Australia’s unique executive leadership initiative exclusively for Women of Colour is set to return in Victoria for its second year, opening up new opportunities for aspiring leaders. The Women of Colour Executive Leadership Program (WoC ELP), a four-month journey of empowerment and skill-building, aims to bridge the leadership gap in Australian institutions by fostering the growth and confidence of Women of Colour in their professional careers.
Women of Colour Australia (WoCA), the non-profit organisation behind this initiative, has announced that applications are now open. WoCA is committed to advocating for the advancement of Women of Colour through education and community support. The WoC ELP is a transformative experience designed to uplift Women of Colour, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, addressing their unique challenges and supporting their rise to leadership roles.
Participants in the WoC ELP face obstacles such as gender bias, racism, language barriers, and workplace discrimination. These barriers often hinder their leadership potential and career progression. Recognising the need for more inclusive and diverse representation in leadership roles, WoCA aims to mitigate these disparities, which can lead to long-term social and economic disadvantages.
Brenda Gaddi, Founder and Managing Director of Women of Colour Australia, emphasises the importance of creating an environment where Women of Colour can thrive. “At WoCA, we are dedicated to fostering a more inclusive and diverse society. Women of Colour in traditional career development programs often navigate White spaces, code-switching and feeling unsafe to be their authentic selves. Our Executive Leadership Program addresses these unique challenges while providing a supportive environment for skill and confidence development. Together, we can drive positive change and create a world where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”
The impact of the WoC ELP is evident, with 67% of the 2023 cohort promoted within six months of completing the program. Gaddi highlights the program’s effectiveness in gradually reducing the leadership gap in Australia by elevating more Women of Colour to leadership positions across various industries.
Running from August to November 2024, the WoC ELP is fully funded and offers a blend of in-person workshops, personalised online executive coaching sessions with top executive coach Koon Lai, and networking opportunities. Participants will benefit from the expertise of respected subject matter experts and thought leaders, all Women of Colour. Facilitators include Tasneem Chopra OAM, Winitha Bonney OAM, and Abiola Ajetomobi. The program also provides small group coaching, executive mentoring, and comprehensive assessments before and after the program.
With 16 spots available, including five reserved for members of the Victorian Public Service, the program aims to make lasting impacts in workplaces and communities. Applications are open until midnight on Monday, 1 July 2024. Women of Colour, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women living in Victoria, are encouraged to apply.
Natalie Hutchins MP, Minister for Women, supports the initiative, stating, “We’re breaking down barriers for women of all backgrounds by giving them access to tangible programs that drive real change across every sector in Victoria. We are empowering diverse women to forge ahead in their careers.”
Ingrid Stitt, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, adds, “Having culturally diverse leadership enables organisations to get the best outcomes. This program will unlock the potential of women across a variety of sectors to step into or continue their leadership journey.”
Lama, an Associate Director at Deloitte Australia and a 2023 participant, praises the program’s uniqueness and effectiveness. “The WoC ELP was the first of its kind in Australia – a program for Women of Colour designed and delivered by Women of Colour. One highlight was the session run by Mahana Culture, where we learned to apply Aboriginal and Pacific-based concepts to transforming projects and cultures. The one-on-one coaching, including customised guidance and 360-degree feedback, was invaluable.”
Devika, a Senior Manager in the Victorian Public Service and another 2023 participant, shares her experience: “I wanted to be the change agent in my organisation to transform the culture to be one which dismantles the barriers that Women of Colour face in the workplace. WoC ELP allowed me to pursue opportunities, strengthen my networking, and be a catalyst for change in my organisation. It also encouraged me to use my voice for advocacy.”
Applications close midnight Monday 1 July 2024. Women of Colour including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women living in Victoria are encouraged to apply here.
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