The National Leaders of Color Fellowship program (LoCF) is a transformative leadership development experience curated by Creative West in order to establish multicultural leadership in the creative and cultural sector. By partnering with the other United States Regional Arts Organizations (USRAOs) the program has expanded nationwide and its mission has become a national endeavor.
During this no-cost eight-month fellowship, selected fellows receive access to specialists in the field, strategic learning objectives determined to deepen thought on anti-racist and culturally-oriented leadership practices, and national-level network and cohort building. Upon completion of this program, participants are granted alumni status and have opportunities to collaborate with the USRAO in their region as advisors, funding panelists, and/or other professional capacities.
The fellowship is online and typically takes place from the late fall through early summer of the subsequent year. Approximately 10 hours of work should be budgeted outside of the program dates listed below. As such, fellows are encouraged to receive pay from their employers for hours spent engaging in this fellowship opportunity. The USRAOs are available to provide a letter of support as a resource by request.
The six participating USRAOs do not compensate Fellows for their participation. If Fellows require a letter of support to encourage external support for their participation, the USRAO in their region is prepared to provide a letter if requested.
Who is eligible to apply?
- Candidates will meet the following criteria:
- Self-identify as Black, Indigenous and/or a person of color;
- Self-identify as an early or mid-career leader in the field of arts and culture;
- Is an arts administrator or a significantly arts-interested member such as a volunteer or a public official;
- Current resident of the United States, including U.S. Jurisdictions (American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands); and
- Have not participated in or have participated in limited amounts of high-quality professional leadership development opportunities.
In addition to meeting the criteria above, LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, people with disabilities, low-income and individuals residing in rural, remote or frontier areas are highly encouraged to apply.
Can I apply if I’m moving to one of the eligible states or jurisdictions?
- If this is the case, please contact Creative West Grants Management to discuss your situation; grants@wearecreativewest.org.
DEADLINE: Sunday, October 13
