Welcome to Okinawa Leadership Seminar
Empowering military spouses through leadership education, mentorship, and meaningful community. Discover opportunities to grow, connect, and create lasting impact.
Get Involved
Upcoming Workshops & Events
OLS Brains & Books: February21 days to the eventMon, Feb 23Private Residence – Address Sent After RSVP
STAY IN THE KNOW
Our Mission & Values
The Purpose and Principles That Guide Our Work
Okinawa Leadership Seminar (OLS) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to enriching the military community serving on Okinawa by educating active-duty spouses in the principles of effective leadership. Our vision is to equip military spouses with the skills and confidence to positively impact their families, organizations, and communities—both now and in the future.
Guided by our core values of professionalism, inclusivity, servant leadership, empowerment, collaboration, teamwork, and respect, OLS delivers intentional leadership development through education, mentorship, and community engagement. We prepare participants to build strong teams, communicate effectively, resolve conflict, and cultivate meaningful professional relationships. Our programs provide versatile leadership tools that support success across military, community, personal, and professional life.
Location
Okinawa, Japan
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Where Impact Happens
Leadership Development in Action
Bi-Annual Leadership Seminar
A three-day leadership seminar each spring and fall for active-duty military spouses, made possible through partner support. Participants engage with speakers, develop leadership skills, and connect with peers and local professionals. Alumni often return as certified OLS Facilitators, continuing a cycle of mentorship and growth.
Lunch & Learns
Monthly sessions provided at no cost that foster dialogue, growth, and connection. While focused on military spouses, these sessions are open to SOFA members and the broader military community, including active-duty service members and veterans.
Brains & Books Club
A leadership-focused book club, bringing leadership literature to life through dialogue and shared reflection. Participants develop leadership skills, personal growth, and lasting community connections.
Our Leadership Team
The People Behind the Mission
Behind Okinawa Leadership Seminar is a dedicated group of military spouses and volunteers who live the challenges and joys of military life every day. We’re a team driven by passion, resilience, and a genuine desire to support and empower spouses—whether you’re a stay-at-home mom, pursuing a career, or somewhere in between.
We feel grateful to serve such an amazing community. Though we were selected by our peers, it’s the trust and encouragement from military spouses like you that truly inspire us. We’re here to support, listen, and grow alongside you every step of the way.
Andriana S.
“My biggest takeaway from OLS is the importance of nurturing my authenticity. As an introvert, my approach to leadership has always been to imitate my extroverted friends. Listening to the OLS speakers and learning more about different personality types has changed my view. "
Jezelle D.
"OLS taught me that there are real life moms and dads making a difference whether small or large. Have a passion? Go for it! Find your support and work for what matters to you. Every speaker in OLS gave you the motivation to be a great leader."
Emily M.
“I loved the variety of speakers from fellow milspouses to the Consulate General. My favorite part was meeting all the other amazing participants and getting to know a select small group. The seminar empowered me to want to lead and to help our more in the military community!”
Our Special Partners
Working Together to Strengthen Our Community
OLS is proud to collaborate with community and organizational partners who share our commitment to leadership development, service, and strengthening the military community on Okinawa.
Creative Volunteers
Celebrating the Talent Behind Our Story
We are deeply grateful to the photographers and videographers who volunteered their time and talent during the Fall 2025 Okinawa Leadership Seminar. Their work capturing content, photos, and personalized professional headshots helped bring OLS programs to life and showcase our participants in a meaningful way.
Get Involved
Upcoming Workshops & Events
- OLS Brains & Books: February21 days to the eventMon, Feb 23Private Residence – Address Sent After RSVP
Make a donation
Support Okinawa Leadership Seminar and help grow the next generation of leaders! As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we rely on community support to power our seminars, lunch & learns, and book club. Your donation keeps our programs vibrant, accessible, and impactful. Thank you for making leadership thrive in Okinawa!
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Copyright © 2023 Okinawa Leadership Seminar, Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
Okinawa Leadership Seminar is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization registered in the US under EIN
Number 81-3421538. This is a non-Federal entity. It is not part of the Department of Defense or any of its components and holds no governmental status.