Equity Leaders Fellowship NH c/o BLM NH

The Equity Leaders Fellowship (ELF) Program is thrilled to have just graduated our 12th cohort of ELF Fellows!

The Equity Leaders Fellowship (ELF) program was conceived in 2014 by five mid-career Leaders of Color, with input from a broader network of diverse community leaders, co-creating the shared vision out of an urgent need to nurture the next generation of leaders in New Hampshire. ELF creates a supportive environment to grow the relationship networks of community leaders for collective action and positive community change. We grow the pipeline of leaders from communities that have been most impacted by systems of racial injustice to take leadership positions on community committees, boards of directors, and other state & local civic engagement opportunities. There have been 12 Cohorts, for a combined total of 150 Fellows though June 2026. 

 The Equity Leaders Fellowship (ELF) program grows the network of engaged leaders for positive community change.  The overall goal of ELF is dual: to build a deep understanding of equity and capacity for collective action around priority community issues, and; to build a network of engaged fellows/alumni, mentors, community advisors, and faculty with strong personal and professional relationships.

Here's what a few fellows have said about their experience in ELF:

• “The Equity Leaders Fellowship has been a journey of self-discovery, growth, and connection. It has challenged me, inspired me, and ultimately transformed me in ways I never thought possible. As I move forward from this experience, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose and a deep appreciation for the power of community.”

• "I have realized the importance of the network... we're all interconnected... the fact that I can consider calling NH home is a big step for me because of what ELF did for me."

• “This is one of the first spaces I’ve been in designed for POC that is designed for people like me.  My mindset has become more constructive – what can I do in the future.  What can I do for myself?  How can I be more positive… It’s a mindset change, and I’m reaping the benefits… Honestly, I have never felt happier.”

• “The Fellowship wasn't just about personal growth. It was also about building connections—real, meaningful connections that go beyond the surface. I've made some incredible friends and connections along the way, people I know I can lean on so I don't feel alone anymore in NH. Together, we've shared laughter, tears, and everything in between, and I know these relationships will last a lifetime.”

• "No longer will I stay silent. I will continue to advocate for individuals who are being marginalized and oppressed."

• “As the fellowship unfolded, it became so much more than I ever imagined. Yes, there were discussions, but they were anything but routine. They were moments of genuine reflection, where we delved deep into our own experiences and perspectives. And the best part? It wasn't just about talking. It was about listening, supporting each other, and seeing things from angles we never even considered.”

 Your NHGives contribution recognizes the important impact ELF has collectively made over the 12 years and supports ELF’s sustainability into the future.

 Who We Are 

Your donation will be processed and appear as a payment to Black Lives Matter New Hampshire because the Equity Leaders Fellowship is administratively housed at BLM NH.