Okinawa
Leadership
Seminar
Leadership Skills for Military Spouses.
We ensure leadership isn't one of the things you leave behind. The Okinawa Leadership Seminar provides a dedicated space for spouses to sharpen their professional skills, find mentors who understand the OCONUS lifestyle, and build a network that lasts far beyond this duty station.
See What's Possible Below
Get Involved
Upcoming Workshops & Events
March's Lunch & Learn: “Service that Serves You Back” with Jennifer Butler3 days to the eventTue, Mar 17Schilling Community Center, Kadena AB
2026 Spring Okinawa Leadership Seminar31 days to the eventTue, Apr 14Butler Officers' Club, Plaza Housing
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.
2025 Fall Okinawa Leadership Seminar
2025 Fall Okinawa Leadership Seminar
2025 Fall Seminar - Day 3: Presence
2025 Fall Seminar - Day 2: Purpose
2025 Fall Seminar - Day 1: Power
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.
Dawn Goldberg Ellison
OLS Advisor
Latoya Scott
OLS President
Melissa Jurmu
OLS Administrative Director
Shamese Richburg
OLS Treasurer
Kimberly Sanders
OLS Advisor
Sara Rizzo-Benson
OLS Vice President
Stephanie Singleton
OLS Continuing Leadership &
Education Coordinator
Marion Strelke
OLS Book Club Director
Lupi Tupou
OLS Enlisted Advisor
Isabel McNeish
OLS Parliamentarian
Jasleyv Metellus
OLS Financial Development Officer
Chandra Singletary
OLS Public Relations Director
A Message from the OLS Leadership Board
Executive Board Update: Welcoming Sarah Rizzo-Benson
The Okinawa Leadership Seminar (OLS) is pleased to share an update regarding our Executive Board as we prepare for the 2026 Spring Seminar.
A Transition of Leadership
After more than two years of dedicated service, Stephanie Singleton is transitioning out of her role as Vice President. Stephanie has been instrumental in executing four multi-day seminars and numerous monthly programs. While she focuses on her educational and professional journey, we are grateful she will continue to host our monthly Lunch & Learn series, maintaining the consistent connection our community values.
Looking Ahead
We are proud to announce the appointment of Sarah Rizzo-Benson as our new Vice President. Sarah joins the OLS board with a strong background in community engagement and leadership initiatives. Her commitment to empowering military spouses aligns perfectly with our mission to provide intentional leadership development and mentorship.
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
- March's Lunch & Learn: “Service that Serves You Back” with Jennifer Butler3 days to the eventTue, Mar 17Schilling Community Center, Kadena AB
- 2026 Spring Okinawa Leadership Seminar31 days to the eventTue, Apr 14Butler Officers' Club, Plaza Housing
STAY IN THE KNOW
Location
Okinawa, Japan
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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.