Women Rise Collective is a program designed for seasoned women Executive Directors with a minimum of five years of experience in leadership roles within nonprofit organizations.

This program takes an introspective approach to nonprofit leadership development. Through four months of facilitated learning sessions, participants are guided to examine their lived experiences, deepen self-awareness, and apply key insights directly to real-world leadership challenges. This approach bridges personal growth with practical application, empowering women to lead with intention, confidence, and authenticity.

organization + participant Benefits

• Empower women executive directors to lead with confidence and efficacy.

• Strengthen your professional brand to ensure sustainable organizational growth.

• Foster a robust network of peers and mentors for long-term support and collaboration.

• Custom sessions led by industry leaders

• Cultivate innovative leadership approaches to address complex nonprofit challenges.

women rise collective cohort 2

KEY DATES

• January 5, 2026 - Application opens*

• February 20, 2026 - Application closes

• March 6, 2026 - Applicant notifications

• April 29, 2026 - Opening Session

*Upon receipt of application, applicants will be contacted to schedule an interview.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Program Qualifications

• Woman executive with 5+ years of nonprofit leadership experience

• Currently leading a nonprofit with 2025 annual revenue between $1 million and $20 million

• At least 10 employees on staff

• Two neighbor island participants will be provided with airfare to cover all in-person sessions

Expectations

By joining this cohort, you are not only investing in your professional development but also in the collective advancement of the nonprofit sector. Your dedicated participation contributes to a community of leaders who are committed to driving meaningful change and fostering a culture of excellence within their organizations.

Time Commitment

This is a 4-month, 44-hour program that meets every other week and culminates with a graduation and certificate of completion. Over the four months, a commitment to attend 9 of 10 sessions is required, with mandatory attendance to the graduation ceremony.

Program Cost

Thanks to our generous sponsors, this program is free of charge.

PROGRAM CURRICULUMN

• Wednesday, 4/29/26 | Opening Session

• Wednesday, 5/13/26 | Strategic Leadership - Part 1

• Wednesday, 5/27/26 | Strategic Leadership - Part 2

• Wednesday, 6/10/26 | Financial Management

• Wednesday, 6/24/26 | Professional Brand: Identity, Authenticity, Voice - Part 1

• Wednesday, 7/8/26 | Professional Brand: Identity, Authenticity, Voice - Part 2

• Wednesday, 7/22/26 | Board Governance & Management - Part 1*

• Thursday, 7/23/26 | Board Governance & Management - Part 2

• Wednesday, 8/5/26 | Nonprofit Law

• Wednesday, 8/19/26 | Women Rise Collective Cohort 2 Graduation**

All sessions are held in-person at either YWCA Oahu or Central Pacific Plaza 20th Floor Waimea Room every other Wednesday, between 9:00am - 1:00pm, including lunch.

*This session will include an overnight stay on Oahu for neighbor island attendees.

**Graduation is mandatory and will be held from 11:00am-1:00pm.

Disclaimer: The scheduled dates and times may be subject to change without prior notice.

Meet Cohort 1 (2025)

• Jennine Sullivan | The Pantry by Feeding Hawaii Together

• Sheryl Matsuoka | Hawaii Restaurant Association

• Dr. Lisa Labrecque

• Marisa Castuera Hayase - Vice President, Programs | The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation

Women Rise Collective Cohort 1