NYBLACKMBA ACCELERATED LEADERSHIP PROGRAM 2025 (the alp)

NYBLACKMBA ACCELERATED LEADERSHIP PROGRAM- (ALP)

The Leadership Program: Where Professional Career and Business Elevation Intersect

Become an industry leader that identifies and fosters change

Our Leadership Program is designed for ambitious professionals who wants to elevate in their careers and businesses.

This program will be hybrid with most of its sessions conducted online.

At a Glance: NYBLACKMBA Accelerated Leadership Program

The program includes: discounted tuition and one on one coaching if necessary. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

Degree of Completion Awarded

In Award Ceremony

Program Location

New York, NY

Program Format

Tailored Workshops, Online Videos, Handouts, Coursework and six potential areas of study

Why participate in the NYBLACKMBA ALP Program?

The program is designed to give real world examples and tools to help you succeed in your professional career and business. It offers a carefully tailored curriculum of topics that are trending in today’s professional space and also topics that are geared to professional elevation. This program offers flexibility and gives a peak into the NYBLACKMBA organization and all it stands for. Attendees of the program will be encouraged to become members of the organization, can participate in organization events and benefit from networking opportunities.

Our Faculty/Coaches: Accomplished and dedicated professionals who are experts in their field.

Faculty Spotlight: Learn from leading entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Throughout the program you will hear from and work with thought leaders like these:

Molly K Creese

Program Facilitator - ALP Professional Development Director – NYBLACKMBA CEO & Founder We Network Services LLC & We Women Elevate Speaker|Career& Leadership Coach| Networking Guru

Molly is a highly-rated professional with 10+ years’ experience in mentorship, coaching and leadership. Her elevation method RRA focuses on helping young professionals and women alike realize, recognize and articulate their value in such a way that they quantum leap in their careers and secure a seat at the table or even build their own table. Molly also works with groups and organizations to amplify their authenticity and empower them to become a better version of themselves. She is an Advisor for the Monroe College Business School, The Director of Professional Development for NYBlackMBA and the founder and host of The Network Hour Podcast. She is the CEO of We Network Services LLC and the Founder and President of We Women Elevate Non-Profit Organization.

LATRICIA FRIEND

Resume Writer &Coach|Luxury Lifestyle Manager|Hospitality& Private Residence Concultant|Entrepreneur

At Career Documents LLC, our mission is to empower job seekers with the latest strategies and tools to excel in their job search journey. With a relentless commitment to staying abreast of industry trends, we ensure every client gains a competitive edge in today’s dynamic job market. Our approach involves thorough research and personalized attention to understand each client’s unique strengths and aspirations.

Founded by Latricia Friend, Career Documents LLC specializes in serving clients, especially within niche industries, such as private service, hospitality industries, C-Suite support, and the trades. Our dedicated focus on these sectors allows us to provide tailored solutions that highlight the expertise, skills, and creativity of every job seeker we serve. As a seasoned career documents specialist, Latricia infuses vitality into each client’s professional portfolio, enabling them to stand out and seize exciting opportunities in their chosen field.

RASHEEDA FRAZIER

Strategic Business Consultant &Coach|Entrepreneur|Speaker

Rasheeda Frazier is a dynamic force in business growth, professional development, and entrepreneurship. With a rich background spanning various industries and partnerships, Rasheeda has made her mark as a Business Coach and Consultant. Her passion for empowering businesses has led her to establish successful ventures such as Empowering Greatness Inc., DvineDailyz LLC, and Frazier Notary Services LLC.

Rasheeda’s expertise encompasses business strategy and operational efficiency. She works with small and mid-sized businesses and enterprises to enhance performance, optimize revenue, and create high-performancecultures. Her insights empower entrepreneursto transform their venturesand achieve sustainable growth.

RAHANA GITTENS

Certified Executive Coach|HRExecutive|Motivational Speaker

Rahana Gittens is a highly reputable talent advisor and consultant with over 25 years of hands-on experience. Rahana’s career spans several, well-known private and publicly traded organizations, to include Whole Foods Market, The Home Depot and Ashley Stewart – with a niche focus on founder-led, culturally rich organizations. She is currently AVP of HR at Victoria’s Secret & Co.

Rahana is also owner of RBG Enterprise Consultants, LLC a company she started 3 years ago offering HR Consulting andExecutive Coaching services focusing on accelerating growth of start-up companies and women leaders.

Rahana is a proud immigrant from Grenada and a graduate of Brooklyn College. She lives in NYC with her daughter Kalei and their pup, Kai.

VONETTA HAWKINS

Coach|Real Estate Expert|NationalSpeaker|Board Director

I helm two dynamic organizations: Vonetta Hawkins Consulting Firm, specializing in Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion and Business Growth Strategies; and Home Sweet Home Realty Group, an all-encompassing Real Estate enterprise. At the intersection of leadership, strategic partnerships, and advocacy for diversity, my journey reflects a commitment to inclusive excellence and sustainable business expansion.

Recognized with multiple awards for entrepreneurial spirit and women empowerment, my approach is rooted in education and community engagement. Our team at Home Sweet Home Realty Group, as an extension of my vision, contributes to the real estate sector with comprehensive expertise, while Vonetta Hawkins Consulting Firm champions DEI initiatives that resonate industry-wide, culminating in strategic growth and enriched community relations.

VJ Niles

Strategist|Speaker|Coach|Entrepreneur

Vakassia J. Niles (“V.J.”) is a dynamic strategist, transformational leader, and international speaker with over 20 years of experience spanning four industries. As the founder of The Niles Group, LLC, V.J. is dedicated to helping individuals elevate their careers. She specializes in guiding mid-level professionals through career development, leadership training, and transitions into new industries or entrepreneurship. With extensive experience delivering impactful training sessions and presentations in both academia and the corporate world, V.J. brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as a career strategist.

Her diverse career across multiple industries has equipped her with a deep understanding of how to climb the corporate ladder, pivot between fields, and build a strong professional brand. V.J. empowers mid-level professionals and executives who are feeling stuck, frustrated, or ready for a change to reach new heights in their careers. She helps them find their authentic voice, ensuring they no longer dim their light but instead shine brightly in their professional endeavors. Her clients successfully land new jobs, expand their networks, and move closer to their definitions of success and happiness.

V.J. is a former president of MBA Women NYC, a professional chapter of the National Association of Women MBAs. She is a contributing author of “Just Me: The Business Woman’s Personal Branding Guide” and frequently speaks on topics such as career growth, career pivots, succession planning, and entrepreneurship. She serves as a strategist for both careers and businesses, working with organizations and individuals. Her speaking engagements have included notable companies and events such as Panasonic, Tesla, GlaxoSmithKline, Centene, Enersys, DisruptHR NYC, Atlanta SHRM, NCSHRM, the National Black MBA Association, and the Women’s Leadership and Empowerment Conferences in Thailand and New York City.

Shana Feggins MBA, MPS, SHRM-CP

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusiveness Consultant|AI Specialist

Shana Feggins uses storytelling to connect thoughtfully and mindfully with others to advance the notion of a growth and abundance mindset and inspire innovation.

Shana’s expertise spans diverse fields, including DEI, human resources, EEO/employment law, brand strategy, strategic partnerships and communications, AI and the Future of Work, and mindfulness. Her educational background is equally diverse, with a BA in political science and women’s studies, a master’s degree in strategic public relations from George Washington University, an MBA from Northeastern University, and a range of professional certifications including mental health first aid, mindfulness stress reduction (MSBR), several DEI certificates, and SHRM certification. She is also a registered yoga teacher. Shana’s commitment to continuous learning is evident in her alumni status at the Partnerships Fellows program, University North Carolina School of the Arts, and Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea.

Shana’s commitment to supporting others is evident in her roles as a board member of the United Women in Business Foundation, an alumni advisory council member of GW’s Graduate School of Political Management, and an advisory board member of We Make Noise. She also serves as a mentor for Monday Girl and Women in Technology, where she shares her expertise and experiences to inspire the next generation of leaders.

She resides in New York City and enjoys concerts, yoga, hikes, and foodie adventures in her spare time.

“My love language is bringing other women with me as I rise. There is room for all of us at the top.”

What you’ll Learn: Curriculum Overview

Gain an understanding of the skills needed to succeed as a leader
Learn how to effectively develop your own leadership style and use that knowledge to elevate in your position or advance to new roles.
Learn how to know who you are, articulate your worth and value, and market yourself and your business.
Practice strategic communication, problem-solving, business and personal management for real world situations.
Learn the importance of technology in today’s economy to boost productivity.

Skills you’ll gain

COURSE DETAILS:

COURSE 1: MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR

Instructor/Coach – Latricia Friend

Date – April 2025

Workshop 1: April 22^nd, 7-8.30pm: Management Essentials: Essential Management Skills for Emerging Leaders

This workshop equips emerging leaders with the core management skills needed to succeed in today’s dynamic workplace. Participants will learn key leadership principles, effective communication strategies, team motivation techniques, and decision-making frameworks to confidently lead teams and drive results. Whether you’re stepping into a new leadership role or preparing for future opportunities, this session provides practical tools to enhance your management capabilities.

Workshop 2: April 29^th, 7-8.30pm: How to develop and use Business Analytics

This workshop provides a practical guide to developing and leveraging business analytics to drive informed decision-making. Participants will explore key data analysis techniques, tools, and strategies to extract meaningful insights, improve efficiency, and enhance business performance. Whether you’re new to analytics or looking to refine your approach, this session will help you turn data into actionable business intelligence.

COURSE 2: SCALING WITH STRUCTURE – OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE FOR BUSINESS GROWTH

Instructor/Coach – Rasheeda Frazier

Objective: Help business owners move from chaos to structure, improve team efficiency, and prepare their businesses for scalable growth.

Date –May 2025

What you’ll learn:

Workshop 1: May 15^th, 7-8.30pm: From Hustle to High Performance – The CEO Mindset Shift

Key Focus:

Why scaling requires different thinking than startup mode
The biggest mindset traps keeping business owners overwhelmed
How to transition from “doing everything” to leading strategically
The Owner vs. CEO Framework: What successful business leaders do differently

Interactive Component:

Takeaway:

Workshop 2: May 22^nd, 7-8.30pm: The High-Performing Business Blueprint – Systems, People, and Profitability

Key Focus:

Interactive Component:

Takeaway:

Deliverable:

Workshop 3: May 29^th, 7-8.30pm: Team Development & Leadership Structure for Scaling

Key Focus:

Interactive Component:

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Deliverable:

COURSE 3: MASTERING MARKETING YOU

Instructor/Coach – VJ Niles

Date –June 2025

Workshop 1: June 4^th, 7-8.30pm: Creating Brand, YOU or Brand for YOU: A guide to building a brand for your career or business

Stand out and build a brand that speaks for you! Whether you’re growing your career or launching a business, this course provides a step-by-step framework to define your brand identity, craft a compelling message, and establish credibility. You’ll walk away with a personalized brand strategy, clear action steps, and the confidence to position yourself for success.

Workshop 2: June 11^th, 7-8.30pm: Understanding Your Target Audience

Attract, engage, and grow your audience with a powerful marketing strategy! This course helps you define your ideal customer, craft compelling messaging, and choose the best marketing channels for your venture. By the end, you’ll have a strategic roadmap to boost your visibility and accelerate growth.

Workshop 3: June 18^th, 7-8.30pm: Developing a Marketing Strategy for your Venture

Resource:The Marketing Toolbox: Essential tools to help your Marketing Strategy

Know your audience, grow your business! Understanding your customers’ needs is the key to effective marketing. This course helps you identify their pain points, craft tailored solutions, and develop engagement strategies that build lasting relationships. Get the insights you need to connect authentically and drive results. Plus get the essential tools and resources to help with your marketing strategy.

COURSE 4: TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION MANAGEMENT – THE NEW AGE

Instructor/Coach – Shana Feggins

Date –July 2025

Course Overview: Technology and Information Management – Leading in the AI-Driven Era

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, leaders must harness the power of AI and

emerging technologies to stay ahead. This course provides a cutting-edge approach to

leadership development, equipping professionals with AI-driven strategies to enhance

innovation, decision-making, productivity, and digital presence.

Through three dynamic modules, participants will:

Cultivate an innovative mindset to navigate industry disruptions and leverage AI for strategic decision-making.
Optimize professional growth by integrating AI tools for branding, audience engagement, and thought leadership.
Build digital trust and manage their online reputation with AI-powered strategies for credibility, authenticity, and brand protection.

By the end of this course, participants will have a strong foundation in using AI for leadership

success, career advancement, and maintaining a competitive edge in the digital-first world.

Workshop 1: Cultivating an Innovative Leadership Mindset – Date – July 14, 2025

Key Topics:

Building a Personal Culture of Innovation - Develop an innovation mindset by embracing experimentation, leveraging AI, andstaying ahead of emerging industry trends to enhance your leadership journey.
AI-Driven Decision-Making for Leaders - Utilize AI-powered insights to navigate career challenges, identify opportunities, andaccelerate professional growth through data-driven strategies.
Creating Collaborative and Impactful Networks -Master techniques to build inclusive, idea-driven environments where you connect with like-minded professionals, share insights, and foster meaningful collaborations.

Workshop 2: AI-Driven Professional Growth and Leadership Branding – Date – July 21, 2025

Key Topics:

AI-Powered Productivity and Career Optimization- Leverage AI tools to streamline workflows, enhance efficiency, and support better timemanagement for leadership success.
AI-Driven Career Strategy and Thought Leadership -Leverage AI and predictive analytics to assess industry trends, optimize your LinkedInpresence, generate impactful content, and personalize audience engagement toenhance your professional brand and leadership positioning.
Ethical Leadership in a Tech-Driven World - Ensure authenticity, credibility, and transparency while using AI for brand-building andleadership presence.

Workshop 3: Building Digital Trust and Managing Your Online Reputation – Date – July 28, 2025

Key Topics:

AI’s Role in Establishing Leadership Credibility - Cultivate trust, enhance digital presence, and reinforce your reputation as a forwardthinking leader using AI.
Navigating Misinformation and Content AuthenticityUse AI-powered tools to detect misinformation, safeguard your personal brand, andmaintain authenticity in digital spaces.
Strategic Online Presence and Reputation Management - Implement best practices for managing your digital footprint, leveraging AI for visibility,and ensuring alignment with your leadership goals.

COURSE 5: THE EXECUTIVE EDGE: ADVANCING LEADERSHIP & GROWTH

Instructor/Coach – Rahana Gittens

Date –August 2025

Workshop1: August 18^th 7-8pm: The Foundation of Executive Leadership-Mastering Self-Leadership and Authentic Influence

Description: Develop self-awareness, resilience, and authenticity as a foundation for powerful leadership

(Includes a self-assessment and reference tool)

Workshop 2: August 21^st, 7-8pm: The Art of Influence – Power, Authority and Strategic Leadership Presence

Description: Master the dynamics of power, authority, and executive presence to drive influence and decision-making.

[Guest speaker: TBD]

(Includes pre-read/case study)

Workshop 3: August 25^th, 7-8pm: Elevating your Leadership for Next Level Success

Description: Strengthen strategic leadership capabilities to drive career growth, business expansion, and high-impact leadership.

COURSE 6: MASTERING PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH

Instructor/Coach – Molly Creese& Vonetta Hawkins

Date –August 2025

Workshop 1: August 4^th, 7-8.30pm: Storytelling – Your Brand Message

In today’s crowded marketplace, a compelling brand story is essential for standing out and making a lasting impact. “Storytelling – Your Brand Message” is a dynamic course designed to help professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives craft authentic and persuasive narratives that resonate with their audience.

you’ll learn how to:

Identify the core values and mission that define your brand
Develop a unique and engaging brand voice
Use storytelling frameworks to create memorable and impactful messaging
Tailor your story for different platforms and audiences
Build trust and emotional connections with your customers, clients, or community

Whether you’re launching a business, refining your personal brand, or enhancing your company’s messaging, this course will equip you with the tools to tell your story effectively and drive meaningful engagement.

Workshop 2: August 11^th, 7-8.30pm:Combating Burnout – Navigating & Overcoming Toxic Work Environments

Toxic work environments can drain motivation, increase stress, and lead to burnout, impacting both personal well-being and professional performance. This interactive workshop is designed to help employees, managers, and leaders recognize the signs of toxicity in the workplace, develop strategies to protect their mental health, and foster a culture of resilience and well-being.

In this workshop, participants will learn:

How to identify toxic workplace behaviors and their impact
Practical strategies to manage stress and prevent burnout
Techniques for setting boundaries and advocating for a healthier work environment
How to cultivate emotional resilience and workplace well-being
Steps for fostering positive change, whether staying or transitioning to a new role

Through real-world case studies, guided discussions, and actionable takeaways, this workshop will empower you to regain control, protect your energy, and create a path toward a healthier and more fulfilling work life.

Workshop 3: August 13^th, 7-8.30pm: Building and Sustaining a Professional Network

Success isn’t just about what you know—it’s about who you know and how you cultivate those relationships. “Building and Sustaining a Professional Network” is an interactive workshop designed to help professionals at all stages develop meaningful connections, expand their opportunities, and leverage their networks for long-term success.

In this workshop, participants will learn:

The fundamentals of strategic networking and relationship-building
How to approach networking with authenticity and confidence
Techniques for maintaining and nurturing professional connections over time
How to leverage social media and in-person events effectively
Ways to turn connections into opportunities for career growth and collaboration

Through hands-on exercises, real-world strategies, and expert insights, you’ll leave with the tools to build a strong, sustainable network that supports your professional and personal growth.

Whether you’re looking to advance your career, grow your business, or expand your influence, this workshop will equip you with the skills to network with purpose and impact.

CAPSTONE: REALIZE, RECOGNIZE AND ARTICULATE YOUR VALUE – TYING IT ALL TOGETHER – AUGUST 27^TH @7PM

As leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals in an evolving business landscape, success is not just about expertise—it’s about owning your value, communicating it with confidence, and leveraging it for impact. This capstone experience brings together key lessons from leadership, entrepreneurship, business strategy, marketing, personal branding, AI, and professional development to help you synthesize your skills and position yourself for long-term success.

In this immersive session, you will:

Realize your unique value by aligning strengths, expertise, and leadership capabilities with strategic goals.
Recognize how your personal and professional brand influences opportunities, growth, and market positioning.p capabilities with strategic goals.
Articulate your value with clarity and confidence—whether in leadership conversations, business negotiations, or digital presence.

We will explore high-level strategies to refine your executive presence, leverage AI for enhanced decision-making, navigate market shifts with agility, and communicate your worth in ways that drive career and business growth.

Through interactive discussions, case studies, and executive-level coaching, this capstone will equip you with the tools to lead with authority, build meaningful influence, and ensure that your contributions are seen, valued, and rewarded.

This is your opportunity to step forward with confidence, owning your impact in the business world. Are you ready to realize, recognize, and articulate your value at the highest level?

OTHER EVENTS: NETWORKING BOOT CAMP: BUILDING STRATEGIC CONNECTIONS FOR LASTING IMPACT – DATE: JUNE 26^TH 2025 – THIS EVENT IS IN-PERSON

The Networking Boot Camp is an intensive, hands-on experience designed for mid-to-senior level professionals, executives, and entrepreneurs looking to refine their networking skills, build high-value connections, and strategically expand their influence.

What to Expect:
This boot camp goes beyond traditional networking advice, offering a dynamic mix of:

Interactive Exercises – Engage in real-time networking simulations to practice introductions, elevator pitches, and relationship-building techniques.
Case Studies – Analyze real-world examples of executives and business leaders who have used networking to unlock career opportunities, secure investments, and drive business growth.
Personalized Strategy Development – Create a tailored networking action plan that aligns with your career or business goals.
AI & Digital Tools – Learn how to leverage AI-driven insights, LinkedIn optimization, and digital networking strategies to expand your reach.
Executive Roundtable Discussions – Exchange insights with peers and industry leaders on best practices for maintaining and strengthening professional relationships.

Key Takeaways:

Learn how to confidently initiate and sustain meaningful professional relationships.
Master the art of strategic networking in high-stakes environments.
Develop a personal networking strategy that fosters long-term career and business success.
Understand the role of mentorship, sponsorship, and alliances in career progression.
Walk away with actionable tactics to build influence, open new opportunities, and create a lasting professional presence.

This boot camp is not just about meeting people—it’s about building a network that works for you.

ADDITIONAL PROGRAM DETAILS:

IDEAL CANDIDATES FOR THE NYBLACKMBA ACCELERATED LEADERSHIP PROGRAM ARE:

Engaged in full-time work at the mid - senior level for at least 3-10 years, occupying roles with increasing responsibility, visibility, and impact both through their career and their community involvement, and a focus on driving impact.
Growth-oriented and actively seeking to enhance their leadership skills.
Committed to career advancement and taking on leadership roles in corporate, non-profit space or owning businesses.
Willingness to fully engage in the program’s workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking events.
Currently residing in the New York Metro or New Jersey area.
Open to mentorship and coaching from senior executives and program faculty.
Desire to accelerate career trajectory and build influence within their industry.
Understanding of and commitment to the mission of NYBLACKMBA and its impact on economic empowerment and leadership.
Availability to commit to the full duration of the program, including virtual and in-person sessions.
Demonstrated leadership experience, either through management roles, project leadership, or community engagement.
Strong ability to think strategically, solve complex problems, and drive impact in their field.
MBA Degree NOT REQUIRED.