RALEIGH — Jennifer Everett of Culture Queens Outdoors recently graduated from the NC Rural Center’s Homegrown Leaders program, a three-day regional leadership and community economic development program that develops and supports highly motivated leaders committed to regional collaboration.
“The Homegrown Leaders training expanded my capacity as a leader and gave me new tools to serve with intention. It’s helped me — and Culture Queens — prepare to build stronger partnerships, amplify our impact, and do even more for the communities we love, starting right here in my hometown Richmond County.” - Jennifer Everett, founder of Culture Queens
The training, held in Albemarle from April 8 to 10, drew existing and emerging leaders from across Central North Carolina.
Graduation certificates were presented to the program's 23 participants upon completion of the training.
"Through Homegrown Leaders, we equip and empower rural leaders to have a greater impact on regional economic development," said Olaunda Green, director of leadership training for the Rural Center. "Their vision, determination, and deep-rooted connection to their communities inspire them to help shape the future of their regions and the next generation of rural leaders."
Class participants included local government and health professionals, government officials, and faith and nonprofit leaders.
“Leadership development is at the core of the Rural Center’s work, and now more than ever it is important that our leaders are equipped with the skills and tools to foster growth and innovation,” said Rural Center President and CEO Patrick Woodie. “We’re excited to see the impact our Homegrown Leaders graduates will have in their communities and regions to create a thriving future for generations of residents.”
For more information about Homegrown Leaders, visit https://www.ncruralcenter.org/homegrown-leaders/.
