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.
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.
Explore Class 4 embarked on a transformative three-day journey through the Navajo Nation, learning from Indigenous leaders driving cultural preservation, economic sovereignty, and environmental justice. From off-grid education at the STAR School to groundbreaking initiatives like Light Up Navajo, the experience highlighted the power of leadership rooted in tradition, resilience, and innovation.
This was the first Explore cohort to visit the Gila River Indian Community. The day offered a powerful experience of cultural learning, environmental innovation, and deep connection. From the Solar Over Canal project to the Huhugam Heritage Center, each moment highlighted leadership rooted in tradition, resilience, and stewardship.
Explore Class 4 spent the day in Downtown Mesa learning how local leaders are honoring the city’s history while building a more inclusive, creative, and equitable future. From community-led development to arts-driven revitalization, each stop showcased the power of place-based leadership and innovation.
The first Explore program day is always a joyful and fun experience, bringing together the cohort for the first time, learning about Arizona’s history and water, and engaging in some nontraditional team-building experiences while learning more details about what to expect throughout the program. Read more about Class 4.
12 Arizonans have been selected to be part of the fourth class who will travel over 1,850 miles together including to one new community. OneAZ Credit Union has also awarded a three-year grant to support the Explore program. Read more about the exciting updates for Explore Class 4.
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.
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