Dive Deeper and Lead Stronger with Leadership SWFL
Dive deeper and lead stronger with Leadership SWFL
By: Tiffany Esposito, MBA, CCE, IOM, APR, President & CEO, SWFL Inc.
In our everchanging world, leaders in Southwest Florida need a strong area network and a deep understanding of how the region operates to succeed. If you or a professional you know is looking to deepen their understanding of the components that make up this region and emerge a stronger leader, consider applying to be a part of our next class of Leadership SWFL!
Leadership SWFL is the region’s premier community immersion program dedicated to providing business professionals with a deeper understanding of the community and creating a cohort of individuals ready to serve as effective leaders in the region. Not only does the program connect area leaders and provide them with a better understand of how the region works, but how they can get more engaged and make a bigger difference in the area.
Founded in 1999, this program includes nine day-long sessions and an overnight retreat between May and December. Each session provides attendees with an in-depth look at a different aspect of Southwest Florida, from infrastructure to tourism, to the environment and more. Graduates will build those essential relationships and foster a better understand the innerworkings of Lee, Collier and Charlotte Counties.
One of my favorite parts of this program is how quickly it brings the class of participants together. On the first day of the retreat, everyone walks in looking a little nervous and maybe even skeptical about what they’ll gain from it. By dinner that night, these groups are the best of friends, laughing, swapping contact information and excited for the rest of the program.
We’re constantly expanding the reach of our trips and tours, but some of the most beloved tours the class takes include a back-of-the-house tour of the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa, a tour of Babcock Ranch (America’s first solar-powered town), a wading exploration of Estero Bay, and a behind-the-scenes look at the Bonita Springs Fire Control & Rescue District where participants try on gear, put out a controlled burn and even use the jaws of life.
If you would enjoy these exclusive experiences, are looking to grow your network, and are looking for a big-picture view of our region, I hope you’ll apply for the 2022 Class of Leadership SWFL. Applications to be considered for early acceptance are due December 20, 2021 and are available online at SWFLinc.com/Leadership-SWFL. Tuition for the program is $2,100. Contact Hannah Phillips at Hannah@SWFLInc.com or 239-992-2943 with questions.
P.S. Looking to meet area professionals? Check out one of our upcoming events! You don’t need to be a member to participate, just RSVP at SWFLinc.com/events.