Young people across Greater Geelong are being encouraged to take the opportunity to sit at board management level, thanks to City of Greater Geelong Council’s ‘Youth on Board’ initiative.
The program was implemented earlier this year, with a diverse range of organisations supporting the program so far, including Hope Bereavement, Ocean Mind, South Barwon Football Netball Club and Encompass Community Services.
Council says it is now looking for more organisations eager to add young people to their boards through the program.
“Well-run organisations have boards comprised of experienced and skilled people, providing a great opportunity for these young people to learn from experts and for local clubs and organisations to develop our next generation of leaders,” said Mayor, Trent Sullivan.
“Adding an energetic and enthusiastic young person to a board can help an organisation reach new people in the community, increase diversity and gain new perspectives from a different generation”
The program supports the newly released Victorian Youth Strategy 2022 to 2027, which aims to see more young people under 25 represented on Victorian Government boards.
Young people and organisations are supported through the program, including with Governance training
“There are unique skills for the young person to learn about being part of a board with the opportunity to oversee an organisation or club,” said Deputy Chair of the Diversity, Inclusion and LGBTIQ+ portfolio, Jim Mason.
“But we also know that there is great benefit to a participating organisation with the addition of a young person who can contribute to the diversity at board level.
“At the same time as assisting a young person in their leadership journey, a participating organisation can benefit by having a youth voice in the decision-making process,” he said.
