About | Leigh Lester

Meet Leigh Lester, Your Guide

About Me
Hi, I’m Leigh Lester—consultant, facilitator, educator, and unapologetic champion for the communities that too many overlook.

For over 27 years, I’ve been turning policy into practice, breaking down complex regulations into strategies that actually work for nonprofits, small businesses, and the everyday changemakers who keep our communities alive. As the Founder & Executive Director of the Ubuntu Institute of Learning—named after the South African proverb "I am because we are"—I lead an international training organization with one goal: to make sustainability possible for the people and organizations doing the hard work.

My work lives at the intersection of Affordable Housing and Intrapreneurship. Whether it’s guiding housing counselors to pass the HUD Certification Exam, helping nonprofit leaders stabilize and grow, or designing training that transforms complicated policies into clear, actionable steps, I believe in solutions that are as practical as they are powerful.

People come to me because I’m not just a trainer—I’m a strategist, a connector, and a coach who knows how to get results without drowning you in jargon. My sessions are engaging, my curriculum is accessible (even for the most neuro-spicy brains), and my commitment runs deep. If you work with me, expect clarity, candor, and a few laughs along the way.

In short: I’m here to help you move from “we’re surviving” to “we’re thriving.” Because when we strengthen the most underserved, we lift everyone.

Transforming Challenges into Triumphs

Growing up, I faced challenges with traditional learning methods, which often left me feeling frustrated and misunderstood. It wasn't until I discovered my passion for housing counseling that I found a way to channel my unique learning style into something impactful.

Determined to make a difference, I founded Ubuntu Institute of Learning. My goal was to create a space where others, especially those with neurodivergent learning styles, could find the support and resources they needed to succeed in the field of affordable housing.

Through years of dedication and continuous learning, I developed a comprehensive HUD Exam Prep program. This program not only helped me achieve my certification but also empowered countless others to do the same.

Today, I'm proud to share my journey and the tools I've created with you. Whether you're juggling work, family, or unique learning needs, I'm here to guide you towards your own success story.

My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a deep commitment to equity in housing. By working together, we can transform your challenges into triumphs, just as I did.

Learn More

Education, Coaching and Advocacy for Under-invested Communities

At Ubuntu Institute of Learning, we specialize in Speaking, Training, Consulting, Coaching, and Championing equity in housing and nonprofit-preneurial education.

From dynamic keynote presentations to hands-on HUD Exam Prep courses, we empower housing professionals and mission-driven organizations through engaging, accessible learning. Whether it’s one-on-one coaching, customized workshops, or strategic consulting, everything we do is rooted in justice, powered by purpose, and designed to create lasting impact.

“I had the pleasure of working with Leigh when she was at the NCHFA. I found her work ethic to be exemplary and her seasoned contributions to be invaluable. Highly professional and personally inspirational; Leigh is someone I would unquestionably want on my team.”

Edward Tonini,

Executive Director of 247 Financial Health

Sirena Moore-Thomas

Founder of Highmark Group, LLC

"Leigh is an extremely gifted individual with a heart of gold. I’ve had the privilege of working with her on several projects. She is a talented researcher with a passion for seeing organizations maximize opportunities."

Eric Salazar,

Director of UnidosUS Affiliated Investments,

Raza Development Fund

I have known and worked with Leigh throughout my career at UnidosUs. She has always been someone you can count on for substantive ideas and actionable recommendations that add value to any project she is working on. She is a great messenger of our brand and uses her platform to interest potential partners in working with UnidosUs Learning Alliance. She is an optimizer - often looking to integrate her work and skills wherever she is needed. Working with Leigh is always a positive and growth experience for anyone on her team.

Let's Connect

Got questions? Big ideas? A training need you’re ready to tackle? We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re looking for the perfect course, want to explore a partnership, or just need to know where to start, reach out and let’s make it happen. Drop us a message, and we’ll get back to you—coffee in hand and solutions at the ready.

Leigh Lester

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