The Torres Strait Women’s Leadership Program is for women aged 21 and over who live in the Torres Strait or Northern Peninsula Area (NPA). It is for women who want to step up and make a difference.
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.
How do I know if I should apply?
Whether you’re already helping out in your community or just starting to think about what’s next, this program will help you build confidence, meet others, and learn new skills.
This program isn’t about having a title or a formal leadership role. It’s about who you are and what you care about.
If you:
- Care about your community and want to help shape its future
- Want to grow your confidence to speak up and be heard
- Feel unsure what the next step is, but are ready to explore it
- Want to connect with others who care deeply about the Torres Strait
Then this program could be for you.
What if I don’t have a formal leadership role?
Leadership can show up in many ways. It might look like organising a youth event, speaking at a community meeting, or helping Elders access services.
It’s showing care, listening well, and inspiring others by your actions.
Many emerging leaders support family, advocate for change, or guide others through challenges without ever holding a formal title. 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 leadership.
If this sounds like you, you’re already on your leadership journey.
What can I expect from the Torres Strait Women’s Leadership Program?
This program will give you skills to help you grow in confidence and purpose. It’s a safe space, designed by women for women.
The program takes place across two in-person sessions, each running for five days. You must attend both sessions in full to graduate.
Over both sessions you will take part in group activities, storytelling, and conversations that:
- Help you understand yourself and how you work with others
- Improve your communication and advocacy skills
- Explore your leadership values and ways to influence change
- Honour your lived experience while introducing new ideas
These activities may stretch you but that’s how growth happens. You won’t be alone, your facilitators and your cohort will walk beside you, creating a supportive space for reflection, sharing, and learning.
This is a culturally safe, strengths-based program. Your identity, community, and experience will be respected and celebrated.
Do I need to pay to attend this program?
The Torres Strait Women’s Leadership Program is delivered by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation and fully funded by the Torres Strait Regional Authority. We work closely with local partners to ensure the program reflects the needs and strengths of Torres Strait women.
All program and travel costs will be covered. You will need to pay for your own meals and incidentals during travel.
What is expected of me?
The Torres Strait Women’s Leadership Program is a significant opportunity and holds real responsibility. While scholarships cover the program and travel, you will be expected to:
- Commit to the full in-person program across both sessions
- Engage with all activities, including outdoor challenges
- Contribute to the group and support others
- Bring your learning home and apply it in your community, family, or workplace
Graduation can only take place once all requirements are completed.
If you’re unsure whether you can commit to every part, please contact our team before applying. We may be able to offer support.
This isn’t a retreat or a week of group-based therapy. It’s a hands-on leadership experience. Those who benefit most come with curiosity, courage, and respect.
What does an ideal candidate look like?
We’re not looking for perfect applicants or people with years of experience. We’re looking for people who are ready.
You might feel unsure or nervous. You might think others are more qualified. That’s normal. What matters is that you’re open to learning, growing, and leading with purpose.
Strong applicants will show:
- A genuine interest in leadership grounded in culture and community
- A willingness to try new things, including outdoor activities
- A desire to connect and learn from different perspectives
- A commitment to share your learning with others
What do I need to check before I apply?
Ask yourself:
- Am I open to learning more about myself?
- Am I ready to be challenged?
- Could this experience help me step up in my community or workplace?
- Can I commit to being away from my family, community, or work to attend all 10 days?
If you answered yes to all of these questions, you’re ready to apply.
