Victorian lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) emerging leaders will be given the opportunity to develop their skills and networks through a unique specialist training course.
Minister for Equality Martin Foley has announced applications are open for the fourth round of the Victorian Government’s LGBTIQ+ Leadership Program, which empowers LGBTIQ+ leaders to drive equality across the state.
“LGBTIQ+ leaders have a strong legacy of driving positive change, even under the most difficult of circumstances, and we are doing everything we can to support them develop the skills they need,” said Minister Foley.
“This program is about empowering the next generation of LGBTIQ+ leaders to build on this legacy. Together we can continue making important progress towards equality for rainbow communities.”
The course involves a series of skill-building subjects, which will be delivered over eight weeks between February and March 2022 through in-person and online sessions. Participants also receive one-on-one mentorship from an established LGBTIQ+ leader.
The Government is providing $200,000 for the initiative, which will support 25 emerging leaders to join the program, giving them the skills they need to become future leaders at a range of organisations.
The program recognises there are many parts that make up who people are, and people from regional and rural areas, multicultural and multifaith communities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and people with disability are encouraged to apply.
The Leadership Program is being delivered by The Equality Project – an organisation which aims to create spaces for LGBTIQ+ organisations, advocates and allies to work together through training and conferences.
“Our emerging LGBTIQ+ leaders have learnt so much throughout the challenges of the past two years, and it is important that we tap into this knowledge,” said Commissioner for LGBTIQ+ Communities Todd Fernando.
“To our emerging leaders I say – please get involved in this opportunity to develop and share your skills so you can maximise the impact you have across our state.”
To be eligible to apply, people must identify as LGBTIQ+, be based in Victoria, be 18 years and older, and have up to five years experience as a change-maker or emerging leader.
Applications are now open and close 28 November 2021. For more information and to apply, visit: www.theequalityproject.org.au for details.
Image: Victorian LGBTIQ+ Leadership Program – courtesy of The Equality Project