Rooted in Voice, Growing in Leadership: Inside CELI’s Spring 2026 Cohort
There is something powerful about being in a space where learning feels connected to real life. A space where questions are welcomed, experiences are honored, and growth happens in community.
That is what has been unfolding within FIERCE Advocates’ Spring 2026 Community Educational Leadership Institute, known as CELI.
Over the past few weeks, participants have come together to explore how systems work, how decisions are made, and how community members can play an active role in shaping both. Along the way, something deeper has been building. Confidence. Curiosity. A stronger sense of voice.
Understanding Where Decisions Happen
The cohort began on March 28 with a focus on boards and commissions. These are spaces where policies are discussed, shaped, and implemented, yet many community members are not always aware of how accessible they can be.
For some participants, this was their first time engaging with these concepts. That initial exposure quickly opened the door to exploration.
“I learned about several committees/commissions and boards that I had not previously been aware of.” – Sheenna
Participants began identifying boards connected to their interests and communities, while also thinking through how they might engage more directly.
“Boards and commissions are new to me. Since our last meeting, I have been researching boards and commissions that interest me… I’m realizing it would be beneficial to attend a meeting to better understand what happens there.” – Annabel
The session also offered practical guidance that extended beyond governance spaces and into everyday interactions.
“Don’t confront nor respond out of your emotions. Instead, write it down and go over it before speaking it out. This was pertinent advice for life’s challenges with people in general.” – Ms. Valerie
From the very beginning, participants were not only learning about systems. They were already thinking about how to move within them.
Exploring Power and Influence
On April 4, the cohort shifted into a conversation about power. Participants explored how power shows up internally and externally, and how both forms shape the way we engage with the world around us.
“I learned inside power has to do with internal influences and power and outside power would be members of the community or the public.” – Ashley
This reflection created space for participants to think more intentionally about their own role in advocacy and leadership.
“I feel inspired to challenge the mental health system.” – Alejandra
“After every session, I feel more confident in my ability to support and fight for the rights of families.” – Angeles
As the sessions continue, that sense of confidence is growing in a steady and meaningful way. Participants are building knowledge while also strengthening their ability to act on it.
“For parents to know there are people out there that do care and are working on ways to help them get the support that they do need and want.” – Okeena
Strengthening Skills for Advocacy
The 3rd session introduced participants to budgets and policy development. Together, the group explored how public funds are allocated and how community members can advocate for transparency and accountability.
These conversations begin to answer an important question: where do resources go, and how can communities influence those decisions?
In the upcoming session on April 25, participants will build on that foundation by learning about policy creation, the Brown Act, and strategies for engaging both inside and outside of formal systems. These tools support a deeper understanding of how to participate in decision making spaces with clarity and intention.
Finding Your Voice in Public Spaces
As the cohort moves into May, the focus will turn toward civic engagement and public speaking. Participants will practice strategies for public comment and explore how to share their perspectives in ways that are clear, grounded, and impactful.
The final session will bring everyone together for a World Café style graduation experience. This space will center reflection, shared learning, and commitments to continued engagement in their communities.
What This Moment Represents
CELI creates space for community members to step into leadership in ways that feel both supported and actionable.
Participants are asking deeper questions, engaging new spaces, and building connections with one another. They are exploring how their lived experiences connect to larger systems, and how those experiences can inform meaningful change.
There is a growing awareness that leadership can take many forms. It can look like attending a meeting for the first time. Asking a question that shifts a conversation. Advocating for a resource that better serves families. Supporting others in navigating systems that once felt out of reach.
Within this cohort, those moments are already taking shape.
And as the sessions continue, so does the impact.
