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Napranum leadership workshop resounding success
by Nikki Taylor 17 October 2013
T
he second Leadership and Capability program at Napranum has been hailed a ‘resounding success’ by organisers, participants and government representatives. The three-day event, targeted at locals aged between 18 and 35, forms a key part of the Napranum community’s “Whole of Community Change Program” which was launched last year in partnership with Council and Dynamic Exchange. Workshop facilitator Annalise Jennings said she was “thrilled” with the result with a further 30 Napranum locals participating. “This program is a huge first for any indigenous community in Australia and the people of Napranum should be commended for their hands on approach to creating real change in their town,” she said. Ms Jennings traded in her corporate job in Melbourne four years ago, and has been working with Cape communities to develop
The latest round of Napranum graduates celebrating their achievements. Image supplied
the programs ever since. “I am very encouraged the communities have chosen to develop and implement their own plan for the future,” she said. “This program ignites potential in every aspect of the community from parents and school kids to leaders and elders.” Ms Jennings welcomed the continuing support of the Queensland Government. “The government’s role is one of support, not implementation if the growth is to be sustainable,” she said. Throughout the workshop participants engaged in personality profiling, up skilling, confidence building exercises, career selection as well as lessons in real leadership and personal empowerment. Participant Rachael Ara described her experience as “awesome.” “It has shown me how to identify what I want out of life and the importance of staying positive,” she said. Ms Jennings said many of the previous participants had already secured employment opportunities
as a direct result of the workshop. “Adding to that, the program has been embraced by other Cape communities including Aurukun and Mapoon who will run similar events in the coming weeks,” she said. David Kempton, Member for Cook, thanked representatives from Rio Tinto, the local council and other key stakeholders who celebrated with this year’s graduates at a special function in Weipa on Friday night “I am proud to be part of a Government committed to ensuring Aboriginal communities are given direct input into their future by creating opportunities for economic development and growth. With this opportunity comes a responsibility to leave a healthy legacy for futures generations “The State recognises a balance between community growth and economic development is the pathway to sustainable progress in indigenous towns.” The graduates are now actively seeking employment in their areas of choice. Page 1