African American Leadership Forum-Des Moines

02/13/2026

Congratulations to African American Leadership Forum-Des Moines alumni Rae Luna on her acceptance into Lead DSM Community Connect!

02/07/2026

Join us on Monday, February 9th beginning at 5pm for good times with great people!
Meet us at Palms DSM to enjoy the vibe, refreshments, music, social games + prizes. Cash bar.
❤️RSVP today to save your spot and as always - bring a friend who needs this!

01/28/2026

❤️Join us on Monday, February 9 beginning at 5pm for good times with great people!
Meet us at Palm's DSM to enjoy the vibe, refreshments, music, games + prizes. Cash bar.
❤️RSVP to save your spot and as always, bring a friend who needs this!

01/15/2026

We are proud to unveil The Directors Council 2026 Advocacy Agenda.

This agenda reflects the voices, experiences, and priorities of our community and outlines how we are advancing policies that strengthen opportunity, stability, and equity across our state and local systems.

We believe informed communities build stronger systems. That is why TDC will continue to provide education, updates, and engagement opportunities throughout this legislative session and beyond.

Check back often to stay informed, stay engaged, and take action alongside us.

https://www.tdcdsm.org/advocacy-agenda-2026 for more information on our advocacy agenda.

12/16/2025

Apply today for AALA! Applications are open for the 2026 African American Leadership Program. This 9-month development opportunity is designed for Black professionals who are ready to build skills and develop alongside a cohort committed to uplifing community in Central Iowa. Find the application form here: https://forms.gle/QUwthYJudjRA5915A

11/07/2025

Congratulations to the 2025 AALA Fellows!
This group of dynamic individuals deserves their flowers for the hard work and investment in themselves. Because of this, they will continue showing up for others and making a difference in our - that is how we make change!

10/11/2025

Please meet Dana Hall, African American Leadership Academy, Class of 2025! Dana understands that higher education and employment opportunities can open doors to financial inclusion. Dana is a determined advocate and coach, who uplifts others to achieve their full potential.

10/11/2025

Please meet Sabur Muhammad, African American Academy Class of 2025. Sabur is inspired by those who know themselves, and understand the impact of collective action. Sabur is passionate about sharing wisdom and knowledge to engage our youth.

09/22/2025

Happy Fall, ya'll 🍂 BUPs and AALA Alumni🍁we'll see you on the patio tomorrow!

📅Tuesday, Sept. 23rd
🕔5 - 7:30pm

🎉New job? New hair? New attitude? Come through and let us celebrate you!

04/09/2025

We are thrilled to officially welcome the African American Leadership Academy, Class of 2025! Please meet Annette Wright, a passionate advocate for early childhood education. Annette is building a that lasts, by pouring into our youth.

04/08/2025

AALA Alumni and supporters - please share this development opportunity with rising HS sophomores, juniors, and seniors!

Lead DSM's Youth Leadership Initiative helps students become better leaders for their schools and communities. Applications for the YLI Class of 2026 are due on April 14th. Help us recruit for the next amazing YLI cohort by spreading the word to the students and educators you know!