The following are quotes from past Silicon Valley Next Fellows about their experience in the program:
“Very rarely are we given space, time, and guidance for reflection. The real magic was the space and the relationships that allowed us to learn in community. All of us feel constant pressure at work to produce, which leaves little time to step back, develop ourselves, and take a higher perspective on our work. That space was incredibly powerful.”
“What really sets SVN apart is the people and the coaching. Brad’s coaching pushed me to think bigger and lead more authentically, it was honest, deep, and exactly what I needed. It wasn’t just networking, it felt like finding a community of people who really get it and want to see each other grow & support each other.”
“I think the materials were structured, pedagogically, in a really productive way. Everything we learned was an interactive tool of discernment–not a lecture on the ‘right’ way to do things, but a series of tools to discern our individual justifications for how we might decide to do things in the context of our own work. Curtis did a great job developing a curriculum that we could really put into practice.”
“Not sure what magic goes into the fellow selection process, but I also felt deeply connected to every person who was in the cohort. No one was judgmental, social climbing, standoffish, or competitive. It felt like we were all really there to learn from each other and try to build something.”
“I think that the strengths of SVN are in the relationships that are formed within the cohorts. I’m very happy to say that the fellows, instructors, and mentors were all amazing people who were insightful, supportive, and caring. I also think that SVN is effective at pushing participants beyond their comfort zones, while still feeling like a safe space to explore and make mistakes. The lessons that were most helpful were those around management.”
“What makes SVN so unique is the ability to create a safe-space for BIPOC leaders to meet, and together create a space for vulnerability and growth. This was immediately recognizable after our first meeting where we shared our heritage with each other instead of cold-openers or other ice breakers. The fellowship had well thought-out exercises for each training which helped build confidence in my participation and learnings. The Google Docs are ones that I will retain and look back on for referencing.”
“I think the greatest strengths of SVN are the opportunities for deep self-reflection and relationship building. The work is intensive on self-reflection, and it made me proud of who I am and where I come from. I realized that my story and my roots are not just part of me, they are what make me unique and the greatest tool in my arsenal. Coming from the community I serve is a strength I now carry with pride. Just as important, the program reminded me that I am not alone in this space. Having a cohort of trusted peers, people I can go to for advice, encouragement, or simply understanding, has been invaluable, and those relationships will last well beyond the program.”