The Milparanga Emerging Leadership Program is for First Nations people ready to take the next step in their leadership journey on their terms and in their own way. You don’t need a formal role or a flashy title. You don’t need to be loud or outgoing.
We’re looking for candidates who:
- Are aged 21 or over and identify as a First Nations person
- Are in the early stages of their leadership journey
- Show a genuine interest in developing leadership skills and confidence
- Want to connect deeply with Culture, Country, and Community
- Are curious about who they are and how they lead
- Are ready to challenge old ideas and explore new ways of creating change
- Are willing to support others and be part of a peer network
- Are committed to giving back whether through mentoring, advocacy, cultural leadership, or community involvement
If this sounds like you or someone you know, we encourage you to consider applying. Use this article to help guide you through the Milparanga Emerging application process and put your best self forward.
How to apply
The application process is designed to be simple but give our team a clear understanding about who you are, what your experiences have been and where you’d like to make an impact in the future. Here is what you can expect.
1. Complete the online application form
This includes several written questions designed to show us:
- How you respond to discomfort or tricky situations
- Whether you’re curious and open to learning
- What you want to take away from the program
- Key moments in your story that shaped who you are
You will also be asked to submit:
- A short biography
- A high-quality headshot saved as a JPEG or similar file.
- Any personal circumstances or conditions that might impact your ability to fully participate. This information is private and only used if we need to find ways to support you.
2. Short interviews
All Milparanga Emerging applicants will be contacted with the results of their applications. Some people may be invited to a short yarn with our team to help us better understand their application.
This isn’t a test or a job interview. It’s a conversation to learn more about your story, your hopes, and whether this program is right for you at this time.
Know what’s expected of applicants before you apply
Before starting your application, take time to read the program overview. Know what’s included, what’s expected, and what the experience involves.
The Milparanga Emerging Leadership Program is a significant opportunity and holds significant responsibility. While all participants receive a scholarship covering costs to undertake the program, you will be expected to:
- Commit to the full in-person program
- Engage with the activities, including outdoor challenges
- Contribute to the group and support others
- Bring your learnings home and apply them in your community, family or workplace
Graduation from the Milparanga Emerging can only take place when a participant has completed all the requirements above. If you are uncertain about your ability to commit to all the components, please reach out to our team to discuss before submitting your application so we can identify ways to support you early.
This isn’t a retreat or a week of group-based therapy. It’s a hands-on leadership development experience. The people who get the most out of it are those who show up with curiosity, courage, and respect.
By understanding the program, you can show that you’re prepared and serious about taking part.
Be clear and honest in your responses
The application form is your chance to introduce yourself. You don’t need big words. Use your own voice. Speak from the heart.
Here are some tips to help:
- Keep it real – Be honest about who you are and what leadership means to you.
- Share your story – Talk about what drives you and what you care about.
- Show your potential – Share how the program could help you grow and contribute to others.
- Use examples – Explain how you’ve already stepped up in small or big ways.
For example, instead of saying “I’m passionate about my community,” say “I help my mob by organising youth events and regularly checking in on our Elders.”
Highlight your connection to leadership
You might not call yourself a leader out loud and that’s okay. Leadership looks different for everyone. When writing your application, think about times when you have:
- Guided or supported others
- Spoken up for what’s right
- Helped organise something important
- Been a role model to friends, family, or community
These are all signs of leadership. Even if it feels small, include it. Our Milparanga Emerging Leadership Program team are looking for people who are already making a difference, even if quietly.
Talk about what you’ll do with the knowledge you’ll gain
Milparanga Emerging is about more than self-development. It’s about taking what you’ve learned and giving back to your community.
In your application, share your ideas. How could this experience help you make a difference? Where would you apply the skills?
Examples might include:
- Starting a support group or local project
- Mentoring other young people
- Advocating for change at work or in your community
- Sharing cultural knowledge or storytelling
Show how you will turn your growth into action.
Don’t worry about being perfect
The best Milparanga Emerging applications aren’t the ones with the fanciest words. They’re the ones that are real, thoughtful, and show growth.
It’s okay to say:
- “I’m still figuring out my strengths.”
- “I haven’t done a leadership course before.”
- “I want to grow in confidence.”
What matters is your willingness to step forward and give it a go.
Before submitting, ask a friend, mentor, or family member to read your application. They might see strengths you didn’t mention. They can also help check spelling, grammar, or anything that needs to be clearer.
Checklist before you submit you application
- Have you answered every question clearly?
- Have you used your own voice and shared real stories?
- Have you explained why Milparanga is right for you now?
- Have you shown how you’ll give back to your community?
- Have you uploaded a professional headshot and biography?
- Have you included any details that might affect your participation?
Once everything looks good, hit submit!
Final tip… be proud of your story!
Your journey, your strengths, and your experiences matter. Milparanga is a space where all of this is welcomed and respected.
Even if you’re nervous, applying is a step towards something powerful. You never know where it could lead.
Apply now and take the first step.
If you need help with your application, email us at info@rural-leaders.org.au. We’re here to support you.
