Aspiring leaders gain a behind-the-scenes look at Redlands

REDLANDS, Calif. – A unique and transformative program aimed at shaping the next generation of community leaders is back for another year. Leadership Redlands, organized by the Redlands Chamber of Commerce, seeks applicants for the 2024 leadership class.

What is Leadership Redlands: The community leadership program began in 1987 and has supported various individuals, including former mayors, historians, public officials, and business leaders in Redlands.

The year-long program works to inform and empower decision-makers from all parts of the city to improve their leadership skills through hands-on experiences and make a lasting impact on the community through service.

Tansu Philip, a writer, actor, and local entrepreneur, participated in the Leadership Redlands class of 2023. "This program allowed me to connect with my community in a way I hadn't been able to before, despite living in Redlands for most of my life," said Philip.

"Throughout the program, I gained invaluable insights into the various sectors that collectively make the city of Redlands thrive. This knowledge not only deepened my appreciation for our city but also inspired me to become a more active and engaged citizen," said Philip upon reflecting on her experience.

Philip, co-founder of the local boba shop, Viva La Boba, is currently working on opening a second location on Orange Street in Redlands.

Leadership training: Each month, Leadership Redlands participants focus on a different facet or issue facing the community and gain a better understanding of how the city works, from education to local government.

Evan Sanford, the executive director of the Chamber of Commerce overseeing the program, calls it an eye-opening experience. "Participants get a behind-the-scenes look at how things really work, the problems that are facing this community, and most importantly, ways to get involved and make a difference," says Sanford. "No one else gets this kind of access."

The program provides special access to locations around the city, including the new city hall, the Museum of Redlands, ESRI, Redlands Community Hospital, Redlands Unified School District, Burrage Mansion, and Family Services Association.

Community Service: Graduates of Leadership Redlands are equipped to become ambassadors for positive change, explains Sanford.

To nurture the spirit of servant leadership, Leadership Redlands participants are encouraged to take part in about 20 hours of community service time during the year. Additionally, the class participates in a year-end community service project.

The class of 2023 brought back Movies in the Park at Community Park to raise money for beautification efforts in North Redlands.

"One of the most exciting aspects of the program was the opportunity to plan and execute two remarkable community events," said Philip. "These experiences not only honed my leadership and teamwork skills but also gave me a sense of fulfillment that comes from contributing to the betterment of our community."

Who should apply: The ideal candidates are local business owners, public servants, non-profit leaders, adult students, community residents in various leadership roles, or anyone looking to become a community advocate. Most importantly, applicants should share a deep desire to enhance their leadership skills and be willing to dedicate their talents to the betterment of Redlands.

The application process includes a resume and a personal statement about one's leadership experience and motivation to join the program.

The program also requires a one-time tuition fee of $1,000, which includes nine months of programming and meals during each session. Limited scholarships based on need and merit are available for those who need financial support.

"I wholeheartedly encourage anyone who is passionate about being an active and involved member of the Redlands community to apply for the Leadership Redlands program. It's not just a leadership course; it's a journey of discovery, connection, and empowerment," said Philip.

Applications are accepted until Oct. 31, and the program starts in January 2024. For more information and to apply, click on the link below.

Leadership Redlands - Redlands Chamber of Commerce

Redlands Chamber of Commerce