West Coast community members have been undertaking a unique program empowering them to make positive contributions to their region.
Leading Change in the West was a development opportunity offered by the Tasmanian Leaders organisation with the University of Tasmania’s support.
Since commencing in November last year, it has helped equip 17 participants with new skills and confidence to transform their local place further.
Those who took part engaged in a design-thinking process led by Don Thomas, working in teams to brainstorm a project that would benefit the region.
This activity culminated with a presentation evening on Wednesday, 26 February, where groups shared their ideas and experiences.
Angela Driver from Tasmanian Leaders said she was very pleased by the quality and diversity of people who had expressed interest in participating.
“Applicants ranged from artists through to people working at the local bank, council, and in education and health. They were from a wide geographical cross-section, and many of the towns were represented,” Ms Driver said.
“The level of engagement was extraordinary; everyone was there to learn about their region, themselves as leaders and were keen to give back to their communities through their design-thinking projects.
“Each project responded to a deep need within the community and were unique and specific to the West Coast region.
“They included scoping the establishment of a newspaper to connect the various local towns, a program increasing local awareness about the value of tourism and a volunteer expo to address declining membership in community associations.
“The passion of the West Coast was infectious. We enjoyed our time in the community and would love to offer the program again there or in another region.”
Participant Rebecca Pitt, who works in the local tourism sector, said her experience had been a rewarding one.
“I took a lot away from the program. We had the opportunity to engage with different groups from across the community, including schools and also industries which have been operating on the West Coast for a long time,” Ms Pitt said.
“My group developed the project #smilewest to help our young people develop a better understanding of the significance of our community and the tourism industry working together for a strong economic future.”
Joel Gray, who works for the local council, said his team’s volunteer expo project aimed to empower youth to be confident, resilient community contributors.
“Not only did I learn more about my community and the people here, but it also gave me insight into the issues we are facing in our region,” Mr Gray said.
“The program also showed me a small idea could have an impact, and what a group of like-minded individuals can achieve.”
University of Tasmania Cradle Coast campus General Manager Danielle Kidd said the outcomes of the leadership program had been inspiring.
“The University’s support for this program builds on our work with the West Coast community to help improve educational, social and economic outcomes in the region,” Ms Kidd said.
“We wish the participants every success, and hope they go on to utilise their new skills in a way that makes rich contributions to their local place, and forges long-lasting change.”
Pictured: Participant, Rebecca Pitt