The Culture of Health Leaders program may officially last three years, but according to leaders themselves, the effects of participating can last a lifetime. Recent alumna Adeola Sonaike, PhD, MPH, wrote a moving reflection on her personal journey and the rich relationships she built as a result of her experience. “Our cohort was filled with community organizers, researchers, architects, creatives, practitioners and educators; despite our diverse backgrounds we acknowledged, appreciated, respected, and valued our differences,” she writes, and “Something special would happen each time we came together.”

Dr. Adeola Sonaike works as a senior vice president of health and innovation at The Family Resource Network in NJ where she ensures the inclusivity and accessibility of health services for people with disabilities. And as she and her cohort transition to alumni of the program, she has a message to share about what to expect from this powerful group: “Keep an eye out for us, we are only just getting started. We’ll be the ones who dare to speak out and show up, who dare to go against the status quo and challenge systems, and who dare to hold you accountable for the impact of your actions irrespective of what your intentions were. Why? Because the health of our nation for future generations is depending on us.”

Think you—or someone you know—might be a system-challenger too? Find out about applying to the program and read more about Dr. Sonaike and her colleagues.