Overview

The New American Leadership Institute (NALI) is an annual four-session civics academy for emerging leaders from immigrant and refugee communities to learn about the structure of local government, hone leadership skills, network with peers, and identify opportunities for civic participation. These sessions prepare NALI participants to serve as ambassadors for their communities!

Conversational English is required to apply. Please check back in August 2025 for more details.

Previous NALI Sessions
Group of people standing in a domed government building
People in an upscale government office stand around a wooden desk

Sessions have included:

  • Leadership training, including different leadership styles and how to facilitate group decision making
  • Introduction to local government and city structure
  • Panels with elected officials and local neighborhood safety organizations
  • Presentations from Mayor's Offices and Baltimore City agencies about their services and functions
  • Information about the use of federal funds in local government
  • Explanation of how private and public partners collaborate to provide resources for immigrant communities

"NALI has helped me to... prepare for a better future that works for everyone else."

– 2023 NALI Participant

People sit in rows of desks as a lecturer gives presentation
People sitting in rows of tables converse