Having participated in Emerging Leaders initiatives in the past I'm thrilled to learn of the decision to form a more permanent entity. When ResIM was first ramping up in 2006 it was Emerging Leaders that introduced me to the importance of building a strong community and engaging young citizens -- I felt, and still feel, that we can make a huge difference in this city.
The grassroots volunteer-driven initiative began in 2006 with support from TechAlliance, Fanshawe College and the City of London, and a goal to foster involvement, investment and voice for 25-44 year olds, a demographic key to London’s future job market, assessment base and philanthropic sector.
In the past three years, EL has hosted four “think tanks” (attended by several hundred young leaders), to collect new ideas to help improve London for the future; connected EL volunteers to positions on dozens of local nonprofit boards and special committees; paired talented ELs with business and community mentors; hosted a number of professional development seminars and educational opportunities (including an event with author and philanthropist Seymour Schulich); and provided ongoing opportunities to socialize, network and build-relationships.
Today, EL counts approximately 800 individuals as members and nearly 100 local organizations as partners.
For more on this exciting news please see the official notice on the emerging leaders web site.