The Bowen Basin Women in Leadership program, funded by the Local Buying Foundation, is off to a promising start. Launched in April 2024, the program has completed two key events, bringing together participants from across the Isaac and Central Highlands regions. With a focus on gender diversity and leadership development, this initiative aims to empower women to build confidence, leverage their strengths, and connect with local leaders through workshops, masterclasses, and mentoring.
The first workshop included 25 mentees and 26 mentors coming together for a Mentoring Orientation session in Moranbah. Participants, including women from industries and areas like Mackay, Dysart, and Middlemount, began their leadership journey by completing strengths assessments and discussing understanding personal strengths, recognising areas for growth, and identifying where participants fit within the four domains of leadership: Executer, Influencer, Relationship Builder, or Strategic Thinker.
The second workshop deepened these insights by addressing topics such as the differences between introverts and extroverts, the importance of non-verbal communication, and strategies to overcome imposter syndrome. Participants also explored ways to improve listening skills and manage the emotional dynamics that often influence workplace interactions.
The first masterclass in the program, scheduled in September, will continue to expand on these topics, continuing the program’s intent to empower current and future women leaders in the Bowen Basin.
The Bowen Basin Women in Leadership program aligns closely with the Local Buying Foundation’s commitment to fostering a future-ready workforce, and promoting diversity and inclusion in regional communities. By supporting this program, the Local Buying Foundation is investing in the growth of female leadership, recognising that gender diversity in leadership enhances decision-making, drives financial performance, and fosters innovation—key factors for sustainable regional development. The Bowen Basin stands to benefit from increased leadership diversity, and this program is designed to equip women with the tools and networks they need to lead confidently in their industries.
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Funding Approved for Bowen Basin Women in Leadership Program
26 April, 2024
The Queensland Local Buying Foundation is excited to announce funding approval for RDA Greater Whitsunday to deliver the Bowen Basin Women in Leadership program, running from April 2024 to May 2025. This initiative, under the Workforce Development funding category, fosters gender diversity in leadership roles across the Isaac and Central Highlands regions. The program will focus on developing leadership capabilities in 20-25 participants, with guidance from a similar number of mentors.
This approval is based on the immensely successful Women in Leadership series in the Mackay region delivered by RDA Greater Whitsunday’s in 2023 – also supported by the Local Buying Foundation.
Gender diversity in leadership has proven benefits, such as improved decision-making, enhanced financial performance, and fostering innovation. In the Bowen Basin, where leadership diversity remains a key area for growth, this program has the potential to create a lasting impact, not only for those directly involved but for the wider regional business community. The program includes 12 months of professional development including five full day workshops, two masterclasses and 12 months of mentoring from industry leaders, and represents a significant step toward promoting gender diversity in the workplace and contributing to the long-term development of the Bowen Basin region.
Melissa Westcott, Local Buying Foundation Chair, commented: “The Local Buying Foundation is committed to fostering a future-ready workforce that embraces diversity and inclusion. The Bowen Basin Women in Leadership program is a powerful example of how we can support the development of female leaders, ensuring they have the tools, confidence, and networks to thrive. By empowering women in leadership, we’re not only enriching the individuals involved but also driving innovation and resilience within our regional communities.”
More information and applications for participation can be found here. Applications are due by 10 May.