Traneisha English is an experienced youth development professional and servant leader from Indianapolis Indiana who has spent her entire career in the non-profit sector. Currently, as Director of Field Operations at Playworks Traneisha and her team provide consultative support around social-emotional learning and safe and healthy play in Marion County area schools.  In her free time, Traneisha volunteers with several community organizations, hosts a podcast, and works to advance her personal mission of empowering young leaders to reach their full potential no matter their circumstances.

When I was asked to share about my experience with the Mitch Daniels Leadership Fellowship so far I jumped at the opportunity.  While Class V just launched a few months ago, I have already learned so much, made some valuable connections and been challenged personally and professionally. While all of the sessions so far have been phenomenal, it was the tone set in our orientation that set me up for success and has impacted my journey so far.  

When I was selected to be a part of Class V of the MDLF I remember experiencing two very strong emotions. The first: excitement. Excited for the opportunity to learn more about the state of Indiana, to grow as a leader and at the possibility of impacting change in my community.  While my excitement is what I shared outwardly, internally I was a bit nervous. I had no idea what to expect or how to prepare and I am a person who likes to know what I can expect and be prepared. So I set up a time to meet with Noah Scott, MDLF’s membership director,  thinking that he would answer all my questions. He did not. In fact the only thing he would share with me about our first session together was:

1. The schedule is redacted

2. Wear walking shoes

I did my best to put on a brave face but I will admit, that is not what I wanted to hear, and it only made my nerves worse.  

However, in hindsight, not sharing the details of the session was the best choice.  Not knowing what to expect allowed me and my fellows to show up open to the process, trust our instincts, and make genuine connections. It also forced us to be collaborative and resourceful. All skills we will need to use to be the future leaders this state needs. We got the opportunity to solve problems on the fly and have intentional conversations to reach solutions. And most importantly, we started building our MDLF Class V community. A community that will be the foundation for the work that we do together over the next few years. A community that I am honored to be a part of.