Leadership Wichita Experience

Every so often, you encounter moments that, while you are living it, you realize will remain with you for the rest of your life. Leadership Wichita was one of those transformational experiences for me.

In 2016, I was working at Cargill, who had just announced that they intended to commit to Wichita after briefly considering relocating their Protein Headquarters. This was an inflection point for me, and if Cargill was willing to invest in a community that supported me so well early in my career, then it was time for me to make that same commitment. I became involved with some local non-profits, familiarized myself with the issues that made headlines, and made a poignant effort to get to know my city and county representatives. I knew I loved Wichita. I knew I wanted everyone else to love it just as much for years to come. I had the fuel to create change, but lacked the vehicle to deliver. Then I heard about Leadership Wichita.

To summarize Leadership Wichita in only a few words would serve as an injustice to the program. To put it simply, it is an immersive program through the Chamber that takes various leaders in the community, connects them with one another, exposes them to the challenges that are facing Wichita, and then inspires them to effect change and strengthen the community. But it is so much more than that. It is an open door to places few ever get to see. It is a fraternity of individuals who have a passion for believing this city can be everything it wants to be. It is a collection of these amazing shared experiences that invokes a level of thought that you didn’t even know you had.

The best part? There’s something for everyone! Do you have a passion to strengthen the community’s bond with local non-profits? There’s a day for that. Do you believe the interests of Wichita would be best served with a mix of public and private investment to help create a diversified economy? There’s a day for that. Do you have an opinion on how the river should be best activated? You guessed it, there’s a day for that. Whatever it is you love, there’s something for you. You may even learn a thing or two along the way.

The program is curated by past participants, and the Trustees are careful to ensure that the program remains impactful. As I reflect upon my time spent in Leadership Wichita, I’m reminded of the experiences, but more than that, I’m reminded of the bonds forged and the friendships made. The perspective I gained in 10 days is invaluable, and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to share it with 30 of my best friends.

President Obama once said, “Don’t just get involved. Fight for your seat at the table.” Leadership Wichita is a community of leaders who share a passion for improving this city that we already love. If nominated, I would encourage you to apply and pull up your seat at the table.

If I have learned one thing over this last year, it’s that we must never take anything for granted. As you consider embarking upon this journey, all I ask is that you cherish every minute of it.

Wichita is a canvas just waiting to be painted. Are you ready to make your mark?

Brad Warzeka
Cargill
Leadership Wichita – Class of 2016