Zines, Stories & Purpose: Explore Class 4’s Final Reflection
Explore Class 4 wrapped up their journey with a powerful final reflection day that invited deep introspection and creative expression. Charissa Lucille from Wasted Ink Zine Distro led a hands-on zine-making workshop that encouraged each of the 11 participants to document their leadership journey through the lens of three core themes: Equity, Interconnectedness, and Adaptability. Using folded pages, drawings, and personal narratives, the cohort captured how these values revealed themselves throughout their statewide visits—from tribal lands to urban neighborhoods—marking a meaningful pause to absorb the growth that occurred along the way.
The group then gathered around a large visual timeline, revisiting each place they’d explored, sharing stories of impact, and spotlighting the moments that changed them. These personal reflections brought new life to each site visit and deepened the collective understanding of what it means to lead with purpose in Arizona. Dave Brown, VL’s CEO, also joined the group to share insights into the Impact Maker model and how graduates can remain active changemakers in addressing Arizona’s most pressing challenges. The day concluded with a full-circle moment: each participant spoke about how they’ve changed since day one and named what actions they’ll carry forward into their lives and leadership.
The celebration continued into the evening with a joyful graduation gathering at The Yard in Phoenix. With heartfelt remarks from OneAZ Community Foundation sponsor Robert Raygoza, incoming board chair Greg Lim, and Dave Brown, the graduates were honored for their commitment and openness. Jen Gastelum and Natalka Zeleny, VL’s Explore program managers, shared remarks centered around their appreciation for the group’s authenticity and the opportunity to lead this meaningful work. Each member of the cohort spoke briefly about the theme of “connection,” underscoring the strength of their bond as a group and the broader web of leaders working together across the state. It was a fitting close to a transformative experience—one built on trust, shared learning, and the belief that leadership can, and must, serve the common good.
