18 Best Leadership Communities To Join In 2024
Life can be lonely at the top of any organization. Sometimes you need to find a bond with other people who are having the same experience as you. For modern business leaders, one of the ways to find these connections is through leadership communities.
These are typically billed as a great way to network, and that's true. But they can also be a great source of connection on a human level as well as way for leaders to find a mentor, and learn from other people navigating the same challenges.
For any leader or professional looking to stay ahead of the curve or pick up a new tactic for better leadership, here are some great leadership communities to join.
Best Leadership Communities Shortlist
Here’s a shortlist of the best leadership communities I think are worth joining in 2024:
- YPO — For global networking among young chief executives
- EO (Entrepreneurs Organization) — For peer-to-peer learning among entrepreneurs
- Vistage — For executive coaching and leadership development
- TED — For inspirational talks and innovative ideas
- Lean In — For women's empowerment and leadership
- John Maxwell Team — For leadership training and personal development
- The Forum of Young Global Leaders — For shaping young leaders to impact the world
- Rotary International — For community service and leadership
- Chief Executive Network — For CEO peer networking
- Academy of Management — For advancing management and leadership knowledge
- Leadership Now — For building better leaders through articles and resources
- Association for Talent Development — For developing workplace learning and leadership skills
- American Management Association — For skills development and leadership training
- 100 Coaches Agency — For elite coaching in leadership from top global coaches
- Women in Leadership League — For empowering women leaders through community and support
- Latinos Lead — For cultivating leadership within the Latino community
- The Executive Leadership Council — For the development of global Black leaders
- The Leadership Circle — For leadership assessment and development
Find more details about each community below.
The 19 Best Leadership Communities
1. YPO — For global networking among young chief executives
The YPO (Young Presidents' Organization) is a global community that connects young chief executives through exclusive networking opportunities, leadership education, and personalized mentorship.
- Audience: Young chief executives and business leaders under 45
- Size: 35,000+ members
- Membership Cost: Varies by chapter
- Platform: Regional and global in-person events
Why Join:
The YPO organization offers unparalleled access to a global network of peers, providing young chief executives with a unique platform for leadership growth and personal development. Focusing on peer-to-peer learning and shared experiences, YPO members benefit from the collective wisdom of a diverse and influential group.
2. EO (Entrepreneurs Organization) — For peer-to-peer learning among entrepreneurs
The Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) is a global leadership community of entrepreneurs focused on helping each other grow through shared experiences, learning opportunities, and peer-to-peer support.
- Audience: Entrepreneurs and founders of businesses with significant revenue
- Size: 18,000+ members
- Membership Cost: Varies by chapter
- Platform: Online and in-person, with chapter events and global conferences
Why Join:
The EO Network is designed to support entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey, providing valuable peer-to-peer connections that foster personal and professional growth among community leaders and community members.
EO members gain access to a wealth of shared knowledge, mentorship programs, and exclusive events tailored to the unique challenges of running a business, all while working towards a common goal of positive change. EO's global reach and focus on entrepreneurial excellence make it a standout resource for those looking to scale their businesses with a common goal in mind.
3. Vistage — For executive coaching and leadership development
Vistage is a global executive coaching organization that provides leadership development, business insights, and peer advisory groups, fostering partnerships that enhance the decision-making process and support the growth of future leaders.
- Audience: CEOs, business owners, and senior executives
- Size: 45,000+ members
- Membership Cost: $1,300 monthly + $2,500 upfront
- Platform: CEO conferences and executive summits
Why Join:
Vistage offers a structured and supportive environment where senior executives can hone their leadership skills through professional coaching and peer advisory groups.
Vistage members regularly participate in confidential group meetings where they tackle business challenges, exchange ideas, and receive expert guidance.
4. TED — For inspirational talks and innovative ideas
TED is a global community dedicated to spreading innovative ideas through short, powerful talks on a wide range of topics, from technology and science to culture and social issues.
- Audience: Thought leaders, innovators, creatives, and lifelong learners
- Membership Cost: Contributions vary from $50, $75, and $100 yearly
- Platform: Podcasts, live TED conferences, and a membership program
Why Join:
The TED community provides a platform for individuals passionate about ideas worth spreading, offering access to a vast library of thought-provoking talks that inspire and educate. By joining TED, you connect with a global network of forward-thinking individuals and gain exposure to cutting-edge ideas and trends across various fields.
5. Lean In — For women's empowerment and leadership
Lean In is a global community founded by Sheryl Sandberg, focused on empowering women to achieve their ambitions and fostering gender equality in the workplace, while addressing leadership challenges and building a successful community of support and inspiration.
- Audience: Women professionals, leaders, and advocates for gender equality
- Size: 100,000+ members
- Membership Cost: Free
- Platform: Local circles, virtual meet-ups, and leader training
Why Join:
Lean In is a powerful network for women who aspire to advance their careers and break down barriers in the workplace. By participating in Lean In Circles, women receive peer support, mentorship, and access to resources designed to empower them professionally and personally.
Given the ongoing conversations around gender equality and the importance of diverse leadership, Lean In offers a supportive space where women can share experiences, gain confidence, and take actionable steps toward achieving their goals.
6. John Maxwell Team — For leadership training and personal development
The John Maxwell Team is a global community offering leadership training, coaching, and personal development programs based on the principles of leadership expert John C. Maxwell.
- Audience: Legal professionals, creatives, youth leaders, and more
- Size: 40,000+ members
- Membership Cost: Varies depending on the program; certification programs are higher in cost
- Platform: Online courses, in-person events, and a global community of certified coaches
Why Join:
The John Maxwell Team is a go-to resource for those looking to develop their leadership skills and make a lasting impact on others. Through comprehensive training programs, members receive hands-on coaching, access to exclusive content, and opportunities to become certified as Maxwell Leadership Coaches.
7. The Forum of Young Global Leaders — For shaping young leaders to impact the world
The Young Global Leaders (YGL) community, part of the World Economic Forum, is a group of exceptional young leaders from around the world who are committed to addressing global challenges and making a positive impact.
- Audience: Young leaders under 40 from various sectors, including business, politics, academia, and civil society
- Size: 1,400+ members
- Membership Cost:
- Premium - €30 per month
- Pro - €90 per month
- Platform: Global forums, regional meetings, online resources, and collaborative projects
Why Join:
The Forum of Young Global Leaders is an unparalleled platform for young leaders who are passionate about driving change on a global scale. As a member, you gain access to a diverse and influential network of peers, as well as opportunities to engage with world leaders and participate in high-impact initiatives.
YGL offers a unique environment where young leaders can grow, learn, and make a significant difference on the world stage.
8. Rotary International — For community service and leadership
Rotary International is a global organization that brings together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian services, promote goodwill, and foster leadership skills.
- Audience: Business and professional leaders committed to community service and leadership development
- Size: 1.2 million+ members
- Membership Cost: Invitation-only
- Platform: In-person club meetings, service projects, online resources, and international events
Why Join:
Rotary International offers a unique opportunity for leaders who are passionate about making a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Through a network of local clubs, members engage in meaningful service projects, build lasting relationships, and develop their leadership skills in a supportive environment.
As leadership is increasingly tied to social responsibility, Rotary provides a platform for leaders to contribute to global change while growing personally and professionally.
9. Chief Executive Network — For CEO peer networking
Chief Executive Network (CEN) is an exclusive peer networking organization for CEOs, designed to help them connect with non-competing leaders in similar industries and business contexts to exchange ideas, strategies, and best practices for business growth.
- Audience: CEOs and senior executives from various industries
- Size: 700+ members
- Membership Cost: Typically around $7,000 to $10,000 annually
- Platform: Conferences, quarterly briefings, and online workshops and masterclasses
Why Join:
The Chief Executive Network is an invaluable resource for CEOs looking to enhance their leadership and decision-making by tapping into the experience of their peers.
CEN's industry-specific, professionally facilitated groups allow members to gain insights into the challenges and opportunities unique to their sector, helping them avoid costly mistakes and make more informed decisions.
10. Academy of Management — For advancing management and leadership knowledge
The Academy of Management (AOM) is a professional association dedicated to advancing the understanding of management and leadership through research, education, and practice.
- Audience: Academics, researchers, and professionals in business and leadership
- Size: 18,000+ members
- Membership Cost:
- Emeritus - $106 annually
- Student - $106 annually
- Executive - $214 annually
- Academic - $214 annually
- Platform: Conferences, online and in-person workshops, and networking events
Why Join:
Through its extensive network of scholars and professionals, AOM members gain access to cutting-edge research, educational resources, and opportunities for professional development.
AOM provides a platform for members to stay at the forefront of management and leadership practices, making it a crucial community for anyone committed to advancing their expertise.
11. Leadership Now — For building better leaders through articles and resources
Leadership Now is an online platform that offers articles, resources, and tools aimed at helping individuals develop their leadership skills and become more effective leaders.
- Audience: Aspiring and established leaders seeking to improve their leadership capabilities
- Membership Cost: Free
- Platform: Podcasts, newsletters, and blog resources
Why Join:
The Leadership Now platform offers a wealth of content and tools designed to address the challenges leaders face. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out, Leadership Now provides practical insights and strategies to help you grow as a leader, making it an ideal companion for those committed to personal and professional development.
12. Association for Talent Development — For developing workplace learning and leadership skills
The Association for Talent Development (ATD) is a global organization that focuses on the development of workplace learning, performance, and leadership skills through education, events, and resources.
- Audience: Learning and development professionals, trainers, HR professionals, and leaders focused on employee development
- Membership Cost:
- Professional - $249 annually
- Professional Plus - $399 annually
- Membership Bundle - $1,144 annually
- Platform: Webinars, in-person conferences, and certification programs
Why Join:
By joining ATD, members gain access to a global network of peers, cutting-edge research, and practical tools that help them implement effective learning strategies in their organizations.
With the demand for upskilling and leadership development growing, ATD offers resources that ensure members stay ahead of trends and can lead successful talent development initiatives.
13. American Management Association — For skills development and leadership training
The American Management Association (AMA) is a professional organization that offers training and resources focused on improving leadership, management, and business skills.
- Audience: Business professionals, managers, and leaders seeking to enhance their skills and effectiveness
- Size: 10 million+ learners
- Membership Cost:
- e-Membership - Free
- Student e-Membership - Free
- Individual - $239 annually
- Corporate - $2,495 annually
- Platform: In-person and virtual courses, seminars, webinars, and e-Learning libraries
Why Join:
With a focus on practical skills that can be immediately applied in the workplace, AMA's programs are designed to equip members with the tools they need to advance their careers and make a significant impact in their organizations.
14. 100 Coaches Agency — For elite coaching in leadership from top global coaches
100 Coaches is an exclusive network founded by leadership expert Marshall Goldsmith, bringing together the world’s top coaches to provide elite-level leadership coaching and mentorship to executives and leaders worldwide.
- Audience: Senior leaders, executives, and high-potential individuals seeking world-class coaching
- Size: A select group of 100 top coaches with clients from leading organizations worldwide
- Membership Cost: Invitation only; costs vary depending on the coaching arrangement
- Platform: One-on-one coaching sessions, workshops, and exclusive events
Why Join:
The 100 Coaches Agency stands out as a prestigious network offering unparalleled access to some of the world’s most renowned leadership coaches.
Joining this community means receiving tailored guidance and mentorship from experts who have shaped the success of top leaders globally. 100 Coaches provides the elite support to navigate challenges and achieve exceptional results.
15. Women in Leadership League — For empowering women leaders through community and support
The Women in Leadership League (WILL) is a community dedicated to empowering women leaders by providing support, networking opportunities, and resources that help them thrive in their careers.
- Audience: Women in leadership roles, aspiring leaders, and professionals committed to gender equality
- Size: 5,000+ members
- Membership Cost:
- The Learning Lab - $12 monthly
- The Collective - $35 monthly
- Platform: Web-based community, in-person events, workshops, and mentorship programs
Why Join:
The Women in Leadership League offers members access to a network of like-minded professionals, opportunities for personal growth, and resources that address the unique challenges women face in leadership roles.
The community provides the tools and support needed to help women leaders succeed and make a meaningful impact in their fields.
16. Latinos Lead — For cultivating leadership within the Latino community
Latinos Lead is an organization focused on advancing Latino leadership in nonprofit governance and executive roles, providing resources and training to increase representation in leadership positions.
- Audience: Latino professionals, emerging leaders, and those in nonprofit governance
- Size: 800+ members
- Membership Cost: Free membership with optional paid workshops and events
- Platform: Webinars, workshops, and leadership development programs
Why Join:
Latinos Lead offers a unique platform dedicated to empowering Latino professionals to take on leadership roles, particularly within the nonprofit sector.
The organization provides tailored training and resources designed to address the specific challenges faced by Latino leaders and ensures that Latino voices are represented at the highest levels of decision-making.
17. The Executive Leadership Council — For the development of global Black leaders
The Executive Leadership Council (ELC) is an organization dedicated to increasing the number of successful Black executives in global enterprises by providing leadership development and networking opportunities.
- Audience: Black executives, senior leaders, and aspiring executives
- Membership Cost: Invitation-only
- Platform: Leadership development programs, networking events, and mentorship opportunities
Why Join:
The Executive Leadership Council is a premier network for Black executives seeking to enhance their leadership skills and expand their influence within global enterprises.
ELC provides members with exclusive access to a powerful network of peers, cutting-edge leadership development programs, and opportunities to drive meaningful change within their organizations and communities.
18. The Leadership Circle — For leadership assessment and development
The Leadership Circle is a leadership development organization offering comprehensive assessments and programs designed to enhance leadership effectiveness and drive organizational change.
- Audience: Senior leaders, executives, and leadership development professionals
- Membership Cost: Varies based on assessment and program participation
- Platform: In-person workshops and events, coaching, and certification programs
Why Join:
By offering sophisticated assessment tools and development programs, the Leadership Circle helps leaders gain insight into their strengths and areas for growth. Its tools and programs provide a clear path to becoming a more effective and conscious leader, driving both personal and organizational success.
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