Yolanda Sanders Takes Charge as the First CEO of Journey To Lead on Their Fifth Anniversary

Journey To Lead Appoints Yolanda Sanders as First CEO

As Journey To Lead (JOURNEY) celebrates its fifth anniversary, this impactful nonprofit organization has announced a historic leadership transition by appointing Yolanda Sanders as its first Chief Executive Officer. This bold move signifies a commitment to empowering women leaders, reflecting the organization's mission to elevate more women to decision-making roles within the private sector.

Yolanda Sanders is not a new face at JOURNEY; she is a proud alumna of its inaugural Fellowship class and has previously served as the Senior Vice President and General Counsel at Gap Inc. Her extensive career, marked by her advocacy for women’s empowerment, positions her as an exemplary leader who embodies the values that JOURNEY promotes. During her time at Gap Inc., she demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a dedication to fostering inclusive workplace environments.

The announcement was made during a significant event where JOURNEY board Chair, James "Chip" DiPaula, expressed the board's admiration for Yolanda's global executive experience and her unwavering commitment to the organization's vision. DiPaula stated, “Yolanda stands as a powerful example of the extraordinary emerging leaders that JOURNEY equips to scale.”

Yolanda expressed her gratitude and excitement as she prepares to take on her new role. "JOURNEY changed my life," she remarked, emphasizing the network of powerful women leaders she experienced as a Fellow. "To have the opportunity to serve as CEO is both deeply personal and a tremendous honor." Her commitment to women's leadership is integral to her vision for JOURNEY, as she aims to build on the organization's foundation and strengthen its impact.

In her new role, Yolanda will lead a growing nonprofit that includes over 200 mission-driven leaders, consisting of Champions (established women leaders), Members (graduates of JOURNEY’s Fellowship), and Fellows, who are among the top-tier rising executives addressing critical global challenges, such as healthcare, climate change, and security. She aims to expand JOURNEY's reach and help nurture hundreds more rising leaders who will reshape the future.

"We founded JOURNEY in July 2021 on a fundamental belief that access, connections, and hands-on leadership coaching are key to getting more women into top decision-making roles," noted Pattie Sellers, Co-President of JOURNEY. This sentiment resonates deeply today, as the need for women in leadership has never been more critical.

Co-President Nina Easton highlighted the organization’s measurable success, which includes promotions among its Fellows, capital raised, and significant business growth rooted in being part of the JOURNEY network. She lauded Yolanda’s vision and capabilities, indicating they would be instrumental in scaling the organization’s reach.

Reflecting on her upbringing, Yolanda shared her journey, stating she grew up in Altadena, California, as the youngest of twelve children. Her educational journey led her to the University of California, Berkeley, and UC Law in San Francisco. Her career has continually focused on creating pathways for those who come after her, reinforcing her dedication to uplifting others.

As JOURNEY embarks on its next chapter under Yolanda's leadership, the future looks bright. The organization aims to equip women leaders with the skills, resources, and community support needed to succeed in top decision-making roles.

With a strong commitment to advocacy, empowerment, and a vision for success, Yolanda Sanders is poised to guide JOURNEY toward new heights, inspiring a new generation of women leaders to make their mark in the world.

ABOUT JOURNEY

Journey To Lead (JOURNEY) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit leadership organization dedicated to equipping exceptional women leaders with the tools they need to scale their skills, businesses, and impact. With the mission of driving more women to the top of the private sector, JOURNEY fosters a lifelong community committed to reshaping the future of leadership.