Critical Friends Program – Individual professionals

an in-depth leadership program for (aspiring) executives

Are you a professional with leadership ambitions or experience, and want to deepen your skills in inclusive leadership? ECHO is now offering a unique opportunity to participate in the Critical Friends Program (CFP).

In a series of 4 interactive meetings, you will be introduced to the principles of inclusive leadership inspired by Indigenous and African philosophies, based on the book “Salsa, Soul & Spirit: Leadership for a Multicultural Age” by Juana Bordas. You will work with practical case studies and develop your vision and approach as an inclusive leader.

A unique component of this program is the involvement of ECHO Ambassadors, socially active young people of color who were once nominated for the ECHO Award because of their leadership qualities. These young people bring their lived experiences and insights on diversity and inclusion and participate as your critical friends. Together with them, you will have the opportunity to identify blind spots, explore different perspectives and further develop your leadership role.

What to expect?

      • Theory and Practice: Explore the 9 principles of inclusive leadership and apply them to your personal and professional context.

      • Network of Critical Friends: Become part of a diverse network of professionals and youth sharing experiences, perspectives and insights.

      • Exchange with ECHO Ambassadors: Engage with socially active young people of color who enrich and enhance your ideas with their unique perspectives.

      • Personal Development: Work on your action perspective and develop concrete strategies for inclusive impact.

Why participate?

At a time when issues around diversity and inclusion are becoming increasingly important, this program gives you the tools to demonstrate effective and inclusive leadership. Whether you are an experienced leader or emerging talent, the CFP gives you the tools to make an impact from an inclusive approach.

Practical information

For whom: Individual professionals interested in inclusive leadership and issues related to diversity and social safety.

When: September 25 to November 13, 2025.

      • Meeting 1: September 25 from 13.00-17.00
      • Meeting 2: October 2 from 13.00-17.00
      • Meeting 3: October 30 from 13.00-17.00
      • Meeting 4: November 13 from 13.00-17.00

Cost: € 2.800,- ex VAT

Sign up: See this registration form.

Locatie: Congrescentrum Den Haag, Den Haag.

Seize this opportunity to take your leadership skills to the next level and become part of a movement toward more inclusiveness in the workplace! For more information, contact Pravini@echo-net.nl.