Apply for the 2024-2026 Black Women’s Leadership Experience
Black women ages 23-30 may apply for the Black Women’s Leadership Experience, a 2-year residential experience from July 2024 to July 2026 and take place in Washington DC.
The BWLE Residential Program
The Black Women’s Leadership Experience (BWLE) supports young adult Black women in their spiritual and vocational pursuits creating a community of compassion and care that fosters: Self-love, Authenticity, Creativity, and Healing. This 24-month residential leadership development program provides a platform for young adult Black women to discover their own path by supporting their identity formation and leadership development. The program offers full-time paid work in a local service or justice organization, a facilitated program curriculum centered in Womanist studies, wellness support, and mentorship.
Program Components
- Sisterhood Circles to address identity formation and faith exploration.
- Wellness groups to address Black women’s mental health and wellness and learn how to access appropriate resources.
- Community engagement to explore what it means to live a life of service.
- Black women clergy and lay leader mentorship to offer supportive spiritual and vocational exploration.
- A final project to explore a passion project, new idea, and/or develop a talent, skill, or vocational interest that speaks to the core of the participant’s self-identity and vision for the future
Dates and Location
July 2024 – June 2026 in Washington, DC. Learn more about this inaugural experience by reading the FAQ below. Ready to apply? Click the red button below to get started!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many young adults will be admitted into the program?
Five young adult Black women will be admitted into the 2024-2026 program experience.
What is the process for selection?
Applicants must submit a completed application. A selection committee will review all completed applications and determine candidates for an interview. Interviews will be hosted through video conferencing. Final candidates will be notified and will need to confirm their decision by the deadline (ideally within 2 weeks of notification).
How will I financially support myself?
All participants will work in a health and human services organization for approximately 30 hours/week at $15/hour.
What expenses does the program cover?
- Transportation to and from Washington, DC (at the start and conclusion of the program)
- Housing
- Utilities
- All travel related directly to programming
What does the program NOT cover?
- Personal social activities
- Transportation to and from work sites (i.e. public transportation, personal car use and related expenses, rideshare, etc.)
- Personal needs (i.e. cell phone, clothing, hygiene items, food, etc.)
- Personal travel during breaks, holidays, and/or weekends
Will I have a roommate?
In most cases, participants will have a separate bedroom; however, participants may have to share a bathroom with 1-2 other participants.
Do I have to make a full two-year commitment to the program – July 2024 through June 2026?
Yes, barring any unforeseen circumstances, the commitment to the Black Women’s Leadership Experience (BWLE) Residential Program is the full two years. We ask that all potential applicants seriously consider their two-year goals and objectives when considering an application to the program.
Is BWLE the same as XPLOR?
BWLE was born out of a clear need the NBA saw throughout the seven years of hosting the XPLOR Residency Program. Although both programs focus on the vocational and spiritual development of young adults, the BWLE will engage a smaller focused affinity group, Black women, and their particular needs for support and growth. The BWLE residential program is a two-year commitment.
Do I have to be a Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) member to apply?
No, although Disciples may understand and experience the ministry of the NBA uniquely. This program may give preference to Disciples candidates or those affiliated with Disciples institutions. However, the most important requisite is for the young adult to be curious about identity formation as a Black woman and how and where God might be calling—and they are ready to explore that call within a Disciples context.
What if a BWLE participant is still sorting out religion/spirituality?
NBA’s BWLE is intentionally formed to help participants engage in “discernment” -intentionally asking how and where God might be calling someone in their personal, professional, spiritual, and relational life. We don’t assume participants have all the “big questions” figured out. On the contrary, sorting out religion, theology, and spirituality is a life-long quest. The NBA’s BWLE helps participants realize that and equips and affirms them in that journey.
Who would make a good BWLE participant?
BWLE participants are young adults who want to join a community that centers Black women’s experiences with support and resources to help them realize their hopes and dreams for self and community. This program provides a platform to reflect, discern, and discover one’s path to self-actualization (achieving one’s fullest potential).
How much does it cost to be a participant?
This residential program costs a sincere commitment to see where God may be calling, but participants do not pay for their time in NBA’s BWLE. Houses are set up to allow participants to live on a monthly livable wage, with housing and utilities provided by the NBA.
Can I work an extra job or be enrolled in additional college courses during the NBA BWLE residential program?
The BWLE residential program involves a very strong commitment to building relationships and investment in the growth and exploration that happens during the 24 months. Therefore, working an outside job beyond the internship or enrolling in additional college courses is not permissible.
