Are you thinking about applying for the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP)? This transformative program requires more than just meeting basic eligibility criteria; it calls for a deep commitment to personal growth, community impact and continuous learning. Here’s how to determine if you are ready to embark on this journey:
Are you committed to contribute?
In the ARLP you are learning as part of a group. Hence, the program values collective progress, not individual achievements. Your readiness to support the learning and growth of others is crucial to advancing in this environment. It is important that you understand how your participation affects the overall learning experience. Be prepared to engage actively and positively with your peers.
Are you open to change?
Despite positive interactions, your existing narratives will likely be challenged. It is important that you are willing to confront and change old ways of thinking, including self-doubt and deficit mindsets. Coming into the ARLP ready to gain confidence and welcome new viewpoints means you will leave with the most meaningful personal and professional growth.
What is your leadership potential?
While the ARLP is an established leadership program, it is as much (if not more) about your potential for leadership than your current role or status. People with big ideas, wanting to create change in communities and industries and the realisation that they need new tools and strategies to bring them to life get the most out of the learning experiences and networks they build as part of the program. We know that regional, rural and remote Australian communities and industries sit at the frontline of challenges and a lot of change. If you are someone who is seeking to take and influence action for positive outcomes, ARLP might be a vehicle to help you get started.
Are you committed to continuous learning?
The Australian Rural Leadership Foundation embraces life-long learning. If you have done, seen and know it all, this program is not for you. If you believe that learning in leadership and life never ends and that learning doesn’t stop after the program ends, you will enjoy this program and make the most out of what it has to offer. And if you have been in leadership roles for a while, ensure that you are open to stepping out of your current leadership practices and exploring other ways.
Do you see problems or obstacles?
If you see beyond surface-level problems and have identified obstacles, you are on the right path. You have realised that overcoming these obstacles requires working with others and you are ready to engage in collaborative problem-solving and go deep to solve complex problems. If you only see problems as they are without seeking solutions or new perspectives, the ARLP may not be the right fit for you.
Can you be open and vulnerable?
You will get the most out of the program by being authentic, willing to be open, honest and vulnerable in your interactions. If you have a genuine interest in listening to others and learning from their experiences, your openness will enrich both your own and others’ learning experiences.
Ready to apply?
If these guidelines resonate with you, and you are excited about the prospect of challenging yourself and contributing to the growth of others, then you might be ready to take on the ARLP.
Remember, this program is not just about what you can gain, but also about what you can give back to your community, industry and peers. Your journey in the ARLP will be one of shared learning, mutual growth and lasting impact.
