At Black in Marine Science (BIMS), the integration of joy-centered leadership principles has emerged as a transformative blueprint for empowering leaders and fostering inclusive environments. This article explores the integration of the Formula for Joy (F4J) model within BIMS, providing a comprehensive overview of its principles and practices. It presents the model as an adaptable leadership approach suitable for a diverse range of leaders and organizational contexts. The F4J model, uniquely designed for the challenges and opportunities within BIMS, specializes in leaders’ personal joy and wellness. It encourages leaders to embark on a journey of self-discovery, embracing their true identities and finding fulfillment within their roles. By fostering an authentic exploration of self and nurturing continuous growth, leaders can cultivate meaningful connections within their teams, promoting collaboration and unity. Moreover, the F4J model highlights the significance of psychological safety and balanced well-being in creating environments where individuals feel valued and culturally supported. By championing an ethos of iterative joyfulness, leaders engage in ongoing self-reflection and improvement, enhancing their well-being while fostering resilience in navigating organizational challenges. This article underscores the practical benefits of joy-centered leadership within BIMS, offering a roadmap for leaders to infuse joy into their practices and drive positive change. By embracing the principles of F4J, leaders within and around BIMS can foster environments of empowerment where diversity is celebrated, and individuals thrive.