Today, I find myself reflecting deeply on the profound honor and responsibility that comes with my role as the Forward Promise Director of Leadership. It’s with a heart full of gratitude and passion that I guide our incredible team in crafting programming designed to nurture and promote holistic wellness in the lives of community leaders who are deeply deserving of time away to rest. In a world so full of need, who supports the caretakers of our communities? What resources are available to refuel those who burn the midnight oil to address dehumanization? This work is not just a job — it’s a calling to create spaces where leaders can find balance and rejuvenation amidst their relentless pursuit of justice.
Throughout my journey, I’ve observed many leaders, driven by a powerful sense of purpose, often neglect the vital practice of self-care. I must also admit that there is a fair share of invisible labor within any leadership role. There are periods of time when fatigue itself becomes a badge of honor and an unnecessary testament to grind culture. Then I remember no one can pour from an empty cup. We must all find solace in replenishing our own energy reserves. The tireless efforts of our fellows to confront systemic oppression and drive change, while undeniably noble, can sometimes lead to burnout and stress. The emotional and physical demands of this work can be overwhelming, and it’s easy for leaders to see self-care as a luxury they can’t afford.
Yet, taking time for oneself is not an indulgence but a necessity. Without it, leaders risk depleting their own energy and compromising their effectiveness. Leaders of color, in particular, carry the heavy weight of systemic change on their shoulders, making it crucial for them to prioritize their own well-being to sustain their powerful advocacy for marginalized communities.
As we prepared for our opening retreat, I was excited about the thoughtfully designed workshops, wellness activities, and sacred circle of our fellows. This retreat is not just about providing rest and relaxation, it’s about acknowledging that self-care is unique to each individual — culturally, spiritually, and personally. It’s also about creating a space where fellows can learn to integrate wellness into their lives in a way that supports their mental, emotional, intellectual, and physical health.
Set against the tranquil backdrop of Cloudland at McLemore Resort, this retreat offered an opportunity for our fellows to connect deeply with one another and with nature. The serene environment fostered authentic connections and built a strong sense of synergy. I’m dedicated to the overarching objective of “Healing the Healers.” By supporting collaborative change through a rich blend of interdisciplinary and intergenerational learning, community leaders are free to embrace the freedom of claiming a moment all their own. Engaging in meaningful dialogue is how we heal and continue to evolve as practitioners of social justice.
As our fellows navigate their complex roles, their commitment to self-care is a testament to the values they champion — compassion, resilience, and respect for themselves and others. The Forward Promise Fellowship for Leaders is more than an opportunity, it’s a journey toward embracing wellness as an integral part of effective leadership and sustainable community uplift.
In this moment of reflection, I’m reminded of the beauty in our collective effort to balance advocacy with self-care, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this meaningful work.
