Week 5 - Leadership
This week, we’re diving into what it really means to lead.
Leadership isn’t just about being in charge—it’s about showing up with purpose. It’s about taking responsibility, sparking momentum, and helping others grow right alongside you.
You don’t need a fancy title to be a leader.
You just need intention.
Whether you’re guiding a project, stepping up when no one else does, or hyping your teammate after a rough day—that’s leadership.
This week is about finding your voice, owning your impact, and choosing to lead with courage, not ego. Let’s get into it.
ImBlaze Check-in
Song Of The Week
This week’s theme is Leadership, and Motiv8 is all about staying focused, blocking out the noise, and chasing your goals—no matter what.
Being a leader doesn’t mean you have all the answers. It means you keep showing up, even when it’s hard. You keep your energy up. You keep going.
This song is your reminder to stay locked in and lead by example. Let it hype you up while you push through the week.
Let’s get it. 💪
Monday
Professional Development
Ewing Marion Kauffman School High school
6401 The Paseo, Kansas City, MO 64131
Morning Session
8 AM Check-in Begins
8 AM–12 PM
Afternoon Session
1 PM Check-in Begins
1 PM–5 PM
🎤 ASK A PROFESSIONAL
his week’s theme is Leadership—and we couldn’t think of a better person to learn from than Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace.
She’s a powerhouse leader who’s held big roles in government, higher education, and now philanthropy. Her journey challenges the idea that leadership looks just one way—and invites us to think about how service, courage, and community can shape a leader’s path.
Meet Dr. Burns-Wallace
Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace is the President and CEO of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, a national organization that works to expand access to education, careers, and opportunities—no matter your race, gender, or zip code.
She’s spent her career working across government, education, and philanthropy, always focused on one big goal: helping more people achieve success and economic mobility. When she joined the Foundation, she made sure to listen to the Kansas City community first—helping shape the Foundation’s work around what people actually need. Today, her leadership helps drive programs focused on college access, career development, and entrepreneurship.
Before this role, Dr. Burns-Wallace made history as the first African American woman to serve as both Secretary of Administration and Chief Information Technology Officer for the State of Kansas.
Earlier in her career, she worked in higher education—supporting students at places like the University of Kansas, the University of Missouri, and Stanford University. But her journey started as a diplomat for the U.S. State Department, representing the country in China, South Africa, and Washington, D.C.
Dr. Burns-Wallace believes deeply in giving back. She serves on several boards, including the College Board and the Council on Foreign Relations, one of the highest honors in public service and global affairs.
She’s traveled the world—but Kansas City is home. It’s where she grew up, and it’s the community that continues to shape the way she leads.
Her favorite title of all? Mom to her son, Xavier.
Connect with Dr. D
Week 5 Breakout Sessions
Leadership Up Close Panel (AM)
Meet Luis Maes
Vice President of Community Impact – Kansas City Royals
Luis Maes is proof that leadership can make a huge impact—on and off the field.
As the Vice President of Community Impact for the Kansas City Royals, Luis oversees everything from the Royals Foundation to the Urban Youth Academy and even the Royals Hall of Fame. His mission? Use the power of baseball to uplift people and strengthen the KC community.
Before stepping up to the plate with the Royals, Luis worked with some of the biggest brands in the world. At Electronic Arts (EA), he led global social impact efforts. Before that, he helped launch a groundbreaking team at Nike, using billions in corporate resources to drive community change, support equity, and champion sustainability.
He’s also brought leadership and strategy to Walmart, the government, and the nonprofit world—all while staying focused on making real, lasting change for communities.
Oh, and in case you were wondering—he’s got degrees from UVA, Harvard, and Duke. No big deal.
Get ready to hear from a leader who’s turning passion into purpose—and helping others rise with him every step of the way.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luis-maes-0050585/
Mark Launiu
Co-Founder – MADE MOBB
Mark Launiu is a Kansas City-based entrepreneur and community leader, best known as the co-founder of MADE MOBB—a streetwear brand that blends bold fashion with civic pride and cultural representation.
Born in American Samoa and raised in South Kansas City, Mark’s journey from immigrant roots to business owner is a powerful example of how staying true to who you are can lead to real impact. What started as a passion project has grown into one of KC’s most recognizable brands, known for its authentic designs and deep ties to the city’s culture.
MADE MOBB has teamed up with major names like the Kansas City Chiefs, KC Current, QuickTrip, and Red Bull—but Mark’s work doesn’t stop at fashion.
He’s also committed to community development. He leads events like the Kritiq Fashion Show to spotlight minority designers and models, and he hosts real estate workshops to help underserved communities build wealth and financial literacy.
Mark’s leadership brings together creativity, business strategy, and a deep love for his city—shaping the future of KC’s creative and entrepreneurial scene.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mademobb/?hl=en
Leading the Future of Work
with Spencer Wallace, Founder of Around the Table
What makes a great leader in today’s world? It’s not just about titles, being the boss, or having it all figured out.
In this breakout session, Spencer Wallace will help you explore what real leadership looks like—especially in a world that’s changing fast. You’ll challenge common myths, break down the qualities that truly matter, and walk away with tools to better understand yourself and lead with confidence.
Spencer brings experience from business, education, and community leadership—and he’s passionate about helping people find joy, purpose, and their voice in the world of work.
If you're ready to think differently about leadership and grow your impact, this session is for you.
Leadership Up Close Panel (PM)
DePrice Taylor “DP”
Executive Director of Community Relations – Kansas City Current
DePrice Taylor is a leader who knows how to get things done—and bring people together while doing it.
As the Executive Director of Community Relations for the Kansas City Current (KC’s pro women’s soccer team), DePrice leads everything from community partnerships to player engagement. Her goal? Create real opportunities that help Kansas City communities grow and thrive.
But her path to leadership wasn’t easy. Born and raised in Detroit, she faced roadblocks—but never let them stop her. Instead, she used them as fuel to build a career focused on service, impact, and believing in what’s possible.
Before joining the KC Current, DePrice got her start at the Boys & Girls Clubs, and she’s been empowering others ever since. She’s a first-generation college grad with degrees in Social Work and Sports Management, and she also dominated on the basketball court as a team captain and 1st Team All-MIAA player at Pittsburg State.
She’s been recognized as a NextGen Leader, a Community Builder to Watch, and a Most Valuable Partner—and she’s just getting started.
Meet Nancy Phelps
Vice President & Community Impact Director – JE Dunn Construction
Nancy Phelps is a leader who knows how to build more than buildings—she builds community.
As VP of Community Impact at JE Dunn Construction, Nancy leads the company’s giving, volunteering, and employee engagement efforts in 26 cities across the country. She also manages the Dunn Family Foundation, working closely with the family behind the company to support causes that matter.
Before joining JE Dunn, Nancy spent nearly 20 years working in both nonprofit and corporate leadership roles—from the streets of St. Louis to the heart of Kansas City. She’s worked with major organizations like the KC Chamber, where she helped develop business strategies and led top-tier partnerships.
She’s got an MBA, a background in journalism and communications, and a resume full of boss moves—including leading roles with Kansas City Public Schools, the Royals Foundation, and the American Cancer Society. She’s also a KC Chamber Centurions Leadership Program graduate and was named one of Ingram’s 40 Under 40.
Whether she’s raising money, launching new programs, or empowering the next generation, Nancy leads with heart, strategy, and deep KC pride.
TJ Roberts, Kinship Cafe
Founder & CEO Kinship Cafe
TJ Roberts might just be the most dope, 7-fingered, adopted, biracial entrepreneur you’ll ever meet—and he’s got a story that proves leadership is about heart, hustle, and staying true to who you are.
Born in Kansas City and raised in Wamego, KS (aka “FarmVille – middle of nowhere”), TJ became the first African-American male to graduate from Rock Creek High School. His journey took him from small-town fields to the football field, walking on at Kansas State University and earning his degree in 2014.
After nearly a decade running his own insurance agency, TJ made a bold move—going “Full Send” on his dream. In 2021, he launched Kinship Café, KC’s first Black-owned Roasterie and coffee shop, building a space centered around culture, connection, and community.
TJ’s leadership is all about showing up authentically, building something bigger than yourself, and creating space for others to thrive.
Week 5 Resources
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Leadership (lead·er·ship) is about sparking change, not just giving orders.
It means stepping up, owning your impact, and lifting others as you rise.
A leader doesn’t need a title, they just need intention. Whether you're running a project or hyping your teammate after a rough day, you're leading.
Why is it important?
Leadership as an intern shows the world (and yourself) what you’re capable of. Start where you are. Lead how you live.
Leadership isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your version of it matters. Live your values out loud—others will follow your example.
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Be Present, Be Engaged
Show up on time & ready to participate — your energy sets the tone.
Listen actively, ask questions, & contribute thoughtfully to discussions & activities.
Lead with Respect — Always
Treat everyone with kindness & respect — staff, peers, guests.
Be open to new perspectives & give others space to speak & share.
Use Tech with Intention
Phones away unless prompted for a PD activity — stay focused on the moment.
Use your devices only when directed, & for program-related tasks only.
Own Your Experience
Take initiative: if you’re unsure, ask. If you see a need, fill it.
Your growth depends on your effort — what you put in is what you get out.
Protect the Space
Help create a positive, focused environment where everyone can thrive.
Follow directions, manage distractions, & keep side conversations low or on hold.
Meet Your Coach
Your coach is your guide through the ProX experience. You will meet often with your coach and they will check-in with you and your employer weekly. Get to know your coach, and take a peek at the other coaches working with ProX interns.
