Testimonials
Amy Hjerstedt at a voter registration event at her community’s Mosque
“VAPLP is the training to go to to learn and grow leadership skills, network and build independent political power. This project is a serious program, organized with thoughtful curriculums that challenge students who want to truly make an impact for the greater good in Virginia politics and public policy.”
— AMY HJERSTEDT, VAPLP COHORT 5
“I would and have recommended the program to other progressive leaders in Virginia. I have become a much stronger organizer due to the leadership and mentorship from so many influential individuals who have paved the way for myself and others. I am more determined to give a great return on their investment in me by going out and being the change that needs to happen. Knowing I have a group of people behind me pushing, challenging, and motivating me to be better is completely invaluable. Thank you more than I could ever say. I will just show it by leading.”
— MONICA HUTCHINSON, NEW VIRGINIA MAJORITY, VAPLP COHORT 5
Kenneth Gilliam
“This is a great program. It plays a key role in helping to diversify the leadership of the Commonwealth.”
— KENNETH GILLIAM, THE COMMONWEALTH INSTITUTE, VAPLP COHORT 5
“Thank you so much for your great work! VAPLP is the best training program I have ever attended. Not only the contents of the training, but also the people I met in the program. I already started to using the knowledge to organize some events in the community. I will continue to do so. The cohort 3 is a big family, we will help and support each other forever! Thank you all for helping me being a better person!”
— BECKY WANG, MEMBER OF SEIU VIRGINIA 512, COHORT 3
Kofi Annan Speaking at the VAPLP Cohort 5 Graduation
“The VAPLP program far exceeded my expectations. Even though I was already in a leadership position as the president of the Fairfax NAACP, I never really gave much real thought to broadening my horizons beyond that role. After all, I only had a few years of advocacy under my belt at the time, and know very little beyond what was going on beyond the county borders. So I was honestly still a little unsure of myself. But the VAPLP gave me a ton of confidence, and it wasn’t just about the knowledge gained, but because I knew that I was surrounded by a network of passionate supporters who would have my back. I left the program a changed person that knew that the sky was the limit.”