Inspiring stories and bright ideas filled the Multiplex at the first Young Leader’s Summit for the Bundaberg Region.
Students from across the region attended the event, delivered by the Australian School of Entrepreneurship (ASE), to hear from inspiring local leaders.
ASE co-founder Tionne Young said the program aimed to help young people learn valuable life skills.
“We run these all over Australia, especially in smaller towns, and it’s just a high energy way for young people to learn about leadership, learn about themselves, set some goals [and] create some community action plans,” Tionne said.
“They hear from local leaders and entrepreneurs and get to ask their questions directly, meet them, take photos and connect with other young people.”
Tionne said the program aimed to show participants that their age was not a barrier to pursuing their ideas.
“I want them to understand that it doesn’t matter how young they are, if they want to start something, if they want to do something, they can and hopefully they learn some tools to put things into action,” she said.
“If they see a gap, if they see a problem in their everyday life, they can do something about it instead of waiting until they’re older or feel more qualified.”
Bundaberg State High School year 9 student Georgia Gatto said she had enjoyed hearing the speaker’s stories and experiences, as well as meeting other attendees.
“At the start we had a beautiful introduction, so we got to speak, meet and greet, and have a nice chat to a variety of different levels and grades,” Georgia said.
“I’ve enjoyed talking to our speaker and understanding all the different opportunities there are.
“They’ve shown us different ways people have actually experienced leadership and entrepreneurship.
“They’re helping us get outside of our comfort zone and understand what a real leader is.”
The students were also challenged to develop their own entrepreneurial skills and leadership qualities through hands-on sessions throughout the day.
The Young Leaders Summit was hosted by the Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC) and delivered in collaboration with the Australian School of Entrepreneurship, supported by Bundaberg Regional Council’s Bundaberg Jobs Commitment program.
