Changing the Face of Leadership
Career Rising is a culturally intelligent leadership development firm advancing Professionals of Color into positions of influence—without asking them to leave their identities behind.
We believe leadership should reflect the richness, complexity, and brilliance of the global majority. Through culturally conscious coaching, community, and corporate partnerships, we equip leaders to rise with strategy, confidence, and authenticity.
Rooted in Community.
Expanding in Solidarity.
Â
Career Rising began as API Rising, founded with a bold and urgent mission: to increase the share of Asians and Pacific Islanders in leadership within one generation.
We saw firsthand how often Asian and Pacific Islander professionals were misunderstood, overlooked, or pressured to assimilate in order to succeed. Our work focused on building culturally conscious leadership capability—honoring heritage, navigating power dynamics, and redefining what leadership can look like.
As our community grew, we heard a powerful and consistent truth: the experience of being unseen or misunderstood in leadership spaces was not unique to one community. Professionals across the global majority shared similar challenges—and similar aspirations to lead fully and authentically.
In response, we evolved into Career Rising.
Our roots remain strong. We continue to offer API-centered programming and culturally specific spaces. What has expanded is our reach and our solidarity. Today, Career Rising supports Professionals of Color more broadly, while staying grounded in the same mission, vision, and values that started it all.
Our Mission
To increase the share of Professionals of Color in leadership.
We develop culturally intelligent leaders who can navigate complex systems, broaden their influence, and lead in ways that honor both their heritage and their ambition.
Our Vision
A Corporate America that understands and embraces the rich and complex identities, cultures, and leadership styles reflective of the global majority—and reflects that understanding at every level of leadership.
We envision organizations where cultural intelligence is not an afterthought, but a strategic advantage.
Our ValuesÂ
Integrity
We share cultural insight and lived experience honestly and responsibly, with the intention to uplift others and expand understanding.
Inclusivity
We approach every relationship with curiosity, respect, and a commitment to learning from one another. We create spaces where difference is explored—not erased.
Growth
We embrace feedback, reflection, and learning as catalysts for transformation. We acknowledge mistakes, adapt, and continuously evolve toward better leadership.
Cultural Intelligence Is Our Foundation
Many leadership programs teach strategy without identity. Others center identity without equipping leaders to navigate power and performance.
Career Rising integrates both.Â
We combine:
- Strategic leadership development
- Power and influence mapping
- Executive communication and visibility training
- Cultural fluency and systemic awareness
- Community and peer accountability
The result? Leaders who are not only capable—but confident, credible, and culturally grounded.
Who We Work With
Individuals
Professionals of Color seeking advancement and clarity Â
ERGs
Employee Resource Groups building leadership pipelines
HR and L&D
L&D and HR teams committed to culturally intelligent development
Let’s Build Leadership That Lasts
Ready to explore leadership support for you or your organization?
Book a Consultation >
Build the Career You Deserve
Without Leaving Your Culture Behind
Get practical career tools, leadership strategies, and community-driven support designed for professionals of color navigating complex workplaces.
