Welcome to the Future Leaders Program at Harbour Club at WestEdge—Charleston’s Premier Private Business & Social Club.
What began as an idea from a Board Member has grown into a thriving program now in its fifth year, dedicated to developing and connecting Charleston’s next generation of leaders.
What is the Future Leaders Scholarship Program?
The Future Leaders (FL) Scholarship Program is a Board-led initiative. Its mission is to recruit and retain high-performing professionals under the age of 40, with a focus on introducing emerging leaders to the Club.
We seek individuals who are making a meaningful impact in the Charleston community and demonstrate strong potential for future leadership.
Harbour Club leadership recognizes the value this Member group brings, as demonstrated by the success of the program’s first five classes. While recipients are awarded scholarships, this is not a charitable initiative. Rather, it is a strategic investment in the Club’s future—as a hub for innovation, leadership, and community impact across the Charleston metro area.
How are Future Leaders Scholarships funded?
Each year, the program is supported by contributions from Club Members. Donations range from partial support to fully funding a nominated Future Leader.
The inaugural class was funded by a single Board Member and included 15 participants. Since then, both Board Members and the broader Club community have continued to sponsor Future Leaders and contribute to the Scholarship Fund—demonstrating the program’s ongoing importance and success.
What does the FL Scholarship provide?
The FL Scholarship offers a range of financial, professional, and social benefits, including:
• Coverage of the Young Executive Member Initiation Fee
• Access to a network of more than 2,000 local professionals and industry leaders
• Invitations to Young Executive (YEX) Committee events and professional development programs
• Recognition during the Future Leaders introduction ceremony and in Club communications
• Features in Club publications and on social media
• Full access to all amenities, events, and opportunities available to Club Members
How are FL Scholarship recipients nominated?
Nominations are submitted by local civic, professional, educational, nonprofit organizations, Future Leader Alums, and Harbour Club Members.
Nominees must meet the following criteria:
• Be under the age of 40 at the time of the interview and located in Charleston, South Carolina
• Demonstrate professional or community-based leadership experience within the past two years
• Have a record of community service
• Be able to sustain monthly membership dues for at least one year
• Understand and value the benefits of a private business and social Club
How are FL Scholarship recipients selected?
All nominees are required to submit a resume and complete a short questionnaire. Selected candidates will be invited to interview with the Future Leaders Committee.
Following the interview process, candidates are evaluated and ranked, with top applicants awarded a Future Leaders Scholarship.
