytelling drive community resilience. Discover how local leaders are anchoring the region’s future in equity, adaptability, and a deep pride in place.
Explore Class 5 traveled to Nogales, Arizona and Sonora, gaining firsthand insight into the region’s economic, cultural, and community connections, from the port of entry and produce industry to public art, entrepreneurship, and migration. The experience highlighted the deep interdependence of border communities and challenged participants to think more holistically about Arizona’s future.
The Explore Class 5 trip to Yuma and San Luis was an immersive two-day experience engaging with local leaders across agriculture, education, law enforcement, and the arts along the U.S.-Mexico border. Through visits to institutions like Arizona Western College and conversations with entrepreneurs and public servants, the journey brought the group’s core themes of equity, adaptability, and interconnectedness to life.
Explore Class 5 kicked off with Foundations Day, bringing participants together to connect, learn, and begin exploring the communities and issues shaping Arizona’s future. From Arizona history and water policy to team-building and leadership insights, the day set the stage for a statewide journey grounded in Valley Leadership’s Principles of Doing.
In honor of Women’s History Month, we sit down with Stephanie Bermudez, founder of Startup Unidos, to explore how she’s building cross-border innovation ecosystems and expanding opportunity for women entrepreneurs. Hear how her leadership journey is shaping what’s possible along the borderlands.
As Explore enters its fifth year, a new cohort of leaders begins a statewide journey rooted in listening, connection, and community learning. Meet Explore Class 5 and the communities shaping their experience. Learn more about the newest cohort of leaders and this year’s program.
Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a look at Change Labs’s Pitch Your Hustle competition and the Native entrepreneurs driving impact across Arizona. Learn more about how our Explore alumni were able to support this important community event.