The research is clear that women in leadership are critical for a healthy community.  Yet women burn out and leave both formal and informal leadership roles too frequently. This is especially true for women who identify as Black, Indigenous and People of Color.  Rooted Philanthropic spent several months listening to East Side women leaders, which resulted in the development of a 1-year initiative for 16 women.

We have contracted with Courageous Change Collective to lead and facilitate this year long initiative.

All women leaders over the age of 18 whose leadership impacts the East Side of St. Paul, either because you live or work (or both!) on the East Side, are invited to apply. We welcome all women and non-binary people who identify with womanhood to participate. BIPOC leaders are encouraged to apply. Our team will work to ensure that the cohort is a racially diverse and intergenerational group of women. 

We encourage folks to apply who have leadership experience, whether formal or informal. You don’t need to have an official title to be a leader. As women, we often see a need in our community and step in to meet those needs. Consider applying if you are someone who is: 

  • Working to strengthen your neighborhood or the East Side community 
  • Bringing people together to take action in the East Side community 
  • Playing a leadership role in your organization on the East Side 

Cohort Activities 

The East Side Saint Paul Women Leaders Initiative cohort is designed in response to the voices of women leaders on the East Side of Saint Paul. These women were hungry for a space that would offer wellness activities, networking opportunities and leadership skill-building. Participants in the cohort will have an opportunity to help shape the cohort experience and content. Cohort activities take place over a 12-month period and will include: 

  • Launch Gathering will kick-off our cohort journey and gather participant feedback about program design.
  • Monthly Cohort Gatherings focused on relationship building and peer learning  – 2 hours in length.
  • Mid-year Weekend Retreat – provides an opportunity to get away, relax, connect with the other women, and explore timely topics.
  • Financial Resources to support each cohort participant’s personal leadership development – $3,000 per participant

There is no cost to join, only a commitment to participate in all cohort activities, along with an open mind and heart.

If you are a woman leading on the East Side of Saint Paul who is seeking connection and community with other women leaders – please consider applying! Our next cohort will open in late 2025 for the 2026 calendar year.

If you have questions, please contact [email protected] or Patrick Troska at [email protected].