NNAAC’s Transformative Leaders Fellowship Program develops crucial leadership skills in select university students and recent graduates across the country through an ongoing partnership with our various member organizations. These aspiring young adults learn more about the issues facing Arab American communities, see how nonprofits are managed, and work toward creating a personal professional growth plan.
Get to know Leen Shumman, one of our 2018-19 fellows, in our interview with her below.
Leen Shumman
Arab-American Family Support Center
Why did you join the Leadership Fellowship?
I joined the Transformative Leaders Fellowship because it's a great way to give back to my community.
What is your favorite quality about your host-site organization?
I love working in a space that feels comfortable. Thankfully, everything has been great. I have been fortunate enough to work in an environment where everyone is kind, and wants to see you succeed.
How does this program fit into your future plans?
In general, my plan is to be a role model to younger Arab-American Women. With this program, I envision myself providing a stepping-stone for the girls in my community. As cliché as it sounds, I really do think it's important for the girls to know they have opportunities awaiting them.
What is a personal goal that you would like to achieve?
Hopefully, to strengthen my leadership skills.
What is a professional goal that you would like to achieve?
To get to network more often.
Why do you think programs like this are important?
I think programs like these are important to the Arab-American Community because it truly helps everyone. It especially allows the younger generations to feel empowered. Often, first-gen people have a difficult time going somewhere where they feel accepted. With these programs, it shines a light on a community that is often overlooked by society.
Describe yourself in three words.
Responsible, passionate, sincere
The National Network for Arab American Communities (NNAAC) Transformative Leaders Fellowship Program increases the capacity of our member organizations to provide additional support to their communities, while at the same time develops crucial leadership skills in the fellows themselves. The program engages college students and/or recent graduates over a nine-month placement with a NNAAC member organization. Fellows are recruited by NNAAC members locally, and in partnership with universities. Learn more.