I’m the first to admit “Women only” programs make me feel a bit icky and I am conscious of not swinging the pendulum too far to over-correct the historical disadvantages of women towards the exclusion of men from participation. However, the statistics still point alarmingly towards the underrepresentation of women in key decision-making roles across almost all industries in the Australian workforce. While women make up half of the employees in the 2020-21 WGEA dataset (51%), women comprise only:
● 19.4% of CEOs
● 32.5% of key management positions
● 33% of board members
● 18% of board chairs.
Women can and do face different challenges to their male co-workers. Furthermore, today’s leaders face challenges their predecessors never had, not least a complex global marketplace with ongoing economic, political, and environmental uncertainty and an alpha and millennial generation that demands a new style of leadership.
The Regional Development Australia - Greater Whitsunday branch, recognised these challenges but also the regional benefits of cultivating a network of resilient, visionary leaders. The Local Buying Foundation funded a 6-month Women In Leadership pilot program that linked 25 mentees with mentors who have significant leadership experience, coupled with a face-to-face program aimed to develop self-awareness, leadership skills and confidence in the participants.
It's important for women who aspire to progress into leadership roles to have role models to inspire them. I was privileged to be selected for the pilot program and it’s been a profound opportunity to develop my skills, strengthen my network and learn from my generous and experienced mentor, Robert Cocco (CEO RDA-GW).
The pilot program is a huge success with many of the mentees/mentors voluntarily continuing their mentorship.
There is undeniable value in having a mentor, or being a mentor, and I encourage you to seek out a role model whether that be within your organisation, a mentoring program such as the Mackay Regional Council-Resource Industry Network ‘Mackay Mentoring Network’ or an associate whom you admire.
Self and professional development are so important. When you regularly develop yourself, you become better equipped to take control of your life and create a future that you desire.
Cr Michelle Green
Mackay Regional Council
Robert Cocco and Cr Michelle Green
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