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This article was published on Monday, 19 May, 2025. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Emerging leaders begin their journey with the 2025 Community Leadership Program

In Summary

The 2025 Community Leadership Program was officially launched on Wednesday 14 May at the Peter Copulos Community Centre in Kialla.
Now in its twelfth year, the Council-funded program welcomed 20 new participants to develop leadership skills through workshops and mentoring.
Topics include public speaking, goal setting, resilience, communication and understanding community diversity.
Mayor Councillor Shane Sali and Councillor Sam Spinks, both past participants, reflected on the program’s powerful impact on personal growth and community involvement.

Now in its twelfth year, the Council-funded program welcomed 20 community participants who will take part in a series of workshops and coaching sessions designed to build leadership skills and strengthen local community involvement.

Delivered by Shane Garner Consulting, the program runs from May to August and includes seven in-person workshops, online mentoring, and a graduation event later in the year. Key topics of the program include public speaking, goal setting, communication preferences, resilience, and understanding community and diversity.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor and past participant, Councillor Shane Sali, welcomed the new cohort at the launch and reflected on the value of grassroots leadership development.

“This program gives people the confidence, tools and connections to take an active leadership role in their community,” he said.

“It’s about supporting locals who are ready to step up, make a contribution and lead meaningful change in their communities. Welcoming this new group of emerging leaders in 2025 is a proud moment for Council.”

Councillor Sam Spinks, Poplar Ward, also a past participant, reflected on the impact the program had on her leadership journey.

“I genuinely believe this program changed the trajectory of my life. I met one of my dearest friends, I worked and learnt with people from so many different walks of life, and I developed practical skills both personally and professionally,” she said.

Council now looks forward to supporting this year’s participants throughout their leadership journey as they work towards their graduation in September 2025.

Find out more information on the Community Leadership Program here.