THE LEGACY OF JAMES KANADA
James Kanada, the “First Black Frontiersman,” escaped slavery in Mississippi and settled in Detroit. In 1865, Kanada formed a settlement near what is now Puritan Avenue and was the lone black frontiersman in the area. Though he faced discrimination and sabotage from his neighbors, Kanada persevered and grew his farm from 15 acres to 25 acres by 1880. Kanada maintained his farm until his death from tuberculosis in 1885.
The Kanada Fellowship celebrates the legacy of James Kanada--a pioneer--and lifts up the resiliency, tenacity, innovation, and leadership capacity that he exemplified throughout his lifetime. This same spirit can be found in those who continue to be marginalized today through evolved systems.
ABOUT THE FELLOWSHIP
VISION
We believe in the power of grassroots leadership but know that too often these brilliant leaders do not get a seat at the table. Through the power of development, support, and affirmation, we aim to create a more equitable and community-representative pool of talent by investing in the growth of historically marginalized leaders. The Kanada Fellowship identifies industry and community leaders and provides them with the tools to scale equitable change for our communities.
MISSION
The Kanada Fellowship empowers professionals from Metro Detroit to become strategic leaders at work and in their communities by providing them with the tools needed to enact even greater change.
Through a nine-month initial fellowship experience, participants gain development and support that helps them envision, chart out, and act on their next level of service, leadership, and impact. In addition, fellows are affirmed through connections with other grassroots leaders who are serving, leading, and thriving - locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.
2024 KANADA FELLOWS
Learn about our past fellows
For additional questions and inquiries about the Kanada Fellowship, please contact kanada@strategiccommunitypartners.org
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