The program has challenged my thinking, pushed me beyond my comfort zone, and helped me see the unique value I bring to my community - not just as a dairy farmer or a mum, but as a leader with lived experience, insight, and something real to contribute. One of the most valuable shifts for me has been redefining what leadership looks like. It’s no longer just about formal titles - it’s about showing up with purpose, using my voice, and recognising the influence we each have in our communities.

This process has profoundly impacted me, fostering personal growth and increasing my confidence in my actions, thoughts, and intentions. Professionally, it has sharpened my focus, and in my community involvement, it has enhanced my sense of purpose and direction.

Being encouraged to explore the ‘why’ behind what we each do within our communities, and being able to share and discuss our self-realisations and observations has been more beneficial to my development than I could have ever imagined.

Significant changes from attending the AVCLP include a building of my ability to guide conversations in an authentic manner.

Willingly leaving my comfort zone became a key driver for me to get the most out of this program.

Reflecting upon my journey, I can see that I have grown myself and increased my network amongst my peers.

What has changed is the way I present information and engage in conversations with others in the hopes of building relationships and working effectively.

Since participating in the program, I have observed that I am more inclusive in my thinking and the various management styles which I can utilise to adapt to the situation.

I have gained a greater appreciation and understanding of many positive community organisations and groups across our region that offer so much for communities.

I have been exposed to strategic thinking and government practises I hadn’t delved into in the past. I have been inspired by initiatives that began through someone, or people caring.

The discussions that evolve at program days and the authentic sharing of personal stories has been a real highlight.

The most significant part of the journey has been the connections and inspiration I have gained from the cohort. The course has been transformational and allowed me to get out of my comfort zone, be challenged, and grow!

Engaging with the cohort and meeting inspirational leaders sparked my desire to do more within my own community. I have listened and absorbed ideas and passion and know that I am continuing to grow as an individual.

I feel I have gathered a real understanding of the current issues of the region. It has been great to be inspired by so many different presenters who have created some wonderful and sustainable community enterprises from a simple idea that has continued to grow.

The most rewarding part of being involved in the program has been the people. The cohort has been incredibly generous, welcoming and encouraging.

Through this program, I have gained confidence and self-awareness and, most importantly, recognised the value of myself, and what I bring to a role or team.

The deep feeling of belonging and the innate sense of trust that the cohort environment brings you is unique.

What has touched and changed me the most is the enduring connections that I have already made with the cohort.

I have realised my passion for making a positive impact in the world, whether it’s through small gestures to individuals, or within community groups.

My confidence and ability to talk to a wider variety of groups has improved immensely. The program has pushed me out of my comfort zone, but the feeling of belonging and trust that the cohort environment brings is rare.

I’ve recognised more about myself this year and have seen my confidence shift in my work and volunteering role, recognising my own strengths as important and valued.

AVCL’s reputation is what attracted me to the program. I knew of the diversity of speakers on offer and their widely differing fields and the active and diverse presenters who would stimulate my better understanding of our region.

The AVCLP has been unlike any other leadership program I have participated in. By far the highlight of the program thus far has been the friendships developed across the whole cohort.