Opportunity for Queensland’s future First Nations Leaders

• Nominations are now open for Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program.
• The program is an opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Queensland, aged 18–25, to come together to strengthen their leadership skills, and drive future opportunities in their local communities.

This is the 20th anniversary of the program which has helped 720 young First Nations leaders.  

The Miles Government recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples play a pivotal role in driving positive outcomes within their communities, and the state more broadly.  

The Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program develops First Nations young people’s  leadership and self-development skills to support their future professional and personal pathways.

It empowers young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Queensland to take leadership roles in their communities, fostering lasting cultural and professional connections.

The  seven-day program will be held in Brisbane in November 2024 Travel, meals and accommodation are provided for successful applicants, as well as life-long friendships and networks within an inspiring, culturally safe, and supportive community.

Applications close on Friday 13 September 2024 - for more information visit www.qld.gov.au/qiylp.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Treaty, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Communities and the Arts Leeanne Enoch:

“Young people are not just an important part of the state’s future – but an important part of our communities today,” Ms Enoch said.

“We are calling on passionate First Nations young people and emerging leaders who are focused on change and learning new skills, to join the 2024 Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program .

“This opportunity for self-development, leadership and professional skills will empower participants on their personal leadership journey.

“Co-designed with previous program graduates and First Nations leaders, it builds important cultural and professional connections to create positive and lasting change.

Quotes attributable to Phillip Jose, 2023 Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program Alumni

“I am a proud Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander man, with connections to the Jalanji clan from the Eastern Kuku-Yalanji peoples in the FNQ Daintree region through my grandfather, and also to Badu and Darnley Islands in the Torres Strait through my Aka (grandmother),” Mr Jose said.

“What attracted me to the program was my desire to learn and grow. I had also heard many great things from previous people who attended and also my big cousin mentor who was assisting the program.

“The most impactful moment was when I stepped into parliament and had the opportunity to carry my grandfather’s name through those doors, in a powerful place where government once prayed on the downfall of my people. I was given the opportunity to speak and use my voice when my people were once not given this same opportunity.”

”Explainer/fast facts and/or further information:

For more information and to apply visit www.qld.gov.au/qiylp.

ENDS

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