PEACH's EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
PEACH Executive Director Fellowship
The PEACH Executive Director Fellowship develops the next generation of community-focused executive leaders. It prioritizes Black, racialized, and equity-deserving individuals dedicated to advancing community health, justice, education, and well-being.
About the Fellowship
Launched in 2025, the Executive Director Fellowship provides emerging and mid-career leaders with mentorship, strategic leadership experience, and hands-on learning alongside PEACH’s Executive Director and team.
- Nonprofit governance and board relations
- Program design and evaluation
- Community-engaged leadership
- Fund development and partnerships
Fellows are chosen through a rigorous application and interview process that assesses values alignment, community impact, and readiness for executive leadership.
Our Inaugural 2025–2026 Cohort
In 2025, PEACH welcomed its first cohort of Executive Director Fellows, marking a significant milestone for the organization.
Fellowship Highlights
During the fellowship, the cohort:
- Participated in leadership coaching and mentorship with PEACH’s Executive Director
- Engaged in real-time strategy, planning, and problem-solving for community programs
- Contributed to PEACH’s mission of promoting education and community health
The fellowship concluded with a celebration in which PEACH honoured the inaugural fellows and recognized their commitment, leadership, and contributions.
Looking Ahead
The Executive Director Fellowship will continue to serve as a key leadership pipeline for PEACH and the broader community. Future cohorts will build on the foundation established by Kamal, Louissa, and Melany, who set a strong standard as the first fellows.
2025-2026 Fellows
Kamal Powell
Kamal has experience in community building, strategic planning, and advocacy, with a focus on improving systems for marginalized communities. During the fellowship, Kamal enhanced skills in executive decision-making, collaborative leadership, and long-term organizational planning.
Louissa Barnes
Louissa is a multidisciplinary creative and community leader whose work includes storytelling, youth engagement, and social impact projects. Through the fellowship, she strengthened her skills in nonprofit operations, governance, and turning creative visions into sustainable initiatives.
Melany Nang’ayo Barasa
Melany (Imani) is a multidisciplinary professional whose work spans social impact, advocacy, and community-centred practice. As a fellow, she focused on leadership for equity-oriented initiatives, organizational strategy, and the development of structures to sustain grassroots work.