By BTL Staff
DETROIT – Director of Programs at Affirmations, Johnny Jenkins has been selected to participate in the Detroit Regional Chamber's Leadership Detroit program.
The program is a 10-month transformational leadership program designed to challenge emerging and existing community members from Southeast Michigan to bring about positive change.
"I'm inspired by the passion and commitment all the participants have towards Detroit and Southeast Michigan, and I'm looking forward to working with this talented class of individuals to increase awareness of resources related to sexual orientation and gender identity at Affirmations," said Jenkins.
Along with the work he does for Affirmations, Jenkins is a social justice activist, organizer, slam poet, founder of the Black Pride Society and former director of the Foundation's Michigan Racial & Economic Justice Initiative. He holds a B.A. in Business Administration and has served as the creative director and principal of NoirAmerica, a graphic design and communications firm he founded. Jenkins currently serves as the resident host/co-producer of the EchoVerse Poetry & Slam Series, home of the 2007-08 Detroit Slam Teams.
As part of the Leadership Class XXXVI, Jenkins joins 70 executives from across the region, representing a cross-section of the community including business, organized labor, government, education, media, civic groups, health services and community organizations.
"We have a rich tradition as 'makers' in this region that sets us apart. Southeast Michigan sets the standard of what is possible when creativity, ingenuity and hard work come together," said Dan Piepszowski, senior director of community leadership development at the Detroit Regional Chamber. "Our region's future success relies on these same ingredients shaped in new ways by leaders like these who are making a commitment to challenge long-held assumptions, embrace multiple perspectives and connect with their passion."
Leadership Detroit provides opportunities for participants to foster problem solving, while providing new views on key issues to lead the region to success. As it has since 1979, Leadership Detroit will continue its role in addressing, discussing and leading conversations important to the Detroit region.
Click here for the complete Leadership Detroit Class XXXVI roster.
