Emerging Leaders Program

The 2024 Emerging Leaders Program was a four-day immersive retreat for young people aged 18 to 30 from bushfire-affected communities in North East Victoria. Delivered by Alpine Valleys Community Leadership and facilitated by Anthony and Mel Nicholson from The Mandala Project, the program was supported through the Commonwealth Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program.

Held in Yackandandah, the program focused on developing leadership skills, building confidence, and strengthening community connection. Participants engaged in hands-on workshops, creative expression, guest speakers, site visits, and collaborative activities with the AVCLP 2024 cohort.

Participants completed a post-program evaluation, rating their experience on a scale of 1 to 10. The results showed strong personal and leadership development:

• 9.7 – developed valuable peer connections
• 9.6 – strengthened their ability to connect with others
• 9.6 – better understanding of themselves
• 9.5 – increased confidence in a leadership role
• 9.4 – greater understanding of how to contribute to their community
• 9.3 – stronger sense of direction and understanding of how leadership builds community resilience
• 9.1 – increased awareness of leadership opportunities

Participants described the experience as “transformational,” highlighting improved confidence, self-awareness, and a stronger sense of belonging. The program equipped them with the tools to lead in challenging times, support recovery, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.