The Connections Team, led by Matt Plaks (he/him), helps all volunteers, ambassadors, and families feel connected, supported, and engaged throughout the WLC. This team plays a vital role in shaping a memorable and impactful event by enhancing the volunteer experience, promoting DEIA values, and documenting the week with high-quality media.
Below are descriptions of each role within the Connections Team, highlighting the responsibilities and qualifications required to foster a greater sense of connection at the WLC.
For questions about joining the Connections Team, contact Matt at incomingchair@hobywlc.org.
As the DEIA Director for HOBY’s World Leadership Congress (WLC), you will support efforts to ensure Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) principles are woven throughout the event. This planning and on-site role will require significant cross-functional collaboration.
WLC experience required: None
Onsite dates: Wednesday, July 22, arrival; attend full event
Age: 21+
Apply by: January 5
Reports to: Vice Chair of Connections
Direct reports: Accessibility Manager, DEIA Committee
Approximate expected time commitment:
January-March: 1-2 hours / week
April-July: 3-5 hours / week
Collaborate with others to integrate DEIA-focused elements throughout the volunteer training and experience programs.
Contribute to the design and implementation of DEIA and identity-based learning opportunities in ambassador programming.
Contribute to the ongoing documentation and development of DEIA initiatives and playbooks so that future WLC teams are set up for success.
Experience designing and implementing DEIA initiatives in an organization
Strong communication skills
Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams
This role is ideal for individuals passionate about promoting DEIA values and supporting the development of an inclusive, impactful WLC experience.
As the DEIA Manager for HOBY’s World Leadership Congress (WLC), you will support efforts to ensure Accessibility principles are woven throughout the event. This planning and on-site role will require significant cross-functional collaboration.
WLC experience required: None
Onsite dates: Thursday, July 23, arrival; attend full event
Age: 21+
Apply by: February 2
Reports to: DEIA Director
Direct reports: n/a
Approximate expected time commitment:
January-March: 1-2 hours / week
April-July: 3-5 hours / week
Collaborate with others to ensure that spaces, program details, and physical or digital content are in line with accessibility standards and are inclusive for individuals with a range of needed accommodations.
Contribute to the creation of accessibility best practices (e.g., a playbook other teams can use to ensure accessibility is a core component of all that we do instead of an afterthought) and the documentation of lessons learned to help future WLCs continue and improve upon this year’s work.
Support the DEIA Director and collaborate with the DEIA Committee on additional projects as needed.
Experience designing and implementing accessibility initiatives in an organization or professional setting
Strong communication skills
Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams
This role is ideal for individuals passionate about promoting accessibility and supporting the development of an inclusive, impactful WLC experience.
As a member of the DEIA Committee for HOBY’s World Leadership Congress (WLC), you will support efforts to ensure Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) principles are woven throughout the event.
Note: This role can be held in conjunction with another role. We aim to have the majority of the DEIA Committee composed of volunteers that hold a separate on-site role; however, this role can also be held as a planning-only role for those unable to join us in DC.
WLC experience required: None
Onsite dates: Please consult onsite dates for your other role, if any
Age: 18+
Apply by: February 2
Reports To: DEIA Director
Approximate Expected Time Commitment
January-March: 1-2 hours / week
April-July: 1-3 hours / week
Support the integration of DEIA-focused elements throughout the volunteer training and experience programs.
Contribute to the design and implementation of DEIA principles and learning opportunities in ambassador programming.
Contribute to the ongoing documentation and development of DEIA initiatives and playbooks so that future WLC teams are set up for success.
Familiarity with DEIA principles and initiatives in an organization or professional setting
Strong communication skills
Experience collaborating with asynchronous teams
This role is ideal for individuals passionate about promoting DEIA values and supporting the development of an inclusive, impactful WLC experience.
As the Media Director for HOBY’s World Leadership Congress (WLC), you will lead the Media Team in creating and documenting a cohesive brand presence for the event. This role involves managing media projects, directing communications, and collaborating across teams to ensure timely delivery of all tasks.
WLC experience required: 1+ Years
Onsite dates: Wednesday, July 22, arrival; attend full event
Age: 21+
Apply by: January 5
Reports to: Vice Chair of Connections
Direct reports: Social Media Coordinator, Photographers (2x), Graphic Designer, HOBY Store Manager
Approximate expected time commitment:
January-March: 1-2 hours / week
April-July: 3-5 hours / week
Work with HOBY HQ to develop and maintain a consistent brand presence before and throughout the event.
Collaborate cross functionally on various pre-seminar media projects (e.g., partner with the Program Team to refresh the WLC Program Website).
Plan and direct various on-site projects in collaboration with other teams (e.g., large group, state and country, and ambassador group photo sessions).
Support and oversee the Media Team, including the Media Coordinator, 2x Photographers, and Graphic Designer, ensuring projects are completed on time.
Strong ability to manage projects against competing priorities
Familiarity with creating content for external audiences
Experience with professional external and/or internal communications
This role is ideal for individuals with strong organizational and communication skills who are passionate about creating impactful and professional media for a high-profile leadership event.
As a Photographer for HOBY’s World Leadership Congress (WLC), you will be responsible for documenting key moments and memories of the event. This role involves planning, photographing, editing, and organizing images to showcase the energy and impact of the WLC experience for alumni and stakeholders unable to join us in person.
WLC experience required: None
Onsite dates: Thursday, July 23, arrival; attend full event
Age: 18+
Apply by: February 2
Reports To: Media Director
Direct Reports: n/a
Approximate Expected Time Commitment: April-July: 1-2 hours / week
Collaborate with the Media Director to develop a photography plan for key program moments prior to arrival.
Capture and process high-quality images of ambassadors and volunteers with a focus on documenting the moments throughout the WLC.
Organize and prepare images on-site to deliver a final portfolio of media to be used by HOBY HQ for archival and promotional use.
Professional or semi-professional photography and photo editing experience
Access to and ability to bring a professional-grade digital camera (e.g., DSLR or similar) to WLC
Access and ability to bring a laptop and peripherals for on-site photo editing
A portfolio of work for review (please include in your application)
This role is ideal for skilled photographers passionate about capturing meaningful moments and contributing to the storytelling of the WLC experience.
As the Media Coordinator for HOBY’s World Leadership Congress (WLC), you will manage social media, visual content, and written newsletters to connect and engage the WLC community. This low-prep role focuses on creating and sharing content, moderating online interactions, and supporting the Media Team with key projects during the event.
WLC experience required: None
Onsite dates: Thursday, July 23, arrival; attend full event
Age: 18+
Apply by: February 2
Reports to: Media Director
Direct reports: n/a
Approximate Expected Time Commitment: April-July: 1-3 hours / week
Develop and execute a social media plan, including a content schedule leading up to and during the WLC.
Manage HOBY’s social media accounts, posting content in alignment with HOBY’s brand voice, engaging with comments and messages, and escalating important messages as needed.
Assist with other Media Team projects as needed (e.g., Program assets, newsletters, etc), supporting a cohesive and engaging media presence.
Experience using social media in a professional context.
Strong writing skills with an understanding of brand voice and tone.
Creativity and a passion for engaging audiences through digital content.
This role is ideal for social media enthusiasts who want to contribute to WLC’s success by fostering online connections and showcasing memorable event moments.
As the Graphic Designer for HOBY’s World Leadership Congress (WLC), you will create and deliver professional, cohesive designs that align with HOBY’s branding. This is a planning-only role that can be combined with another role.
WLC experience required: None
Onsite dates: n/a
Age: 18+
Apply by: February 2
Reports To: Media Director
Direct Reports: None
Approximate Expected Time Commitment:
January-March: 1-3 hours / week
April-July: 3-4 hours / week
Collaborate with HOBY HQ to create graphics consistent with the HOBY brand for a range of materials (e.g., nametags, newsletters, t-shirts).
Design templates and assets for internal and external communications.
Work cross-functionally to assist the Media Team in achieving deadlines.
Experience designing graphics for digital use
A portfolio of work for review (please include in application)
Familiarity with social media design in a professional context
This role is ideal for creative and detail-oriented individuals passionate about contributing to the visual success of a high-profile leadership event.
As the HOBY Store Manager for HOBY’s World Leadership Congress (WLC), you will oversee the management and operation of the HOBY Store. This low-prep role involves tracking inventory, coordinating merchandise needs, and ensuring a successful store experience for attendees during the event.
WLC experience required: None
Onsite dates: Thursday, July 23, arrival; attend full event
Age: 21+
Apply by: February 2
Reports To: Media Director
Approximate Expected Time Commitment: April-July: 2-3 hours / week
Manage and oversee all aspects of the HOBY Store from the organization and promotion of materials to the execution of sales
Collaborate with the Media Team to ensure merchandise is ordered in the proper sizes and quantities.
Track inventory of all store items in order to deliver a post-WLC inventory report.
Strong communication and organizational skills
Ability to multitask effectively
Basic proficiency in spreadsheets and data management
Familiarity with inventory management in a volunteer or professional setting
This role is ideal for organized and detail-oriented individuals who enjoy engaging with attendees and ensuring the successful operation of the HOBY Store.
As the Volunteer Experience Director for HOBY’s World Leadership Congress (WLC), you will focus on creating a positive and enriching experience for all volunteers. This role involves designing comprehensive training, implementing feedback processes, and ensuring volunteers are supported both before and during the event.
WLC Experience Required: 2+ Years
Onsite dates: Wednesday, July 23, arrival; attend full event
Age: 21+
Apply by: January 5
Reports To: Vice Chair of Connections
Direct Reports: n/a
Approximate Expected Time Commitment:
January-March: 1-2 hours / week
April-July: 3-5 hours / week
Develop and implement engaging virtual and on-site volunteer training in consultation with the Incoming Chair and Leadership Team
Develop and implement engaging virtual and on-site social programming.
Design and execute a volunteer feedback process to be used during the WLC to support volunteer growth and development.
Act as a resource for volunteers, addressing concerns, listening to ideas, and escalating feedback to the Leadership Team as needed.
Experience in people management, HR, coaching, or similar roles.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for volunteers.
Proactive and resourceful with a focus on community-building.
This role is ideal for individuals passionate about volunteer engagement and development, with a focus on ensuring volunteers feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed.