Mission Updates: Youth Leadership in Action: Ukraine Meets Minnesota
In Case You Missed It: July Newsletter
Message from HueLife Team:
Inspiring Growth & Change
Growth requires a mix of getting uncomfortable and quiet desperation. Discovery rarely feels safe as it stretches us, prunes us, and sometimes hurts. Yet, in that discomfort lies the possibility of transformation. As Richard shared in his recent reflection, staying only in places of comfort leads to atrophy, while choosing movement invites us to create a stronger self.
As we move into this “back-to-school” season, we are reminded that learning is not just for classrooms. At HueLife, we believe in lifelong learning where we are embracing new challenges, expanding perspectives, and cultivating skills that help us create meaningful change. We invite you to lean into this season of growth with us; explore new ways of engaging communities, discover fresh approaches to leadership, and stay curious about what learning can unlock in your work and life.
What if you had a tool that could transform any learning experience?
Even a simple energizer can be turned into a deep reflection and learning moment.
That’s exactly what HUE Conversations are designed to do. Built on the foundation of participatory methods, these conversations help groups pause, reflect, and generate actionable insights that strengthen collaboration and deepen connection.
Natalia Etten is leading change in Ukraine through education. As CEO of Teaching for Ukraine, she works to bring high-quality teachers to underserved schools, creating opportunities for thousands of young people despite the challenges of war.
Natalia’s journey is deeply connected to HueLife’s training and her involvement in YouLEAD. She reflects that ToP Facilitation tools gave her practical frameworks to lead teams through uncertainty, foster dialogue, and mobilize communities for action. Her story is a reminder that learning is not just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about applying it to transform lives.
“Learning is powerful because it allows us to hold hope while creating practical steps forward, even in the hardest circumstances.” – Natalia Etten
We’re excited to announce that HueLife will once again offer Free Pro-Bono Action Planning Sessions for nonprofit and community organizations in the Twin Cities!
This half-day participatory session is designed to help 4 selected nonprofits create a practical action plan, mobilize their teams, and generate renewed energy for their mission.
Youth Leadership in Action: Ukraine Meets Minnesota
We were delighted to welcome 18 young adults to Minnesota from Ukraine on August 13. Their long journey out of the war to Minnesota concluded with a crowd of host families at the airport to greet them and take them in for their 5-week leadership odyssey. The teens from Ukraine were selected from 283 applicants from across the Country. The group toured the Minnesota Capital with a member of the Governor’s staff, met with elected officials from counties and cities, and staff. They also met with Police, Fire, and city planners. This week they are busy with visiting non-profits and learning how they are managed and experiencing consensus workshops! Over the final two weeks, the team will visit business and schools. They have been true ambassadors of Ukraine, sharing their stories and leaning into their leadership journeys. Everyone who has presented or engaged with this group has been transformed. Our team at HueLife is humbled to be part of this endeavor and surrounded by hope.
In Case You Missed It
Have you seen what's new with HueLife?
Message from HueLife Team: A Masterclass in Resilience
Featured & Upcoming Programs: Transformational Leadership Retreats & "Back to School" Programs
Pro Tip: From Reacting to Responding: Using Lumina Emotion to Strengthen Your Leadership Resilience
People Making a Difference - Living Legacies: Honoring the Resilience of Linda Alton and Melvin Giles
