Training the next generation of leaders

ARE you, or is someone you know, an aspiring community leader?

The City of Greater Geelong’s 2025 Community Leadership Program seeks to empower emerging and grassroots leaders to make a difference locally.

This program, which Council is offering at no charge to participants, seeks to build their understanding of the wide-ranging needs of the Geelong community while providing essential leadership and professional growth opportunities.

The program spans eight months, from March to October 2025, and eight all-day face-to-face sessions will be held on the second Wednesday of each month.

The sessions offer hands-on activities, interactive experiences, guided individual tasks and site visits to various venues around the Geelong region.

Passionate and skilled leaders have never been in greater demand, and this program seeks to amplify the impact of our leaders within the community.

The Community Leadership Program is open to anyone over the age of 18 with a strong interest in leadership who lives, works or volunteers within the Greater Geelong region.

The program focuses on personal development by promoting healthy mindsets and professional development through unique experiences.

By learning skills in communication, resilience, problem-solving and more, participants explore what it means to be a leader and how to inspire others.

Participants will receive a direct look at the impact of effective leadership across different sectors with insights from recognised community and industry experts.

No formal professional experience is needed for this program – just a passion for community leadership and a desire to learn.

During the program, community members will participate in experiences aimed at supporting emerging leaders with personal and professional growth opportunities.

The City of Greater Geelong is committed to developing skilled leaders in our region and, at its core, this program is designed for those ready to grow as community-minded leaders.

Seeing real-world examples helps participants better understand their region’s needs and challenges.

Such insight gives future leaders the confidence to take their place in projects that benefit the whole community.

Program graduates will become members of the Community Leadership Alumni, giving them ongoing opportunities to network with other local leaders and partake in professional development workshops.

A unique feature of the program is its emphasis on diversity and inclusion, which enriches participants’ experiences by exposing them to unique perspectives that broaden their understanding of the community.

This diversity encourages greater adaptability and open-mindedness in tackling community issues.

People of all backgrounds, abilities and life experiences are encouraged to apply, and the City will work with applicants to address any potential barriers to participation.

Applications for the next intake close on Friday, November 22, and the first session will be held on March 23, 2025.

For more information or to apply, head to geelong.link/CLP2.

Spots are limited, so apply early to secure your chance to lead, learn and positively impact your community.