Desis Lead Mentorship Program

The 2025 Spring Cohort Application is now open!

Historically, South Asian Americans have been critically underrepresented in the halls of government at every level, from local to federal offices. In the past seven years since Impact’s founding in 2016, those numbers have skyrocketed thanks to incredible trailblazers who continue to make history across the country. Although representation has increased, we still have a ways to go to make sure our voices are heard.

After welcoming our inaugural class of Desis Lead members in fall of 2023, we have had 3 more successful cohorts that have led to a number of campaigns and newly elected officials across the country. This year we are excited to offer a brand-new Spring Intensive Desis Lead program, where a smaller group of individuals can dive deeper into the Desi experience of running for office together. The 12-week (10 session) Desis Lead Spring Intensive will feature a cohort experience with weekly community-building sessions, workshops, trainings, group discussions, mentor meetings with South Asian elected officials, and virtual programs. Cohort members will meet Tuesday evenings once a week starting April 1st with the program scheduled to end on June 17th.

Apply below! Deadline for application is Friday March 14th.