Learning to be the leaders of tomorrow

Surf Coast Secondary College students took part in Upstart’s inaugural Learn to Lead program, which was supported by Torquay Community Enterprises and a private donor.

Over three days, 14 students were taught practical skills and heard from a range of people, including young female engineers from Ford Australia’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, an executive from the Bendigo Community Bank, and Member for Western Victoria Stuart Grimley.

Mr Grimley said he felt the program would be of great benefit to the participating students who he was pleased to be able to help.

“This is a great initiative by the dedicated staff at the college and all the students were enthusiastic and keen to understand more about what makes an effective leader and how to best utilise their skills and knowledge in becoming productive and driven members of the community.

“I was also delighted to award scholarships to all the students who completed the program to assist them with their school tuition in 2020 and look forward the Learn to Lead program continuing and expanding in the future years.”

Upstart founder Heather Kelly said the program was something they would look to grow in the future.

“This pilot program has clearly demonstrated the need to help young people discover their leadership potential outside of the classroom setting and this year’s cohort rose to the challenge.

“We’re looking forward to expanding this opportunity to more students in the region next year.”

The program also looked to help students identify future career pathways.