A dynamic start to a year of growth and impact: Leadership FMWF session one recap

Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo (LFMWF) is an empowering experience that engages, elevates and transforms our community's leaders of today and tomorrow. In this program, our participants build an impactful, long-lasting network of other leaders while sharpening their own leadership capabilities, exploring many challenges and opportunities of our community, and contributing to the vitality of our region through Community Change Initiatives.

The 2025 LFMWF cohort kicked off on August 8, embarking on an exciting journey that set the stage for the year ahead. The day included a program overview, where participants shared fun facts, got to know each other, and set both individual and group goals to guide their experience throughout the year.

This year's cohort collectively set four key goals to guide them throughout the year:

• Be authentic.
• Be present and engaged.
• Focus on impact and action.
• Build lasting relationships.

The session then introduced the Community Change Initiative project where participants tackle significant community issues while making a tangible impact. A panel of past LFMWF participants shared their insights, discussing their successes, challenges and the outcomes of their involvement.

At lunch, the cohort reconvened for an afternoon session on communication styles, led by 2017 LFMWF alum Mitch Johnson. Participants identified their communication styles and learned how to communicate effectively from different perspectives, gaining valuable and engaging insights.

The day wrapped up with a trust-building activity that applied the communication styles discussed earlier, solidifying the cohort's connection and setting a strong foundation for the year ahead. The group is ready to grow both individually and collectively, making a lasting impact on the community.

Looking ahead, the cohort will head to the Character Challenge Course in September, where they'll tackle physical and mental challenges designed to build resilience, teamwork and leadership skills. This high-energy experience will push participants out of their comfort zones, fostering deeper connections and reinforcing the core goals set in the first session. Renowned for its dynamic outdoor environment, the course excels at bringing out the best in leaders by encouraging risk-taking, problem-solving and trust-building.

As the LFMWF journey continues, each session will build on these lessons, providing participants with the tools and experiences necessary to make a meaningful impact in their personal and professional lives. Follow their progress on the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce social media pages, blog and eBridge, for updates and insights into the challenges and triumphs that define the LFMWF experience.