Leaders of the Free World is about psychological emancipation.
We define the "Free World" as a place that is beyond fears and mental barriers. It's the place where you redefine your existence, affirm your purpose, and discover your own personal power and leadership potential.
Test your limits. Step outside of your comfort zone. The world awaits.
We define the "Free World" as a place that is beyond fears and mental barriers. It's the place where you redefine your existence, affirm your purpose, and discover your own personal power and leadership potential.
Test your limits. Step outside of your comfort zone. The world awaits.
Why Leaders Of The Free World?
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Every year, a large proportion of Black men enrolled in college leave without achieving their intended degree. Research shows that African-American students who study abroad have up to a 31% higher graduation rate than those who do not. Study abroad and international experiences serve as catalysts for academic achievement, motivation, and positive career outcomes, yet Black men make up roughly 2% of students who study abroad or participate in international experiences.
Leaders of the Free World is focused on the personal and professional development of young Black men. Participants gain a broader view of the world and themselves, while receiving encouragement and guidance from their mentors and support and community from their cohort. The LFW program includes soft skills-building, leadership activities & seminars, trip preparation, community service, and cultural education and immersion, with a focus on goal-setting and accountability. The model is designed to cultivate a sense of self-mastery, personal growth, and self efficacy.
Every year, a large proportion of Black men enrolled in college leave without achieving their intended degree. Research shows that African-American students who study abroad have up to a 31% higher graduation rate than those who do not. Study abroad and international experiences serve as catalysts for academic achievement, motivation, and positive career outcomes, yet Black men make up roughly 2% of students who study abroad or participate in international experiences.
Leaders of the Free World is focused on the personal and professional development of young Black men. Participants gain a broader view of the world and themselves, while receiving encouragement and guidance from their mentors and support and community from their cohort. The LFW program includes soft skills-building, leadership activities & seminars, trip preparation, community service, and cultural education and immersion, with a focus on goal-setting and accountability. The model is designed to cultivate a sense of self-mastery, personal growth, and self efficacy.
Why Focus on Young Black Men?
Through initiatives like the White House’s My Brother’s Keeper and the Campaign for Black Male Achievement, the United States has come to understand the degree to which African-American men and boys still experience disparities in education, economic mobility, and social and physical well-being. Post-recession Black male unemployment is still high; more than double the white unemployment rate in January 2013 (U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics). Moreover, “Black males between 25 and 39 years old, arguably in the prime of life, are the most likely to be incarcerated” (BMAfunders – U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Statistics).
Why International Experiential Learning?
International experience offers a new frame of reference. Structured international learning can allow a deeper level of engagement and cross-cultural dialogue. International experience also provides students with opportunities for intentional self-reflection and deepening their understanding of global and cultural issues, as well as cultivating a sense of responsibility as local and global citizens (Bringle and Hatcher, 2011).
For young African-American men, international experience also offers a reprieve from the U.S. historical context of Black racial identity. Moreover, “diasporic travel” has been found to serve as a catalyst for academic achievement, motivation, and positive career outcomes (Kronholz & Osborn, 2016).
For young African-American men, international experience also offers a reprieve from the U.S. historical context of Black racial identity. Moreover, “diasporic travel” has been found to serve as a catalyst for academic achievement, motivation, and positive career outcomes (Kronholz & Osborn, 2016).
The Importance of Self-Efficacy
Self-efficacy is the belief in one’s capability to successfully achieve set goals (Bandura, 1993). People who strongly believe in their ability to accomplish targets are better able to deal with any associated challenges along the way. Self-efficacy is positively influenced when individuals master new challenges or view others like themselves (role models) mastering similar challenges. Self-efficacy can also be influenced by the people around an individual when they believe in them and encouraging their success. The LFW program is designed to bolster self-efficacy and related areas of leadership development, creating more confident and successful leaders of tomorrow.