Black Bench Chicago graduates first group of young Black leaders in public affairs. Creators hope it’s the start of an emerging, ongoing talent pipeline.

Black Bench Chicago founder Alex Sims applauds other speakers as the organization’s first cohort of graduates gathers Nov. 14 during an event at Tree House in River North. The organization launched in the spring of 2021 with the goal of training a new generation of Black leaders in politics, government, policy and advocacy. (Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune)