Introducing a Women in Youth Ministry Cohort

Some of my best learning in leadership has been in a cohort experience. I've had the privilege to be a part of several cohorts over the years with Jr. High Pastors, Fuller Youth Institute, and coaching groups. Many of my deepest transformations and dearest friends have come from these experiences. There's something about a shared learning environment that expedites our growth in personal, highly relational, loving, and aggressive ways. It's because of my past experiences that I'm incredibly excited about launching a cohort for women in youth ministry, launching in January 2014. The Youth Cartel is sponsoring this brave endeavor and are passionate about seeing women flourish in ministry. Already 3 of the 8 women have committed to the cohort. I'm anticipating a full house before Thanksgiving and there's already talk of a second cohort.

Here's a little bit about the big picture of the cohort and logistics included...

DESCRIPTION:

This 10 month whole-life coaching program is all about developing and empowering you as a woman in leadership. Being a woman in youth ministry is different. It demands unique skills and awareness as we approach the challenges and opportunities due to our gender. We will learn across a scope of subjects including theology, practical life realities, leading men, and issues defined by this group. This specialized cohort has 8 women in leadership, and meets twice for 2 days plus 4 times online (2-3 hours each). Each time is very intentional and structured to provide encouragement, challenge, and transformation. This cohort provides customized attention to your specific context and needs as a woman in youth ministry.

DETAILS:

• We journey together for 10-months and the group chooses exact dates based on our schedules.
  • January - face-to-face
  • February - online
  • April - online
  • June - online
  • August - online
  • September - face-to-face
• Two 2-day, face-to-face meetings in Orange County, CA (at Newsong Church)
• Four online meetings of 2-3 hours (via Google Hangout)
• Participants get four 30-minute phone calls with April Diaz
• Access to a private Facebook group for ongoing support, connection, and interaction
• Cost - $1750 (+ participant travel costs)

We'll do a fair amount of reading and cross-disciplinary learning, as well.

Some may  look at the cost and discount their participation. I've come to believe, "where there's a will, there's a way." If this is something you'd benefit from, let's find a way! I've also participated int similar cohorts and paid a lot more. It's one of the best investments, in my opinion, you can make in your leadership. The learning you'll have from the other women and myself will be beyond a conference and these detailed bullet points! And you are worth the investment. Our churches, families, and students desperately NEED the voices of women pouring into them, making decisions, and engaging each other.

Already, the women committed to this cohort are proving we will be learning from across life stages, time zones, denominations, educational backgrounds, and ministry experiences. This is the context by which we are ripe for change!

Interested? Questions? Ready to apply? Connect with me.