Nearly 140 of the nation’s top HBCU students head to D.C. for real-world readiness training with leaders from Disney, National Geographic, and more.
This month, nearly 140 high-achieving students from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) will convene in Arlington, Virginia for a transformative professional development experience. The 15th Annual UNCF Student Leadership Conference (SLC), taking place May 28–30 at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel, is more than a leadership summit—it’s a launchpad for tomorrow’s changemakers.
Spearheaded by Arnika Jackson, Director of UNCF’s Student Professional Development Programs, this year’s conference features an ambitious new structure aimed at immersing students in real-world workplace scenarios. Designed for rising juniors and seniors, SLC 2025 integrates advanced leadership coaching, intensive internship training, and one-of-a-kind engagement with senior executives from top companies like Disney, National Geographic, and others.
What Sets This Year Apart?
“This year, it’s all about real-world learning,” says Jackson. “Students won’t just be listening to lectures—they’ll be doing the work, solving the problems, and stepping into leadership roles before graduation.”
New to the 2025 SLC is an expanded experiential curriculum that includes:
A business simulation replicating the fast-paced, multigenerational dynamics of today’s professional environments A “speed dating”-style mentorship session connecting students with interns and young professionals A student-led podcast production track for aspiring media professionals and storytellers
The aim, Jackson emphasizes, is to bridge the gap between aspiration and achievement. “These young people are walking into competitive internships, and this training ensures they do so with confidence, competence, and the ability to lead.”
Real-World Readiness Through Hands-On Experience
The business simulation will challenge students to make executive decisions under pressure, navigate leadership dilemmas, and adapt to unpredictable shifts—mirroring real workplace scenarios. “They’ll tackle things like budget cuts, managing up, and leading among peers—skills they’ll need whether they’re entering tech, nonprofit, or corporate sectors,” Jackson explains.
Meanwhile, the speed-mentorship session brings together past participants and early-career professionals who have successfully transitioned from internships to full-time roles. “There’s no better advice than from someone who has just walked the road you’re about to start on.”
Post-COVID Growth: From Screen Time to Face Time
The UNCF Student Leadership Conference has also taken aim at a new challenge: the lingering effects of remote learning on interpersonal communication. “We’re seeing that students need support in building in-person relationships again,” says Jackson. “We’re helping them step beyond the screen to develop authentic connections and communication skills that employers are looking for.”
Empowering Student Voices Through Podcasting
The introduction of a student-led podcast track speaks directly to Gen Z’s creative instincts and media fluency. “Today’s students are natural storytellers,” Jackson says. “With this initiative, they’re learning how to shape and share their experiences professionally—how to build a personal brand, a platform, and a message.”
It’s also a space for students to voice the challenges, successes, and growth they’re experiencing in real time. “There’s power in hearing from students in the process of transformation—not just the outcome,” she adds.
Corporate Partnership with Purpose
Behind the scenes, corporate partners like Disney and National Geographic are helping shape the curriculum and mentorship experiences. These companies, Jackson says, are doing more than offering internships—they’re investing in leadership development.
“They understand that success in the workplace requires more than technical knowledge,” Jackson notes. “Soft skills, adaptability, cultural competence—these are essential, and our partners trust us to deliver that.”
Looking Ahead
As SLC marks its 15th anniversary, Jackson reflects on the conference’s evolution: “This year’s theme is about building the bridge where innovation meets learning. We’re not just preparing students for jobs—we’re preparing them to lead, influence, and innovate. That’s the real legacy of this work.”
For the students gathering in Arlington this May, the journey toward leadership is just beginning—but thanks to the UNCF Student Leadership Conference, they won’t be walking it alone.
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