About Emerging Leaders

Emerging Leaders was created to support youth and adults in developing leadership capacity, social-emotional awareness, and career readiness. Our coaching is rooted in peer-assisted learning, resilience, and strength-based, research-informed practices. Each session takes an action-oriented approach, driven by inspiration and motivation rather than avoidance or apathy.

We focus on authentic engagement, healing-centered practices, and building bridges across generations. At the heart of this work is a belief that everyone has the power to lead — not through hierarchy, but through empowerment.

Nicole Bycina, MBA, MSW

Founder of Emerging Leaders

Nicole Collette Bycina is a certified coach for individuals and teams.

My personal approach to life is to live in alignment with one’s values. Because of this, values are at the center of my work with clients, incorporating approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Motivational Interviewing.

My daughter, along with the young people I’ve had the privilege of working with throughout my career, have been my greatest teachers. Their journeys through health and mental health challenges have inspired my commitment to healing-centered, youth-driven support.

Through their experiences, I’ve witnessed the power of resilience, wellness, and the ability to turn life lessons into skills for career and life success. This foundation shapes the Emerging Leaders model today, and their voices continue to guide how we hold space for young people navigating life’s challenges.

Nicole holds a Master’s in Social Work and a Master’s Degree in Business Management, with a focus on coaching, peer development, career readiness, and leadership growth.

With over 20 years of experience in clinical and macro social work, educational leadership, and higher education instruction, she has served in a range of roles that demonstrate her commitment to growth, equity, and empowerment.

Mission & Vision

Our Mission

To cultivate confident, self-aware leaders through coaching, community connection, and personalized learning experiences that promote wellness, agency, and lasting success.

Our Vision

A world where young people and professionals alike are equipped with the emotional intelligence, communication skills, and social support needed to lead meaningful lives and inspire others.

Our Core Values

Equity

We believe in equal access, fairness, and dignity for all.

Empathy

Every voice matters, and every story counts.

Resilience

Growth emerges through challenge and reflection.

Integrity

We uphold transparency and truth in all we do.

Partnership

Collaboration is at the core of transformation.

Our Core Practices

Peer-Assisted Coaching

Learning in partnership builds trust and deepens impact. Lived experience holds equal value to professional expertise.

Strength-Based Practice

We focus on what’s working and build from a foundation of strength, purpose, and passion.

Healing-Centered Engagement

Emotional wellness and trauma-informed care are essential to lasting growth and connection.

Youth-Driven Voice

Young people take the lead in shaping their futures and influencing positive change.

Reflective Practice

Self-awareness is the cornerstone of effective, compassionate leadership.