Leigh Lester is the Founder and Executive Director of Ubuntu Institute of Learning, an international training organization focused on social justice issues, affordable housing, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). With over 25 years of experience, she specializes in translating policy initiatives into actionable housing programs and developing strategic partnerships with government and nonprofit organizations. As an advocate and educator, Leigh has led national training initiatives to improve housing counseling services and empower underserved communities. She was recently appointed to a 3 year of HUD’s Office of Housing Counseling Advisory Committee. She is a participant in the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency's Project Reach. She serves on the Board of Directors for ConnectUp! Minnesota, and is a member of the Board of Trustees for The Appraisal Foundation. Additionally, Leigh is a Global Advisor with How Women Lead, where she mentors women leaders to drive social change and co-facilitates the Black Diaspora Cohort.