Mentorship for Emerging Leaders

An Intergenerational Leadership Development Program

The DESIRE+ Collective’s 6-month mentorship initiative connects emerging leaders with seasoned professionals and community leaders to foster confidence, strategic skill-building, and sustainable leadership readiness.

By 2027, we are building a network of 60 mentors and mentees engaged in ongoing leadership development.

Mentee Application
Mentor Application
Sponsor a Scholarship

Who This Program Is For

For Emerging Leaders

You may be a strong fit if you are:

  • Stepping into leadership in your career, advocacy, creative work, or community

  • Seeking clarity, accountability, and structured growth

  • Ready to strengthen confidence, visibility, and boundaries

  • Committed to a 6-month developmental experience

We center Black women, especially plus-size Black women, while welcoming aligned participants committed to dignity-centered leadership and equity.

For Mentors

Mentors are:

  • Professionals, entrepreneurs, educators, healers, organizers, and executives

  • Individuals with 5+ years of leadership experience

  • Committed to ethical mentorship and intergenerational growth

  • Willing to invest 4–6 hours per month

Mentorship is guidance, not therapy, management, or advising.

What You’ll Gain

  • Confidence & Visibility

    Strengthen your leadership voice and presence in professional spaces.

  • Strategy & Skill Development

    Build practical tools for advocacy, decision-making, and growth.

  • Sustainable Leadership

    Learn embodied practices that reduce burnout and increase clarity.

Program Snapshot

Length: 6 Months

Format: Virtual (with optional in-person opportunities)

Cohort Size: 10–15 mentor/mentee pairs

Time Commitment: 4–6 hours per month

Includes:

  • Leadership Foundations Intensive

  • Monthly mentor meetings

  • Quarterly collective gatherings

  • Capstone leadership project

  • Pre/Post growth evaluation

Check out our scrollable and downloadable program booklet to the for more information!

Program Investment

  • Community Rate — $150

    Choose this if paying more would create financial stress at this time.

    Apply Now

  • Standard Rate — $300

    Choose this if you have stable income and are investing in your leadership development.

    Apply Now

  • Sustainer Rate — $600

    Choose this if you can invest at a higher level and help expand access for others.

    Apply Now

Payment plans are available. Scholarships are limited and supported through sponsorship.

Mentors participate as volunteers.

Sponsor a Scholarship!

Invest in the Next Generation of Leaders

Your sponsorship helps provide access, materials, and operational support for this program.

Your sponsorship directly removes financial barriers and funds a participant’s access to:

  • Monthly structured mentorship

  • Leadership curriculum and resources

  • Collective workshops

  • Capstone development support

  • Leadership Showcase participation

  • Program evaluation and impact tracking