Inspirations for young regional leaders from the Emerging Champions Program
Synectic Client Manager Alyssa Mahar recently had the opportunity to participate in the inaugural Emerging Champions Program at the SEGRA (Sustainable Economic Growth for Regional Australia) Foundation’s National Regional and Economic Development Summit in Busselton, WA. Led by Adam Mostogl of the Van Diemen Project and designed to connect and inspire ten emerging leaders aged 25-39, the program fosters collaboration among young professionals committed to advancing regional Australia. Below, Alyssa shares key takeaways from her experience, offering inspiration for other young leaders.
Building resilience through shared experiences
One impactful part of the program was hearing each participant’s lesson—a mix of resilience, adaptability, and supportive networks. This experience underscored how, as emerging leaders, we can strengthen our resolve by sharing and learning from each other’s journeys.
Insights from diverse leaders
At the summit, experts shared unique perspectives that opened my eyes to new approaches.
Challenging expectations
With her background in finance and agriculture, Sarah Lang offered a unique perspective on challenging traditional gender and location-based expectations. Her belief that success isn’t bound to cities, along with her focus on community, deeply resonated with me, as someone passionate about regional communities.
Culture and creativity
Scott Robinson, founder of thebox agency, explored creativity’s role in regional business. For Scott, creativity isn’t just talent; it’s strategic, innovative thinking. His focus on building values-based culture for sustainable growth especially resonated, aligning with Synectic’s own focus on brand and culture.
Collective impact
Dr. Chad Renado, Assistant Director of the Rural Economies Centre of Excellence, focused on rural resilience and building structures for long-term growth. His insights into community-driven strategies and regional strengths overcoming economic and environmental challenges left a lasting impression on me about the power of collective impact.
Young leaders fostering fresh perspectives
Presenting a group reflection to the summit gave us a chance to encourage fresh perspectives on regional challenges. The positive response reinforced how young leaders can infuse longstanding issues with new ideas and energy.
Real-world inspiration from regional innovators
Our tour of Capel Marron Farm and Rocky Ridge Brewery offered firsthand insights into regional innovation. The farm’s commitment to sustainable aquaculture and the brewery’s status as Australia’s first certified carbon-neutral brewery were testaments to sustainability leadership in regional Australia.
Practical takeaways on collaboration and sustainability
A session on “Collaborating for Regional Growth” highlighted the role of strategic partnerships in regional development. Focusing on resilient financial strategies that benefit both businesses and communities, this session offered valuable, practical ideas.
Another session, “Climate and Energy,” extended my understanding of emerging climate-related standards and sustainable business practices, particularly upcoming regulatory changes. This knowledge will help us better advise clients as they align with these new standards.
What can all young leaders take away?
The Emerging Champions Program and SEGRA summit were rich with insights, connections, and inspiration. They reinforced the vital role young leaders play in shaping the future of regional Australia, providing me with ideas and confidence to take on new challenges in sustainability and resilience.
If you’re a young person out there creating solutions to problems within your local community, keep going! Embrace the power in shared experiences, fresh perspectives, and the courage to challenge norms. Whether it’s through resilience, strategic partnerships, or sustainable practices, young regional leaders can drive meaningful change by connecting with others, remaining adaptable, and staying rooted in their community’s strengths.