The Torres Strait Regional Authority’s (TSRA) sponsorship candidate, Mr Jack Kepa has graduated from the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP), in Canberra on Thursday 17 October 2019.
Mr Kepa, a proud Tudulaig from the Maguni Malu Country of the Kulkalgal Nation, is the tenth TSRA sponsored participant to graduate from the program.
Jacks leadership pathway started from voluntary work as a community champion working closely with the Queensland Police Service to strategise and work on solutions to address domestic and family violence, which inspired him to apply for the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP).
The TSRA Chairperson, Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, said the partnership with the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation’s program, is now in its 10th year, which is evidence of the TSRA’s commitment to developing strong leaders for the future of the region.
“The Australian Rural Leadership Foundation’s program aims to develop informed, capable and ethical leaders who are committed to working together to progress the interests of regional Australia,” Mr Stephen said.
“The TSRA is proud to have supported Jack on the 15-months program in 2018, where he joined a group of 30 young leaders from a diverse range of industries and organisations, after being chosen through the national selection process.
“I congratulate Jack and his cohort of future leaders in achieving success in their studies and look forward to observing his leadership journey.
“The TSRA selection process for the ARLP is also highly competitive and candidates selected are based on their motivation, inspiration and leadership experiences.
“I encourage anyone interested in leadership within their community or the region to connect with us and find out more about the program.”
Mr Kepa was full of encouragement about what the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP) for aspiring leaders in the Torres Strait region.
“The ARLP was a life-changer for me and I would recommend this program to others who are seeking personal and career development,” Mr Kepa said
“I applied for the program because I saw the opportunity to demonstrate strong leadership and have a voice that will advocate for the people of my community.
“I have been approached many times by my people to run for leadership in positions, because they see me as a potential leader that can make a difference in my community.
“It was an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and to grow as a person and a leader, whilst interacting and learning from other influential people in the program.
“I couldn’t have done it without the assistance of the TSRA and I am grateful for the financial support and encouragement that I have received.”
For further information please contact the TSRA Governance and Leadership Programme on 07 4069 0700 or info@tsra.gov.au.