Celebrating Leadership: Journey Co-Presidents Honored as 2026 Women of Power

Nina Easton and Pattie Sellers, the dynamic duo behind the non-profit leadership organization Journey To Lead, were recently celebrated as the 2026 Women of Power at the National Urban League (NUL) conference in Nashville. This significant accolade recognizes their relentless dedication to empowering women leaders and fostering a more equitable environment in various fields including business, public service, and education.

A Testament to Leadership and Vision

The Women of Power Awards highlight the achievements of women whose efforts have dramatically transformed communities across different sectors. Easton and Sellers, both incredibly notable figures, have made it their mission through JOURNEY to provide the necessary tools and support for emerging female leaders. When addressing the audience of 1,500 at the awards luncheon, Easton expressed her gratitude: "We are deeply honored. Expanding opportunity for future generations is at the core of the NUL's mission, and it highly resonates with our objectives at JOURNEY."

The ceremony, which took place on July 30, not only honored Easton and Sellers but also recognized other influential women, such as Racquel Oden of HSBC, actress Kym Whitley, and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones. Their collective recognition underscores a commitment to advocacy and change in society, promoting a future where more women can achieve leadership positions.

The Journey of Empowerment

Since the inception of JOURNEY in 2021, Easton and Sellers have worked tirelessly to create a platform that offers access, mentorship, and hands-on coaching tailored for aspiring women leaders. The organization currently boasts a network of over 200 leaders and focuses on enhancing women's leadership roles in pivotal areas like technology, healthcare, education, and global security.

Sellers, known for her previous role as a Managing Editor at Fortune, pointed out the progress the organization is striving to achieve: "With only about 10% of Fortune 500 companies led by women, our work is far from over. We want to make sure that women who are dedicated to lifting others also find their way into top leadership positions."

The Importance of Representation

This recognition comes at a vital juncture when the need for diverse leadership is more crucial than ever. The conversations around women in power have evolved, and while strides have been made, Easton and Sellers represent a clarion call for continued progress. Their belief that access to opportunities is essential for success is poignant in today’s socio-economic landscape.

The NUL stands as a beacon of inspiration, advocating for economic mobility and equity. The synergy between its mission and that of JOURNEY is clear. Both organizations lead by example, demonstrating the importance of community and connectivity in uplifting future generations of women leaders.

Looking Forward

As JOURNEY continues to evolve, Easton and Sellers remain committed to realizing their vision of a world where women leaders are not the exception, but the rule. Each award and recognition serves as a stepping stone toward a significant cultural shift, where gender parity becomes a standard practice in leadership across all sectors.

Their leadership journey is one not only marked by personal achievements but by a unified objective to champion the next generation of women leaders. With a renewed focus on mentorship, collaboration, and community support, JOURNEY is set to play a pivotal role in transforming the landscape of leadership for women everywhere.

Conclusion

Nina Easton and Pattie Sellers’ achievements as the 2026 Women of Power reflect not just their individual contributions but also a broader movement towards equitable representation in leadership. As they continue to inspire change, their legacy promises to pave the way for women leaders now and for generations to come.