Torres Strait Young Leaders Program
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If you’re from the Torres Strait, Seisia or Bamaga and you’re ready to explore what leadership looks like for you, the Torres Strait Young Leaders Program is a space to begin.
You don’t need a title or a plan. Just the desire to step forward.
Eligibility
For young people 18+ living in the Torres Strait, Seisia or Bamaga.
You don’t need a formal role - just a commitment to community and curiosity about what’s possible.
Commitment
You’ll need to attend all five days, including travel days.
Investment
Scholarships are fully funded by the Torres Strait Regional Authority and includes travel costs to attend the program.
Participants will need to cover the cost of their own incidentals and meals during transit.
Participants will need to cover the cost of their own incidentals and meals during transit.
Could this be your next step?
If you care about the future of the Torres Strait and want to play a part in shaping it, this program is for you.
Maybe you’ve been called a leader by others, even if you’re not sure what that means yet. Maybe you can see the change your community needs—but you’re not sure where to begin.
The Torres Strait Young Leaders Program is for people who show up for their community. You might be part of a local organisation, helping on a committee, supporting Elders or young people, or simply someone people turn to when they need a hand.
If you’re ready to grow your voice, connect with others, and explore what leadership looks like in the Torres Strait, we encourage you to step forward.
Activities you’ll engage in on program
Hear from First Nations leaders
Build self-awareness and people skills
Take on outdoor challenges
Explore your path as a community leader
Learn communication and advocacy skills
Conversations that will honour existing skills and knowledge, as well as provoke thoughts and assumptions
What you’ll take away from the Torres Strait Young Leaders Program
Build the courage to speak up and take action
Learn how to feel strong in yourself and take steps to make change.
Strengthen your voice as an advocate for positive change
Find the words to speak up for your community and what you care about.
Discover different ways to lead and influence
See that leadership can look different for everyone—and find the way that suits you.
Connect with others who care deeply about the future of the Torres Strait
Meet other young people who want to help their communities grow strong.
A long-standing commitment
ARLF’s partnership with the Torres Strait Regional Authority dates back to 2008. Our first Torres Strait Islander participant joined the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP) in 2003. Since then, we’ve invested in programs that support local capability—including ARLP, TRAIL, and Milparanga.
The Torres Strait represents our longest and deepest place-based leadership investment. The extraordinary network of Torres Strait Islander alumni includes women and young people who are shaping the region’s future with courage, care, and commitment.
Delivered in partnership with
This program is supported by the Torres Strait Regional Authority and delivered by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation.
Apply Now
Start your journey to join exclusive access to our diverse, national alumni network of more than 3,000 rural, regional, and remote leaders. Surround yourself with like-minded leaders who are just as dedicated to making a positive impact and facilitating changes in their communities as you are.
Frequently asked questions
Have a question that we haven’t answered below? Get in touch with our friendly team. We’re happy to help.
Yes, this program is facilitated by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and facilitators and the content is designed with a cultural lens.
Scholarships are fully funded by the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA). There is currently no participant contribution. However, participants will need to cover any incidentals and meals during transit.
Yes, you will receive an itemised packing list a few weeks out from coming on program, and we can assist with items you may not be able to get in your community.
Yes, it may. Our programs are intentionally designed to foster deep learning, resilience, and growth by including elements of challenge and uncertainty. These experiences are created with inclusivity in mind, ensuring a safe space to navigate discomfort. The uncertainty is deliberate—it mimics the unpredictable challenges leaders often face, helping you develop the skills to adapt and thrive in the face of the unknown.
We have first aid officers on the program to assist as your safety is paramount.
We provide an immersive program experience therefore mobile phones may be removed for periods to enhance your engagement and experience. Mobile phone reception may not be available during some periods on the program. Your family will be provided with contact information in the case of an emergency and program facilitators will be notified.
We kindly ask that you do not share any information about program locations and activities on any social media platforms.
We ask that you make prior arrangements with your workplace and inform them that you will not be able to work during the period of the program.
Future leaders are the bridge
How do we lead with reconciliation in mind?
An experiential learning program
At the ARLF, we’re big on experiential learning – learning programs that immerse you and help you learn and grow through learned lessons. You’ll hear stories from Indigenous leaders, visit culturally significant sites to learn about Indigenous history and legacies, and meet and hear stories from Milparanga alumni.
Milparanga Emerging Leadership incorporates outdoor activities. You can expect to be pushed outside of your comfort zone with activities that help you get to know yourself better and make you a better communicator. We’ll take you by surprise most days. Not knowing exactly what you will be doing each day is all part of the experience.