Advance NOW

Empowering African American Women Leaders

Join us today

Apply for Cohort 3 and give yourself the tools, network, and confidence to thrive in professional and leadership roles.

Advance NOW is Generation NOW’s signature leadership program designed to equip African American women with the tools, network, and confidence to thrive in professional and leadership roles. Since launching, the program has engaged over 175 applicants and proudly graduated 41 women, creating a powerful community of changemakers who are breaking barriers and driving equity across Cincinnati. Through intensive workshops, mentorship, and employer connections, participants leave Advance NOW ready to step into leadership with vision and impact.

This program is made possible through the generous support of United Way of Greater Cincinnati, Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Hale Foundation, and MBT Rise, whose investment ensures that African American women have access to leadership development pathways that transform careers and communities.

Lead Instructor Spotlight:

We are proud to have Nichole Sims as the Lead Instructor for the Advance NOW program, where she has played a pivotal role in shaping the growth and success of our first two cohorts—and will continue to lead the upcoming Cohort 3 in 2026. Nichole brings her extensive expertise in leadership development, career advancement, and professional empowerment to every session, helping participants gain the clarity, confidence, and strategy needed to elevate their personal and professional lives.

Nichole Sims, BBA

Nichole Sims, BBA, is a career strategist, speaker, trainer, and author with 22 years of senior-level talent acquisition experience. A two-time Exceptional Achievement Award winner, she transitioned from a 27-year corporate career to launch Bold Career Consulting, LLC. There, Nichole designs and facilitates leadership development training that empowers individuals to thrive or advance in their ideal careers, while also training hiring managers to build high-performing teams. In addition, her signature program, Career Quest, and accompanying workbook provide comprehensive career development support. A former adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati, Nichole has a heart for helping others achieve career success.

Black women find upward mobility in Cincinnati

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Testimonials

Ania Cosby Testimony

Brittany Davis Testimony

In The News

Past Graduates