The Fairley Leadership Program 2024 is under way, with several emerging leaders from the north-east community taking part, including two from Benalla.
Benalla Rural City Council has selected two passionate employees to take part in the program with the participation of Nathan Gasperoni and Kat Hauptmann.
Council’s environmental sustainability coordinator Nathan Gasperoni was looking forward to embracing the opportunities the program would present.
“I see this program as a huge opportunity to further my skills in working within the community and to also further my leadership capabilities,” Mr Gasperoni said.
“Both of which will allow me to perform at a higher level at work within the community and within society as a whole.
“I have also spoken with a few previous participants of this program and similar programs and have been encouraged to put my hand up should the opportunity be available.”
Administration and customer relations officer at Benalla Art Gallery Kat Hauptmann said she sees the Fairley Leadership Program as an opportunity to extend her skills and confidence.
“I am committed to taking a leap outside of my comfort zone and fostering personal and professional growth in terms of confidence and leadership skills,” Ms Hauptmann said.
“I believe that effective leadership requires a deep understanding of the community and its place in the larger region.”
As a passionate member of the Benalla Art Gallery team, Ms Hauptmann said she is excited by the vision of the gallery’s redevelopment and its aspiration to become the meeting point of the north-east, promoting arts and social connectivity.
“I believe that participating in this leadership course will open doors to creating valuable connections within the region and, therefore, contribute to this vision’s realisation,” she said.
“My experience working closely with local artists and volunteers has given me a strong foundation in collaboration and community-building, which I also believe would be valuable for me to share with other Fairley Leadership Program participants.”
The Fairley Leadership Program is operated by Goulburn Murray Community Leadership.
It provides an opportunity for people to develop leadership skills, explore the major issues facing the region and assist in positive change.
Each year, the Fairly Leadership Program is offered to up to 24 inspiring regional leaders.