Leading to the future
WORKING to accelerate the leadership talents of driven Tasmanians, the Tasmanian Leaders Program attracts applicants who are passionate about the state and the opportunities it provides.
Each year the program hosts a diverse range of applicants from various sectors and professional backgrounds including microbusinesses, nonfor-profits, government and larger corporations.
Successful applicants develop their leadership skills as they identify opportunities in Tasmania, hear from guest speakers as well as gain a wellrounded picture of the state’s economic, social cultural, and environmental outlook.
The part-time program, which runs for 26 days over 11 months, offers a realistic time commitment allowing attendance, reading, reflection and active networking over a sustained period.
For business owner and self-employed graphic designer Megan Rozynski, the program has helped her realise her potential as a leader and the impact she can have.
“The main thing for me is the Tasmanian focus and the diversity of participants,” Ms Rozynski said.
“I am really starting to look into myself a lot more, who I am, what I am doing and my position in the community.
“I have recognised that I’m the decision maker so I need to take more ownership over decisions.
“As the leader of my organisation, I’m more aware now of what impact I have and I have realised that I have the potential to make a wider impact.”
Ms Rozynski, who actually owns two microbusinesses, Creative Hum and Buon Buon Beauty, also said you don’t have to be the leader of a large organisation to be involved with the program.
In addition, her involvement has helped her learn a lot about Tasmania and she felt far more confident in her decision making processes having participated in the program.
“It’s really such a unique opportunity to learn about our state, I don’t think there is anything else that can give you that.”
Architect with Cumulus Studio Jason Licht, applied for the 2017 program after it was recommended by a colleague, and has been enjoying the benefits, knowledge and connections gained.
“If you’re interested in Tasmania’s long-term future and developing leadership skills, then it’s something you should go for,” he said.
Mr Licht said the program has equipped him with the tools to positively influence his organisation and office culture.
“We get to meet some pretty unbelievable people and we’re all passionate about Tasmania,” Mr Licht said.
“I’ve been impressed with the program’s ability to provide exposure and connection to a diverse and unique professional network which has highlighted the amazing depth of expertise our state holds,” he said.
Vital to the success of the program, is the foundation support received annually since inception from the Tasmanian Government through the Department of State Growth. According to Minister for State Growth Matthew Groom the Tasmanian Leaders Program has helped shape a generation of leaders in our state.
“The program has helped develop leaders who have not only gone on to improve their communities, but helped grow the Tasmanian economy and create new business opportunities and jobs for many more Tasmanians,” Mr Groom said.