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The Emerging Directors Program develops the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander directors of tomorrow. Over ten months, participants learn how boards work, practise with an experienced First Nations mentor and observe real board meetings. No board experience needed. No cost to take part.
Join a program designed to inspire and nurture talented Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals who aspire to lead in governance and make a lasting impact.
The Emerging Directors Program equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and networks to thrive as effective directors. Through hands-on learning and mentorship, you’ll gain insights into contemporary governance practices, enhance your leadership capabilities, and connect with a community of First Nations professionals.
Learn from accomplished First Nations directors, engage in real-world boardroom scenarios, and explore critical issues shaping organisations. This is more than a program, it’s a pathway to building confidence, influence, and leadership for a stronger future.
Invest in yourself and be part of a movement advancing Indigenous leadership and governance excellence.
AIGI’s Emerging Directors Program provides
1. Support, mentorship, and fostering professional development for emerging leaders in governance.
2. Hands-on learning opportunities through observing and participating in effective governance practices
3. Exposure to culturally empowering networks, with the guidance of your assigned mentor, and access to valuable networking opportunities.
4. Education and professional development through training and workshop content.
Key Information
The Emerging Directors Program develops the next generation of capable First Nations directors, strengthening Indigenous governance through education, mentorship, and culturally empowering practices. Participants will gain the knowledge, skills, and networks to excel as governance leaders, contributing to the long-term sustainability of Indigenous organisations and making a meaningful impact across the broader Australian landscape.
About You
You are eligible to apply if you:
- identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
- are 18 or older
- live in Australia, in a city or a regional, rural, remote or very remote community
- have no board role yet, or have been a board director for less than 12 months
- can attend the key dates, in person and online.
You do not need formal governance experience.
Key Features
Mentorship:
- Six sessions with an experienced First Nations director, including preparation for your board observations and a conversation about your next steps.
Board Observation:
- Observe at least two real board meetings.
Workshops & Training:
- A two-day in-person launch in February, ten online sessions from March to June, and a two-day in-person closing event in November.
Networking:
- Peers, mentors, host boards and sponsors during the program, then the alumni network.
AIGI books and pays for travel and accommodation for the in-person events. There is no fee to take part.
Application process
- Apply: Answer four short questions in writing, or by video or voice recording.
- Eligibility check: We confirm your application is complete and you meet the criteria.
- Assessment: A panel of AIGI staff assesses every application against four criteria. Motivation, leadership potential, community and skills.
- Outcome: We will then inform you of the outcome of your application.
- Onboarding: You will then be invited to attend a pre-program information session.
“The Emerging Directors Program has genuinely been the most fulfilling thing I have experienced, and I am incredibly grateful to AIGI for the opportunity.”
Thomas Squire – Participant, Emerging Directors Program
Organisations can sponsor a participant in 2027, either someone they nominate or an applicant selected by AIGI.
Contact edp@aigi.org.au for the sponsorship package.
FAQ
What topics are covered in the program?
Key topics include (but are not limited to):
- Two-way governance and Indigenous governance excellence
- Roles and responsibilities of directors (including legal duties)
- Decision-making
- Strategic planning
- Financial literacy for directors
- Risk management
- Meetings and minutes
How long is the program, and how is it delivered?
Ten months, from February to November 2027. Onboarding is 3 February 2027 The launch event is two days in person on 3 and 4 March 2027. Ten online learning sessions run Wednesdays from March to June. You meet your mentor at an online midway event on 28 July 2027. Mentoring and board observations run from July to November. The closing event and graduation are two days in person on 24 and 25 November 2027.
Are there any assessments or assignments in the program?
The program includes practical activities, such as:
- Case studies
- Group discussions
- Governance simulations i.e. mock board meetings
These are designed to reinforce learning but are not graded. There are no formal exams or assignments.
What type of boards or roles does this program prepare participants for?
The program is tailored to prepare participants for a variety of governance roles, including:
- Boards of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations
- Community organisations and not-for-profits
- Advisory committees
- Corporate boards
How does the program accommodate participants from remote areas?
The program offers:
- Online learning modules accessible from anywhere with an internet connection
- Supported travel and accommodation for in person sessions
Program Applications & Eligibility
How do I apply for the program?
Apply online by the applications closing date. Tell us about yourself, then answer four selection questions. Each answer is up to 150 words in writing, or up to 60 seconds by video or voice recording. The applicant guide explains what we look for.
Who is eligible to participate in the program?
You are eligible to apply if you:
- identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
- are 18 or older
- live in Australia, in a city or a regional, rural, remote or very remote community
- have no board role yet, or have been a board director for less than 12 months
- can attend the key dates, in person and online.
You do not need formal governance experience.
Can I join if I am already a director?
- Yes, if you have been a board director for less than 12 months. The program is designed for people early in governance. If you have more experience, AIGI offers other governance training that may suit you better.
Post Program
What happens if I need to withdraw from the program?
Tell your AIGI contact as early as possible. Deferral to a later cohort may be possible.
For further information or assistance, please contact Kendal Fairweather at:
Email: edp@aigi.org.au
Phone: 0475 780 460
Emerging Directors Program updates
Subscribe to AIGI's mailing list to get notified of program updates and when applications open.
