Commencing next week, the 2021-22 Leaders for Geelong program has received an overwhelming response from local organisations and individuals with over 40 applications to fill 28 spaces.
In its 16th year and with over 500 Alumni, the Leaders for Geelong Program develops individuals to be a driving force behind a thriving, resilient Geelong, developing capability to meet the challenges of the future.
According to Committee for Geelong CEO Jennifer Cromarty, the program recently underwent a review to ensure the quality and relevance of the program was maintained.
“After a process of significant research and consultation, key elements now in place include: moving the program to a 12-month schedule in 2022 to fall into line with other community leadership programs across the state; activating Leaders for Geelong Alumni as mentors for program participants; increasing the diversity of the participants; and building in flexible delivery methods, both online and face-to-face,” Ms Cromarty said.
“We all faced new challenges over the past year, which prompted a greater focus on personal and professional learning and community cohesion. Program participants are looking to better understand their own leadership style, hear from leaders within the community and establish new networks to create positive impact,” Ms Cromarty said.
The Committee for Geelong has also recently appointed management consultant, Janet Walter, as the new Leadership Portfolio Manager. Ms Walter is responsible for the management, coordination, delivery and development of the Committee for Geelong’s suite of leadership programs.
For over 10 years, Janet has developed emerging, mid-level and executive leaders in a range of industries in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. She is an executive coach, facilitator, program designer and manager, who brings experience from working with organisations such as Ernst and Young, RogenSi, Institute of Executive Coaching and Leadership, Lighthouse and Blackdot.
“The Leaders for Geelong Program is designed to equip participants with a sense of purpose, capability, and agile thinking to help our region to thrive. I take on the role of Program Manager with great excitement. My personal purpose is to develop ‘leaders for good’ – leaders who leave a legacy by deliberately making a tangible positive impact on the collective wellbeing of current and future generations,” said Ms Walter.
Four scholarships were available this year: Hugh Williamson, Committee for Geelong Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Scholarship, YWiLD and the Agriculture Victoria Scholarship. The Leaders for Geelong program receives funding support from the Victorian Government through Regional Development Victoria, major partners Victorian Regional Channels Authority and WorkSafe Victoria and partner Kane Constructions.
For more information about the Leaders for Geelong Program, please contact Vicki Strachan at victoria.strachan@committeeforgeelong.com.au
Media contact: Holly Earl, Corporate Affairs Manager, Committee for Geelong
Contact: 0447 306 551 / holly.earl@committeeforgeelong.com.au