First Nations leadership comes in many forms. It’s grounded in culture, community, and connection to Country. It values relationships over hierarchy and contribution over status. 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.
This article will help you decide if now is the right time to apply. We’ll walk you through who the program is for, what’s expected, and what you’ll gain from the experience.
Who should apply?
Milparanga Emerging is designed for First Nations leaders aged 21 and over who are at the beginning of their leadership journey. You might not call yourself a leader just yet and that’s okay.
You could be:
- Taking initiative in your community or workplace
- Helping family or mob navigate challenges
- Dreaming of creating change but unsure where to start
- Speaking up when something’s not right
- Looking for support, connection, and cultural strength
Remember, you do not need to hold a formal title. What matters is your readiness to grow, your commitment to your mob, and your desire to make a difference.
What does emerging leadership look like?
Leadership means more than leading a team or speaking in front of a crowd. This Milparanga Emerging is designed to help you learn more about how you show up as a leader, how you relate to the people around you, and how you can lead with others in mind.
Emerging leadership can present itself in many ways. It can look like organising a youth event, speaking up at a community meeting, or helping Elders access services. It’s showing care, listening well, and inspiring others by your actions. Emerging leaders often support family, advocate for change, or guide others through challenges…without ever having a formal title to do so.
You might be mentoring young people, starting a business, or holding space for healing conversations. If you’ve ever felt a pull to help, to lead by example, or to speak for those without a voice, you’re already practising emerging leadership in powerful and important ways.
What you can expect from Milparanga Emerging?
During the Milparanga Emerging Leaders Program you will spend time on Country, challenge yourself outdoors, connect deeply with others, and gain tools and skills in the following areas:
- Personal growth
Milparanga builds self-awareness, adaptability, and resilience. You’ll learn more about your strengths and how to work with others in respectful and powerful ways.
- Practical leadership tools
You’ll gain skills in communication, advocacy, and building networks. You’ll explore your values and create a vision for your community or workplace.
- Developing a strong peer network
You’ll meet other emerging First Nations leaders from across the country. These connections often lead to lasting friendships and collaborations.
- Confidence and clarity
By the end of the program, you’ll feel more equipped to take on leadership roles, challenge outdated ideas, and influence positive change.
What is expected of participants?
Milparanga Emerging is a significant opportunity and holds significant responsibility. While all participants receive scholarships covering costs to undertake the program and your necessary travel cost, 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 program 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.
What we’re looking for in candidates
We’re not looking for perfect applicants with years of leadership experience under their belts. We’re looking for people who are ready.
You might be unsure, nervous. or think others are more qualified. That’s normal. What matters is that you’re willing to learn, grow and lead with purpose.
The strongest Milparanga Emerging applicants will demonstrate:
- A genuine interest in leadership grounded in First Nations culture and community
- A willingness to try new things, including outdoor activities
- A desire to connect with others and learn from different perspectives
- A commitment to sharing what you’ve learned with others
We encourage applications from all parts of Australia, all First Nation cultural backgrounds, and all gender identities.
Still not sure if you fit the Milparanga Emerging criteria?
Ask yourself:
- Am I open to learning more about myself?
- Do I want to connect more deeply with other First Nations leaders?
- Could this experience help me step up in my community or workplace?
- Am I ready to be challenged and supported?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’re probably more ready than you think.
