Hello Michelle, This is an exciting project and I'm glad to be able to offer some concepts.
My concept involves the initial letters contained in a shape which resembles a book – relating to knowledge. Which I think sits well with training, mentoring and learning. But it's quite subtle and that means it can also has the feel of a shield – referencing the "Powerful People" aspect.
The use of three bars in the icon to make up the "E" gives it a sense of speed (Express) – or organisation / method.
I hope this is on track – if you have any questions at all please get in touch here.
Variation - text and placement. More emphasis on Express - the Leadership in dark grey does still remain dominant. This format gives a sense of action by highlighting Express.
This concept is something fresh and different. This icon 'le', being lower case, is quietly confident – it also represents a person with their arm up, leading. Whether or not you see this is irrelevant - I might be a nice training subject! Anyway it breaks the norm and it's got a fun edge to it – I thought that what you said about not wanting to scare people off looking too corporate and hard edged that this might fit the bill.
Thanks for your entries. I do like #119 best. The other ones remind me of Harry Potter with the book, although I like the thought behind it. Could you try different colours too? Variations in red and blue. And I'm not sure if I like the tagline where it currently is.
Thanks for the feedback Michele. Yes, you are right with the other concept - it's good but not as fresh and modern as this one. My Harry Potter-mad daughter would be proud. Back to this idea - here are some other colour options. I've embellished the colours very slightly with a gradient – don't want it to interfere with the simplicity but it does give it a slight lift.