Initiative supports professional development and academic learning for Esperance and Ravensthorpe leaders

Encouraging business and community leaders in Esperance and Ravensthorpe has been the focus of a regional initiative. Regional Development Australia Goldfields Esperance hosted its third Esperance Ravensthorpe Leadership Initiative this year. The program saw 16 participants attend six full-day workshops and complete TAFE sessions to earn eight micro-credentials towards a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management. Some participants have already completed the qualification, while others plan to finish the remaining units in the new year. RDA Goldfields Esperance chair Lee Jacobsen said the program encouraged participants to step up as community leaders, apply for more challenging roles, and volunteer in local community groups. “We see ERLI as an investment in people — providing them with opportunities to learn and develop skills that will benefit our entire community,” she said. “ERLI stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering leadership, enhancing local capacity, and building a stronger, more connected community for years to come.” Participants’ achievements were celebrated at the Esperance Civic Centre last month. As part of the ERLI program, participants worked in pairs on a volunteer project before presenting their findings to the group. RDA Goldfields Esperance said the program encouraged attendees to volunteer in their communities, with four participants since joining not-for-profit organisations they had engaged with during the program. Attendees also received personal and professional development opportunities with local mentors. Esperance Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Leonie de Haas said the program allowed participants to expand their networks and gain insight into different sectors. “Speaking with participants following their graduation, I could see and hear their enthusiasm,” she said. “The bond that many have made with their mentor is one that will have a far-reaching effect on the participants, and is something they can draw on in the future.” The program was supported by the Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission, the shire of Esperance, the Esperance Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and South Regional TAFE. GEDC chief executive Kris Starcevich said: “Over the past eight months, it has been positive to see locals participate in professional development workshops with a focus on effective leadership and management, public speaking, volunteering, good governance and decision-making, to build on to their skills, gain TAFE qualifications and advocate for local outcomes.”