Rogers-Lowell Area News

Emerging Leaders Embracing Region's Diversity, Inclusion

Economic Impact Equals Cultural Impact
Northwest Arkansas is growing quickly and its culture evolving just as fast. The region’s ethnic and racial diversity will continue its steady increase over the next five years according to the Northwest Arkansas Council, demonstrating that the region must embrace long-term transition to continue its stellar economic performance. The Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders are taking action now.

Ross Phillips, Director of Community Development at the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, pointed out that economic opportunity and a low cost of living are attracting a younger and increasingly more diverse population. Phillips, who leads the Chamber's leadership programs, added, "Having a diverse culture enriches everyday quality of life, that's why our new Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders program is embracing these challenges of diversity and inclusion, and taking steps to integrate everyone into the social fabric of Northwest Arkansas."

A New Program Highlighting NWA Culture and Diversity
Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders will introduce the first in a series of quarterly “Kitchen Takeovers” on Sunday, March 4 at MOD Restaurant & Social in Bentonville. The first quarter event will benefit Canopy Northwest Arkansas, a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization started by Northwest Arkansas residents who are working to create a place of refuge for people fleeing persecution due to race, membership in a particular social group, political opinion, religion, or national origin.

Phillips described the new quarterly series program from the Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders as one that highlights the culture and diversity in our region. "We want to be known as a place that accepts people for who they are and embraces their culture. No one should ever be ashamed of who they are and where they come from," he said.

The first quarter series treats attendees to a three-course Congolese meal, complete with wine pairings and signature cocktails, interwoven with the stories of refugees around the world and those resettled here through the work of Canopy Northwest Arkansas. Tickets to the event are $55 for individuals and $90 for couples.

Contact Phillips by emailing ross@rogerslowell.com for more information.