Local residents graduate from regional leadership program

Several area residents were among 14 southwest Minnesotans recognized Oct. 20 during the graduation ceremony for the Growing Local: Emerging Leaders program at Little Theatre Auditorium in New London.

Facilitated by Southwest Initiative Foundation, the six-month program helps participants strengthen leadership skills, build relationships across communities, and explore ways to create positive change where they live and work.

Local graduates include:

Makayla Ebbers: Makayla Ebbers of Worthington has experience in financial services, banking, and marketing and currently works at Ameriprise Financial Services. She joined the program to deepen her understanding of community leadership, strengthen local connections, and explore ways collaboration can shape stronger communities and create real opportunities for people.

“Leadership, to me, is about being dependable, listening well, and helping others succeed alongside you,” Ebbers said.

Leslie Gens: Leslie Gens of Slayton is a longtime banker and mother of two interested in becoming more active as a volunteer. She participated in Growing Local: Emerging Leaders looking for new ways to use her talents and strengths to enhance her community.

"Meeting new people and knowing there's such a wealth of knowledge, resources and people in southwest Minnesota is motivational," Gens said. "It motivates me to get involved in a more real way going forward."

Medardo Moreno Castellón: Originally from Nicaragua, Medardo Moreno Castellón of Brewster trained as a veterinarian and works in food safety and production control at JBS Foods. He joined the program to strengthen his leadership skills and increase his impact in both professional and community settings.

“I believe leadership is important because it helps create positive change, improve teamwork, and support others to grow,” Moreno Castellón said.

Iztlacihuatl Ramirez: Iztlacihuatl Ramirez of Worthington works as a technical training manager and is a mother to five kids. She joined the program to connect with other community-minded leaders and deepen her ability to create positive change.

“What inspires me most about leadership is the ability to influence positive change and empower others. To me, leadership is not just about guiding people; it’s about listening, supporting, and helping others discover their own strengths,” Ramirez said.

Jordan Walter: Jordan Walter of Worthington is a Community Health Worker with Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council and a mother to two daughters. She participated in the program to connect with fellow leaders and expand her impact in the community.

"I am inspired by leadership because leaders inspire others to do more. I want everybody to feel welcomed to the table and accepted and that they have a place," Walter said.

Throughout the program, participants engaged in leadership development activities focused on relationship-building, civic engagement, community impact, and collaboration. Sessions happened at different locations, offering a glimpse into unique community spaces around the region.

Southwest Initiative Foundation Community Development Officer Khou Lor helped launch Growing Local: Emerging Leaders in 2023.