A Big Week in ELGP: Connection, Insight and Governance in Action

It was a standout week for our 2026 Emerging Leaders in Governance Program (ELGP) cohort, bringing together two of the program’s most impactful experiences: our annual Networking Night and the much-anticipated Site Visits Day. Together, these moments moved learning beyond the classroom – immersing participants in real conversations, real organisations and real governance in action. 

The week of governance began on Wednesday 8 April with our ELGP Networking Night at Uplyft (formerly Wanslea). Designed to spark meaningful connection, the evening brought together the 2026 cohort, ELGP alumni, Community Partners and leaders from across the not-for-profit sector and community space. Guests toured Uplyft’s impressive new facility, were warmly welcomed by CEO, Jo Sadler and heard from Chief Strategy Officer, Taylor Lawton about Uplyft’s bold new brand, strategy and growing footprint. Closing the session, Uplyft Board Member and EYLACCB Advisory Group member, Curtis Reddell shared valued insights from his EYLACCB journey to board member.  

ELGP Founder and Project Facilitator, Alicia Curtis, reflected on the importance of relationships in governance, highlighting the depth of experience in the room – from long-standing Community Partners to alumni now serving on Boards across the sector.  

Just days later, on Saturday 11 April, the cohort stepped directly inside community organisations for Site Visits Day – one of the program’s most eye-opening experiences. Split across six host organisations, participants visited Good Sammys, Y WA Vocational School, Ruah Community Services, Sexual Health Quarters, Brightwater and SwanCare, engaging directly with senior leaders and operational staff. These visits offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at how organisations operate day-to-day, and how governance decisions translate into real services, risks and impact.  

Across the day, several clear insights emerged. Participants gained a deeper understanding of the complex services delivered by community organisations – often well beyond what they had previously assumed. They saw firsthand the scale of impact achieved with limited resources, challenging not-for-profits perspectives and reinforcing the importance of dignity, quality and strong organisational culture. Importantly, the visits highlighted why effective Boards must stay connected to operations, with directors who understand services on the ground better equipped to govern strategically and responsibly. 

Together, the Networking Night and Site Visits sparked rich reflection within the cohort about the role they can play as future Board members – not only in providing oversight, but in supporting sustainable, values-driven organisations. The week strengthened their motivation to contribute to community governance and reinforced the critical role strong Boards play in enabling impact. 

We extend our sincere thanks to Uplyft for hosting the Networking Night, and to each Community Partner who opened their doors and shared their time, knowledge and experience throughout Site Visits Day. Your leadership and generosity are what makes ELGP possible – and are helping shape the next generation of governance leaders. 

Want to make a bigger impact? 

If your organisation believes in diverse, future-focused governance, consider joining ELGP as a Community Partner. Your involvement helps build a stronger, more connected community sector. 

To learn more about the ELGP, visit the webpage.