Focused on a Mission
To nurture the leadership potential in our students by providing life-enriching opportunities, empowering them to become future leaders of Milwaukee and beyond.
Since 2011, Future Urban Leaders (FUL) has been dedicated to extending leadership development beyond the classroom, empowering Milwaukee’s black youth with the tools necessary for personal and professional success. Our goal is to close the opportunity gap by increasing black student access to enrichment opportunities and forming impactful partnerships with families and community organizations.
Founded in 2014 by two childhood friends
—one a local business executive and the other a public-school teacher—FUL began as an athletic enrichment and mentorship program with a small cohort of 13 students. Meeting twice a week, the program provided academic support and athletic development. Over time, FUL’s focus expanded to include comprehensive mentorship, academic achievement, community engagement, and health and wellness.
Today, FUL serves over 150 students, working collaboratively with community partners and the 80 families within our network to continue empowering the next generation of leaders.
FUTURE URBAN LEADERS WILL…
…discover their identity and engage in activities that highlight the importance of valuing diversity. Through self-reflection and community interaction, they will begin to uncover their values and explore what brings them happiness.
Leaders Explorers
Discernment
Discernment
…engage in intentional self-reflection, drawing wisdom from continuous learning and diverse perspectives. They will learn to balance urgency with patience, actively listen to understand different viewpoints, and adapt to change with resilience. By cultivating self-awareness and considering the greater good, Fellows will contribute meaningfully to their communities. This commitment to thoughtful decision-making empowers them to align their actions with their passions, rooted in a comprehensive understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Leadership Fellows
Discernment
Aligning purpose, values, and passions for individual and community growth.
…build self-confidence by creating social identity maps and vision boards. These activities encourage reflection on passions and joys, helping participants recognize and celebrate their unique selves.
Leadership Creators
…explore their core values, understand the impact of peer and societal pressures, and develop positive daily affirmations. This journey fosters a deeper understanding of self-worth and empowers participants to stand confidently in their beliefs.
Leadership Advocates
Foundations of Leadership
Our approach to cultivating the next generation of leaders is built on these core principles:
Justice
Justice
Justice
Ensuring student access to equitable and inclusive systems, with a commitment to understanding the impact of justice in our lives.
FUTURE URBAN LEADERS WILL…
…dive into the concepts of fairness and injustice by practicing empathy, respecting diverse identities and opinions, and standing up for what is right.
Leaders Explorers
…discover and embrace their own identities while valuing the dignity of others, appreciating diversity, and championing equitable treatment for everyone.
Leadership Creators
…understand that justice is universal, analyze various forms of injustice within their communities, and critically examine the underlying reasons behind these issues.
Leadership Advocates
…embody the principles of justice, fairness, and respect for all by creating an environment where every voice and perspective is valued. Fellows are encouraged to advocate for fairness and drive positive change within their school communities, empowering themselves to shape a better future.
Leadership Fellows
FUTURE URBAN LEADERS WILL…
…recognize and harness the power of their own voice by learning to ask insightful questions, share their opinions, and advocate for their community through a justice-oriented perspective.
Leaders Explorers
Empowerment
Empowerment
…enhance their leadership skills, pursue their passions, and tackle challenges beyond their comfort zones. They will be part of a supportive community where each student is inspired to lead authentically and resiliently throughout their high school journey. Grounded in empowerment, our approach to leadership involves uplifting others and creating an inclusive atmosphere where every contribution is valued. We actively promote opportunities for Fellows to make a positive impact on the entire community.
Leadership Fellows
Empowerment
Fostering growth through knowledge acquisition, self-advocacy, self-preservation, and goal setting, while encouraging community support.
…feel empowered to use their voices as leaders, promoting their academic, social, and emotional well-being in ways that foster self-confidence and support others in making informed choices.
Leadership Creators
…advocate for themselves and others by setting goals, seeking and utilizing advice, and understanding their rights as citizens.
Leadership Advocates
Future Urban Leaders
Enriching students’ lives as future leaders of Milwaukee and beyond.
