Arubana Founder Leeza Charles Selected for Prestigious YLAI Fellowship Program

Leeza Charles, Arubana Founder

We are beyond excited to announce that our very own Leeza Charles, founder of Arubana Retreat, has been selected as a participant in the 2025 Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship Program! Out of nearly 3,000 applicants from across the Western Hemisphere, Leeza was chosen as one of only 275 emerging leaders, making this an incredible achievement.

This year also marks a significant milestone as YLAI celebrates its 10-year anniversary, making Leeza’s participation even more special. The fellowship, which kicks off with a virtual program in December 2024 followed by an in-person opening in Houston, Texas. The program will include an intensive leadership development course and culminate in a 4-week placement with a host organization in the U.S., providing an invaluable opportunity for collaboration and learning. The program will conclude with a Closing Forum in Washington, D.C., in June 2025.

Leeza’s selection underscores her outstanding commitment to innovation, sustainability, and social impact, and we look forward to seeing how her participation in this prestigious program will bring new insights to Arubana Retreat.

Special thanks to the U.S. Embassy Barbados for nominating Leeza for this incredible opportunity and their continued support in all our endeavors.

Stay tuned as we continue to follow her exciting journey!