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Insider’s Guide to the Leadership Development Institute (LDI)
By: Cara Tucker
The Leadership Development Institute (LDI) is a workshop series that educates, inspires and connects interested parties internal and external to the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) through the study of seven core leadership values: 1. Do what’s right 2. Lead courageously 3. Inspire people 4. Develop people 5. Deliver today 6. Build for tomorrow 7. Passion to succeed
When is it held and how long is the program?
The LDI program is eight (8) months long and meets monthly from October to May.
What are some highlights of what LDI participants did this year?
• Guest Speakers: Meet and interact with external executive leaders within the community. • Leadership Book: Read and participate in an engaging discussion of the material. • Community Service Projects: Participate in at least two events that directly impact the local community and provide the ability to fellowship with other participants and members. • Developmental Growth Opportunities: Participants may communicate authentically and transparently during the program as they share real-life situations and experiences in a safe/secure space.
How can those interested apply to participate?
The LDI 2022-2023 application will open from August 15, 2022 to September 15, 2022. JLC Provisionals, Transfers, Active and Sustainer members interested in applying should keep a lookout for announcements via The Happenings, the JLC’s website and social media accounts. When the application period opens, the application will be available to JLC members and non-members at https://www.jlcharlotte. org/leadership-development-institute/.
How can I participate in LDI next year?
• Committee members request/apply for a placement with the LDI program. • Program participants apply via the application process available later this year.
How many members make up the LDI committee and what are their responsibilities?
The LDI committee comprises eight to twelve Active members. The committee’s purpose is to share responsibilities in developing the program and engage with LDI participants and speakers. During the duration of the program, committee members build their leadership, communication and project management skills.
Questions for Committee Chair Hloye Cyprian and Committee Vice-Chair Tessa Shahid:
Why are you serving on LDI?
Hloye: I decided to be intentional about pouring into others, outside of the workplace, to unearth hidden talents and skills. I am passionate about developing others in the workplace and saw LDI as an opportunity to serve in a different capacity. Tessa: I wanted to hone my confidence in leadership and presentation while providing support to other women.
What is your favorite memory of LDI?
Hloye: My favorite memory has many faces. It is whenever I see that a committee member or program participant has walked in their purpose, even if for a moment. I have watched several women in this program build up their confidence and reach new heights. There is something special about seeing the expression on someone’s face when they have achieved and accomplished something they previously shied away from or thought was unobtainable. Tessa: Six months into our 2021-2022 program, my favorite memory was our winter project. Connecting with members during the pandemic presented challenges for us. This project allowed us to come together in the ways we felt comfortable to support another organization and individuals in need.
Tessa Shahid Hloye Cyprian
What makes a leader?
Hloye: A leader is selfless, humble and resilient. They possess an empathetic and nurturing quality that allows them to influence, inspire and motivate others to strive for more.
Tessa: A great leader has integrity and humility and nurtures others.
Who do you look to as a leader?
Hloye: I admire any woman who has the strength, courage and determination to work hard, go after what she wants in life, and create a path when it appears that the road ends. Oprah, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Coco Chanel, Michelle Obama and Shonda Rhimes to name a few.
Tessa: Robbie, DeAlva, Jania and Natalie, to name a few. These individuals are corporate leaders, non-profit executives and business owners that have made an impact on me and others.
