In the mid-1980s, a group of leaders—primarily from the Caribbean—began building relationships through their mutual connection with Dr. Myles Munroe. Drawn together by a shared passion for leadership development and national transformation, they convened on the island of Curaçao, hosted by Josephine and Gilberto Bakhuis, for a series of strategic discussions that would profoundly shape their ministries and worldview.

These deliberations challenged traditional paradigms, refined their thinking, and inspired a broader vision for leadership—one that extended beyond maintaining average organizations to establishing centers of influence dedicated to educating, equipping, and empowering individuals to become leaders within their respective nations. Recognizing what they described as a “leadership vacuum” throughout many developing nations, they made it a priority to cultivate and raise up a new generation of principled leaders.

The Founders began hosting leadership summits twice each year, attracting hundreds of participants from diverse sectors of society from all parts of the globe. Attendees included educators, scientists, musicians, clergy, church leaders, physicians, politicians, students, business owners, entertainers, and professional athletes. These gatherings became powerful forums for leadership development, national dialogue, collaboration, and personal transformation. Over time, the summits evolved into what is now known as the Global Leadership Forum (GLF). In addition, many Founders and ITWLA members organized local and regional conferences that further expanded the organization’s reach and influence. Through these efforts, ITWLA established a presence and membership in more than 80 nations around the world.

As the world entered the twenty-first century—with both its unprecedented opportunities and growing complexities—a significant generational shift in leadership began emerging globally. A fresh spirit of leadership was rising, particularly among leaders within developing and emerging nations. Many of these individuals were drawn together by a common vision, shared purpose, and deep passion for the advancement of their communities and nations.

Through both formal gatherings and informal interactions, these leaders discovered a profound unity of vision and concern for their cities, nations, and future generations. As relationships deepened, so did the desire for meaningful connection, collaboration, mentorship, and mutual support among leaders who shared similar values and aspirations. Over the years, this desire intensified, resulting in increasing cooperation among hundreds of leaders worldwide who provided one another with encouragement, accountability, inspiration, and fellowship.

ITWLA emerged as a direct response to this growing global movement. The organization was established to provide an official platform and point of reference for strengthening these relationships and advancing leadership development internationally. Today, ITWLA has become a worldwide family of leaders representing virtually every discipline and profession. Through friendship, inspiration, education, professional and technical training, and leadership accountability, the organization continues to impact thousands of leaders around the globe.

Headquartered in Nassau, ITWLA also maintains regional representation in several nations. Its influence continues to expand through consultancy services provided to governments, civic organizations, educational institutions, and corporations, further advancing its mission of transforming followers into leaders and leaders into agents of change. We honor and remember the Founders of ITWLA:

Myles E. Munroe (Founding Chairman of the Board), Turnel Joshua Nelson, Bertril Baird, C.B. Peter Morgan, and Charles Phillips

and Founding Patrons: Jerry Horner and Richard Pinder