Are you stepping into your first leadership role? Is there an emerging leader in your organization in which you want to invest? The NextGen Leader Cohort is designed to give younger leaders the tools to build their leadership capacity based on biblical principles, personal values, and organizational vision. Theory and practice will be woven together so that the skills that are taught will be rooted in the reasons those skills are essential to the participant’s ability to lead in healthy and holy ways.
Participant Profile
This cohort is open to Gen Z and Millennials (Aged 25-40) who are either new to leadership or being prepared for leadership roles. Ideally, the cohort members will be recommended for participation by their mentor or by leaders in their organization.
Who You’ll Meet
Cohort members will meet young leaders from other mission agencies who want to learn from each other and will dialogue with seasoned leaders who are willing to share their experiences.
What You’ll Learn
- A biblical framework for leadership—and why it matters
- Strategies for managing stress
- Skills for navigating conflict
- Time management tips and techniques
- How to build resilience
- Communication skills—both active listening and presenting your ideas
- How to work well on intergenerational teams
Why You Want to Participate
Leadership comes in many shapes and sizes. Learn how you might contribute to the leadership of your organization while continuing to grow as a follower of Jesus. The Emerging Leaders Cohort begins with an Online Cohort meeting (October 20th, 12 p.m. EST) where you will have the opportunity to get to know other cohort members and shape the content of the upcoming Leader Training by telling us which topics are most relevant to you. Next, you will participate in the in-person leadership training retreat in Orlando (December 7-10) and engage in an interactive learning experience with your peers. The four monthly follow-up calls will be facilitated by leadership coaches and tailored to meet the needs of the participants (schedule TBD).
How It Will Help You
You will grow your understanding of leadership and different leadership models, enabling you to identify your leadership values and philosophy. Building on your core values, you will grow in confidence and competence as a leader. By the end of the four-day event you will have created a personal development plan rooted in who you are in Christ and connected to your organization’s mission in a meaningful way. Our 4 post-event cohort calls will offer encouragement and support as you walk out that plan.
Event Overview
Check-in begins at 4 p.m. on December 7, 2026 and our program will start with introductions at 5 p.m. Each day will include devotions, peer to peer learning, a discussion of leadership models, skill building, and dynamic Q&A sessions with seasoned leaders. The in-person gathering ends at noon on December 10, 2026, but the cohort will continue with four monthly virtual follow-up meetings, where participants will be able to continue to refine their leadership skills through ongoing training and development.
Event Facilitators
Justin Vander Ark has more than 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience and currently serves as the VP of Advancement at To Every Tribe. He has held various leadership roles at the organization since 2013, including Director of Communications & Development, VP of Global Operations, COO, and CFO. His hobbies include chess, piano, sports cards, and book hoarding. He lives in Stevensville, Michigan with his wife, Emily, and their four children.
Jenn Williamson, DMin, is the Director of Leadership Formation for Missio Nexus. She is passionate about equipping Christian leaders to guide their organizations to greater effectiveness by developing strategies and systems that reflect the Kingdom of God. She is a co-host of the podcast, GOING: Where God is at Work, discussing global missions. Originally from the US, she has lived and worked in Lyon, France since 2010 where she participates in mentoring pastors and emerging leaders, and training cross-cultural workers. Jenn likes reading, cooking, hiking, and doing pottery.
Special Guests
Andrea Buczynski | VP of Global Development, Cru
Ted Esler | President, Missio Nexus
Venue/Location
San Pedro Spiritual Development Center
95 Bishop Grady Lane | Winter Park, FL 32792
San Pedro is approximately a 30-minute drive from both Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). Transportation to and from the airport is not provided.
Cost
- Members: $749 per person
- Non-Members: $899 per person
Includes
- Introductory Cohort Orientation Call (pre-event)
- Accommodations, meals, and event materials at the in -person gathering
- Ongoing support through monthly group coaching calls after the intensive
Registration closes on Friday, November 20th.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations received on or before Monday, November 9 will be refunded minus a $50 cancellation fee. After that, no refund is available.
Contact
For any questions, please contact us at [email protected].
Missio Nexus encourages interaction on diverse and difficult topics. Be aware that the information shared in this event may not reflect the views of the Missio Nexus staff, board, or other community members.
