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.
Strong communities don’t just happen, they’re built by leaders who are willing to step up, work together, and drive meaningful change. Participating in a leadership program is more than a professional development opportunity; it’s a pathway to making a lasting difference in Arizona. Learn how you can take action today.
Valley Leadership’s 2024–2025 Impact Report highlights a year of growth and action through the Catalyze and Explore programs, engaging leaders across Arizona. From launching tools like the Mia and Opioid Toolkit chatbots to hosting community events and expanding Impact Teams, VL continues to drive meaningful change statewide.
Explore Class 4 wrapped up their statewide leadership journey with a day of deep reflection, creative expression through zine-making, and a celebration of connection, growth, and purpose-driven leadership across Arizona. Read more about their final Reflection Day and graduation celebration.
To celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, we asked VL alumni to share how their Hispanic heritage impacts their approach to leadership. Keep reading to hear from four of our VL leaders about their unique experiences and advice for other leaders.
113 Arizonans have been selected for the fourth Catalyze class. During the 6-month program, participants grow their connections to the people and issues that impact Arizona, while gaining new skills and experiences.
VL’s Explore Class 3 has successfully completed its journey! In mid-June, the cohort gathered for a day of final reflections and a celebratory dinner. This special occasion offered an opportunity for participants to creatively reflect on their shared experiences and strengthen their connections.
Explore Class 3’s visit to South Phoenix, Mesa, and Buckeye was full of adventures. Participants learned more about the stories, deep histories, and dreams for the future that each place represents from local leaders!
Explore Class 3’s second trip spent two days in “Ambos Nogales” (Spanish for “both Nogales”), which refers to the connecting border cities in Arizona and Mexico! The significance of this region for our larger state cannot be overstated, and there is an endless well of knowledge to gain during our visit.
Explore Class 3’s visit to the Yuma and San Luis communities left them with fresh perspectives, a deep respect for local leadership, and a strong desire to revisit these communities!
Added to cart!
Applications for Catalyze Class 6 are now open! If you’re ready to make a difference or grow your impact, start your leadership journey with Catalyze.