Miami Fellows Class XII Grant

The Miami Fellows Class XII is a transformative 15-month leadership program designed for individuals under 45 who are committed to enhancing Greater Miami. This initiative empowers emerging leaders through immersive experiences, networking opportunities, and community engagement, fostering a new generation of civic leaders. Participants will engage in multiple labs focusing on critical issues, gain leadership skills from experts, and develop a strong civic network, ultimately aiming to drive positive change in their communities.

The Miami Fellows 15-month leadership program experience uses our community as a learning laboratory, inspiring Fellows to engage and give back. Fellows develop a deeper understanding of effective leadership while learning about civic issues and ways to solve them in Greater Miami.
Empowering Emerging Leaders
Since 1999, the Miami Fellows program has fostered a new generation of leaders. The program focuses on building Fellows’ knowledge, networks and abilities, and increasing their community engagement and impact. That could mean Fellows pursue civic, public service or elected positions; work for better policies or practices to solve community problems; or champion issues and mobilize others. Whatever path they choose, our goal is for Fellows to lead toward a greater Miami.Along the way, they connect with the men and women heading our most influential organizations and create lasting relationships. Hear from Ruth Shack, Foundation president emeritus, on why we founded the Fellows program. Listen in as Fellows alums share how the Fellows experience prepared them as leaders.
Fellows Will Gain
Advanced leadership development with nationally recognized partnersDirect engagement with the urgent issues and opportunities shaping Greater MiamiA powerful network of civic leaders, alumni, and executive mentorsTime and tools to craft their leadership vision—and a plan to act on it
Miami Fellows Class XII includes:
Seven Community and Leadership Labs, each a two- or three-day immersive experience focused on critical issues including education, resiliency, economic opportunity, and cultural identity, rooted in community and grounded in place.   A Global Learning Experience, a six-day international trip designed to expand civic imagination and draw global insights for local leadership. Leadership Forums, hosted between Labs with local power players such as the Superintendent, university presidents, CEOs, and elected officials. Leadership Skills Development, anchored in real-world application: scenario planning, authenticity, strategic visioning, and personal brand building.Alumni Mentors and Executive Coaches, connecting Fellows with trusted thought partners and community leaders to support their leadership growth.
Selected candidates must be available for all sessions.
Lab 1 | Building a Community of Leaders, Feb 19–20, 2026Lab 2 | Leadership Lab, Apr 15–17, 2026Lab 3 | Education: Gateway to Greater Opportunity, Jun 11–12, 2026Lab 4 | Building Greater Miami’s Resiliency, Aug 20–21, 2026Lab 5 | Global Learning Experience, Oct 10–15, 2026Lab 6 | The Power of Place: Miami’s Cultural Landscape, Dec 10–11, 2026Lab 7 | The Economics of Greater Miami + Closing, Feb 17–19, 2027
Leadership Forums and Skills Labs occur approximately every 2–3 weeks between Labs.

Eligibility

Work/lead in Miami-Dade CountyLive in South FloridaBe under 45 years oldDemonstrate a deep commitment to shaping the future of Greater MiamiHave an outstanding track record of civic and professional leadershipBe positioned to influence community-level changeBe able and committed to fully participate in the 15-month experienceCommit to active alumni engagement beyond the fellowship