Care Begins With Me, formerly known as the Sankofa Black Female Clergy Cohort, is a unique and groundbreaking initiative designed to empower and transform African American women pastors and ministry leaders in Sacramento, CA. By bridging the generational gap and pairing seasoned leaders with emerging talents, we aim to create a vibrant and supportive community deeply rooted in cultural heritage and collective progress.

Who Should Join:

Care Begins With Me is explicitly designed for African American women who are pastors and ministry leaders, whether in traditional or unconventional ministry settings. Our program is uniquely tailored for those seeking to enhance their leadership skills while being part of a community that deeply understands and values their unique experiences and challenges.

Cultural Foundation:

The foundation of our cohort is based on the meaning of “Sankofa,” an African word from the Akan tribe in Ghana. The literal translation is, “It is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind.” It is on the strength of our ancestors that we have achieved success in our lives. Therefore, we must provide the same level of love, guidance, care, and support to those who come after us.

Main Objectives:

1. Empowerment and Transformation:

• Foster personal and professional growth through targeted mentorship and training.
• Equip participants with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in their ministry roles.

2. Community and Support:

• Our program aims to build a supportive network of peers that is crucial in providing encouragement and understanding and fostering personal and professional growth.
• Create a safe space for authenticity where participants can share and grow together.

3. Leadership Development:

• Enhance and advance leadership skills, preparing participants for the challenges of 21st-century ministry.
• Pair experienced leaders with emerging talents to bridge the generational gap, ensuring a continuous exchange of wisdom and fresh perspectives.

4. Commitment to Future Leaders:

• Nurture the next generation of Black female leaders, fortifying current leaders while preparing new ones.
• Foster authentic relationships that contribute to our community’s overall strength and resilience.

Key Components:

• Community Building: Form deep connections with peers and mentors.
• Personality Assessments: Gain insights into your strengths and areas for growth.
• Coaching: Receive guidance and support from experienced leaders.
• Monthly Connection: Engage in regular meetings to maintain momentum and support.
• Exposure to Significant Voices of Leadership: Learn from influential leaders.
• Crucial Conversations: Participate in essential discussions about race, class, and gender.
• Life and Ministry Vision Statement: Develop a clear vision for your ministry and personal life.
• Prophetic Impartation: Receive spiritual guidance and inspiration.
• Intercession: Engage in collective prayer and spiritual support.
• Sponsorship: Benefit from the support and advocacy of established leaders.
• Ministry Friendships: Form lasting relationships with fellow participants.

Commitment: 

Participation in Care Begins With Me requires a nine-month commitment. This commitment is to invest in the development of self-actualization and sisterhood-actualization. You must be willing to continually apply yourself to mastering the essential competencies of your S.H.A.P.E. (Spiritual Gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, Experiences).

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Join Us: 

Embark on a transformative journey that enhances your leadership capacity and surrounds you with a community of peers who share your ecclesiastical experiences and aspirations. Care Begins With Me, is dedicated to lifting each other and thriving together in our ministry callings.