The State of Black Arizona (SBAZ) invites Black leaders in the Phoenix area to apply for the 2025 African American Leadership Institute (AALI). Now in its ninth Phoenix cohort, AALI delivers a transformative three‑month experience (October–December 2025) combining masterclasses, retreats, and field experiences that will focus on Rest, Re‑membering, and Resistance.

This year’s theme is Beyond the Zero-Sum – Advancing Black Leadership Through Collective Power. Inspired by Heather McGhee’s The Sum of Us, AALI’s 2025 theme challenges scarcity narratives and highlights how collective liberation benefits everyone. Through sessions grounded in equity-centered leadership, coalition-building, and emotional intelligence, participants will learn how to reshape systems and forge pathways for shared progress.

“The State of Black Arizona created AALI as a sanctuary where Black leaders heal and strategize,” said Teniqua Broughton, CEO of SBAZ. “This year’s focus on the three R’s – Rest, Re‑membering, and Resistance – will serve as the pillars that nourish, reunite, and embolden Black leaders to envision and enact systemic change.”

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Program highlights include:

  • Eight masterclasses with leading Black experts on Arizona’s Black history, economy, natural resources and energy, public safety, education, and healthcare
  • One full-day leadership retreat on October 4 including networking opportunities with influential Black leaders
  • Hybrid sessions both in-person and virtual
  • Graduation ceremony on December 12

The deadline to apply is August 31, 2025. Tuition is $1,500. Limited scholarships are available. To apply and learn more, visit www.stateofblackarizona.org/aali.

Since its inception in 2017, AALI has cultivated an intergenerational network of civic, corporate, nonprofit, and community leaders, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and mentorship needed to shape policy and culture, accelerate professional growth, and co-create innovative, community‑driven solutions.

The State of Black Arizona is grateful to this year’s sponsors including:

  • Presenting: Arizona Public Service & African American Legacy Fund
  • Gold: Salt River Project
  • Silver: Fry’s Foods
  • Bronze: Arizona State University
  • Supporting: Community Foundation for Southern Arizona

“We are honored to champion the next generation of Black leadership by investing in their vision, vitality, and resilience powers,” said Stacy Derstine, Vice President of ExternalAffairs, Arizona Public Service. “Nurturing the amazing talent in our state sparks innovation and strengthens Arizona communities for long-term shared prosperity.”

About The State of Black Arizona

The State of Black Arizona (SBAZ) is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing equity, opportunity and representation for Black Arizonans through data-driven research, policy advocacy, and community engagement. Since its founding, SBAZ has served as a vital resource for policymakers, business leaders, educators and community stakeholders by providing insightful publications, strategic initiatives and collaborative programs addressing systemic disparities.

Through partnerships with public and private sector leaders, SBAZ works to drive meaningful investments in areas such as education, economic development, healthcare, civic participation, and infrastructure. By equipping communities with actionable data and fostering dialogue, SBAZ serves as a pillar for progress, ensuring Black Arizonans have the resources and opportunities needed to thrive.

To learn more, visit stateofblackarizona.org.