Project snapshot
Alignment with RDA strategy
- Skills
Alignment with RDA strategy
- Skills
Building stronger regional leadership
Now in its 3rd year, our Inspired Leadership program is a dynamic 6-month program that continues to strengthen leadership skills and foster meaningful connections across our regional communities.
Leadership in regional communities is built on trust, shared purpose and a fundamental connection to place. The Inspired Leadership program recognises this and supports people from all backgrounds, identities and stages of life to step into leadership roles with confidence and authenticity.
Through hands-on learning and peer connection, participants explore new ways of leading that are grounded in community and shaped by the real challenges and opportunities of regional life. Inspired Leadership creates space for meaningful connection and a deep appreciation of local knowledge and culture.
Inspired Leadership creates space for meaningful connection and a deep appreciation of local knowledge and culture.
Steve Shotton, Director of Regional Development, RDA AHFKI
These kinds of experiences thrive in regional communities, where relationships and place shape leadership in unique ways.
Set against the stunning landscapes of the Ngarrindjeri, Kaurna, and Peramangk peoples, and the bustling energy of our regional communities, each session invites reflection, growth, and connection to develop new insights and perspectives.
Leadership grounded in community
There is no single path into leadership, and this year’s Inspired Leadership cohort reflects that diversity. The 17 participants in this year’s program include quiet achievers, cultural facilitators, community advocates, entrepreneurs, educators and health professionals.
Spanning multiple generations, some participants in this year’s cohort already hold senior positions, while others are stepping into leadership roles for the first time.
Many have never seen themselves represented in leadership spaces — until now.
There is also a wide range of life experiences across the group, including people from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, LGBTQI+ identities, culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those with lived experience of disability.
I believe that true leadership is measured not only by personal success but by the success we nurture in others. By mentoring future changemakers, championing diversity, and fostering a culture of innovation, I aim to create lasting impact far beyond my immediate sphere of influence.
2025 participant, Dane Wilden, Adelaide Hills
What connects them, and what came through their applications, was a shared expression that regional leadership should be more collaborative, more inclusive, and more connected to people and place.
Our participants shared goals that included mentoring young people, amplifying underrepresented voices, creating safer community spaces and stepping into board roles. They bring care, courage, clarity, and a belief that strong leadership starts with showing up as your full self.
I’m passionate about connecting people and ideas. I see myself stepping further into roles where I can influence strategy, advocate for regional voices, and help others grow in their confidence and capability. Whether it’s through mentoring, marketing, or leading region-wide projects, I want to keep creating work that has impact, purpose, and heart.
2025 participant, Chloe Bagshaw, Fleurieu Peninsula
The RDA AHFKI Inspired Leadership 2025 Program is once again delivered by the co-directors of Newday Leadership, Katrina Webb and Matthew Wright-Simon, along with a team of expert facilitators.
This program, provided by Regional Development Australia, is generously funded by the Government of South Australia as part of the Regional Leadership Development Program (RLDP).
