Celebrating the Class of 2026!

On Wednesday 13 May, we came together to celebrate a milestone moment for the 2026 Emerging Leaders in Governance Program (ELGP) cohort – this event marked the completion of four months of learning, challenges, connection and growth, and recognised a group of emerging leaders ready to step confidently into governance across the community sector. 

Throughout the program, this cohort has leaned into complexity, asked thoughtful questions and shown a genuine commitment to learning what strong, values-led governance looks like it practice. Graduation Night was a chance to pause, reflect and celebrate just how far they’ve come – not only in governance knowledge, but in confidence, clarity and leadership presence. 

The evening was expertly guided by MCs Julie Bindoff and Zoe de Reus, who opened the night with a meaningful Acknowledgement of Country and set a warm engaging tone for the celebration ahead. Guests were then welcomed by Enda Fahy, CEO of Southcare, who reflected on the importance of investing in emerging leaders and the role programs like ELGP play in shaping the future of governance across the community sector. 

A highlight of the evening was hearing directly from participants as they shared their ELGP experiences. Chidananda Kamath spoke to the journey from awareness to action, reflecting on how governance learning translates into real responsibility. Courtney Carr shared insights from the program experience, while Eunice Ong offered thoughtful reflections on personal growth and leadership development throughout the program. Krunali Shah revisited the cohort’s leadership retreat, highlighting the space it created for reflection, connection and deeper learning. Rachel Messitt also contributed reflections on the journey, reinforcing the diversity of perspectives and experiences within the cohort. 

We were pleased to hear from Emma Jarvis, CEO of Palmerston, who spoke as a Community Partner, about the value of emerging leaders in governance and the importance of investing in future-focused, diverse leadership for the sector. 

The formal celebration continued as Program Facilitators Alicia Curtis and Grace Mugabe presented certificates to each graduate – a moment that recognised the commitment, courage and curiosity each participant brought to the program. 

As always, ELGP is only possible through the generous support and involvement of our Community Partners. We extend our sincere thanks to Uniting WA, Uplyft (formerly Wanslea), Good Sammys, Y WA Vocational School, Ruah Community Services, Sexual Health Quarters, Brightwater and SwanCare for opening their doors, sharing their expertise and contributing meaningfully to the cohort’s learning throughout the year. 

Graduation Night marked the end of the 2026 program – but it also marked the beginning of what comes next. The class of 2026 leaves ELGP better equipped, better connected and ready to contribute to Boards, committees and governance spaces across the community sector.  

Congratulations to our graduates. Your governance journey is just beginning, and we look forward to seeing the impact you create as you step into leadership with purpose.