First Nations women’s leadership program now open

THE state government has opened applications for its leadership program designed by and for First Nations women.

The program offers culturally safe training to support women’s leadership aspirations and build on their strengths.

First Nations women from Geelong, the Surf Coast and Bellarine are encouraged to enter.

Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins announced that applications for the Elevating Connections, Healing Ourselves (ECHO) Program are open.

“First Nations women already hold critical roles in their families, communities and organisations, so they should also be represented in leadership roles and other positions of influence, right across our state,” Ms Hutchins said.

Ms Hutchins said the program ensures First Nations women are represented in leadership roles and positions of influence across the state.

“ECHO helps First Nations women advance in leadership positions, create networks and gain experiences they may need to progress their careers, navigate employment pathways, and build skills and financial security,” she said.

Since its launch in 2021, more than 48 First Nations women have participated in ECHO.

Past participants have undertaken Fulbright scholarships, joined the Jo Fisher Future Board Scholarship program, started businesses, and assumed managerial roles.

This year, 14 First Nations women will participate in the program, led by Yorta Yorta consultant Karen Milward and Dr Kerry Arabena, chair of Indigenous Health and director of the Onemda VicHealth Koori Health Unit at the University of Melbourne.

First Nations women face systemic barriers to leadership and recognition, including race-based discrimination and the effects of colonisation.

The ECHO program helps women identify these barriers and use their skills and connections to address them.

The program is part of the state government’s efforts to address barriers to women’s advancement and increase opportunities for rural and diverse women.