About the Program

In the Barossa, Gawler, Light, and Adelaide Plains regions, our communities are navigating a range of challenges and opportunities.

The Empowered Leaders Program is a course comprised of 7 sessions that will equip people with the skills, knowledge, and connections to lead our community.

Delivered by RDABGLAP in partnership with the Leaders Institute of South Australia, and funded by PIRSA, this program is tailored to empower people to make a lasting impact on the future of our region.

Key focus areas of the program include:

  • Volunteer Management: Practical strategies to engage and retain volunteers.
  • Self-Awareness: Tools to understand and leverage personal strengths.
  • Navigating Resistance to Change: Approaches for handling opposition constructively.
  • Succession Planning: Guidance on preparing the next generation of leaders.
  • Enhanced Engagement and Influence: Techniques to connect with the community.
  • Inclusive Practices: Methods to build diverse, welcoming environments.

This program provides community leaders with focused, practical skills to meet local needs effectively.

We launched the program in November 11 after an application process.

A banner image showing diverse people smiling and discussing, with the title ‘Empowered Leaders Program’ and logos of Regional Development Australia, Government of South Australia, and Leaders Institute of South Australia
Alison Sanger, a woman wearing a black vest and sunglasses on her head, with the quote: ‘Be it paid employment or volunteering, there are times when you feel “I wonder why I’m doing this”. Just talking it through with other people makes you realise - well now I do know why I’m doing this - and it’s worth persevering with.’

Eligibility

  • You live, work, or identify with the Barossa, Gawler, Light, or Adelaide Plains region, including those with ties to Ngadjuri, Peramangk, or Kaurna Country.
  • You are over 18 years of age.
  • You have a strong passion for improving your community.
  • You are eager to develop your leadership skills, whether or not you hold a formal leadership position.
  • You bring a diverse background and perspective—where your unique experiences, including those related to ability, age, race, gender, culture, and economic status, are welcomed and valued.

Cost

The program is valued at $3,200, but thanks to funding from PIRSA, participants pay just $320.

Learning Topics

Enhanced Leadership Skills
Participants will develop essential leadership competencies, including strategic thinking, governance, and inclusivity. Tools like the TICK personality assessment will foster self-awareness and confidence in their leadership style.

Stronger Community Connections
The program facilitates meaningful relationships among participants, creating a network of collaboration and support. Through the Community Action Initiative, participants apply their learning to real-world issues, driving tangible improvements in the community.

Strategic Planning Abilities
Participants will gain the skills to create and implement effective strategic plans, both for their organisations and their personal leadership journeys. They will also learn techniques for leading change and managing resistance.

Resource and Funding Management
Practical skills in securing funding, writing successful grant applications, and managing resources effectively are key components of the program.

Effective Communication Skills
Participants will enhance their ability to deliver impactful presentations, engage audiences, and influence others through storytelling and mindful communication.

Long-Term Personal and Professional Growth
The program supports participants in creating a personalised learning plan for ongoing growth and connects them with an alumni network to sustain their leadership journey.

Jack Gill, a man wearing a blue suit and tie, smiling with the quote: ‘It was really valuable, informative and helped me grow my skills. I’m constantly referring back to the course materials.’