Women of Colour Australia (WoCA), an Australian not-for-profit organisation advocating for the advancement of Women of Colour through tailored education programs and community support initiatives, announces that applications for the Women of Colour Executive Leadership Program (WoC ELP) Victoria is now open.
WoC ELP is a transformative program designed to empower and uplift Women of Colour in their pursuit of leadership roles across industries.
Now in its second year, the program is designed by and for Women of Colour including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and it directly addresses the underrepresentation of women, particularly Women of Colour, in decision-making positions and the unique challenges they face.
Gender bias, racism, language barriers, and workplace discrimination are just some of the obstacles that impede Women of Colour from fulfilling their leadership potential and career goals.
WoCA recognises the need for a more inclusive and diverse representation in leadership roles as the disparities are compounding in the long term, resulting in disproportionate social and economic disadvantages for diverse women.
“At WoCA, we are committed to creating a more inclusive and diverse society by empowering Women of Colour to reach their full leadership potential,” said Women of Colour Australia Founder and Managing Director Brenda Gaddi.
“Women of Colour who participate in traditional career development programs often find themselves navigating White spaces, code-switching and not feeling culturally and psychologically safe to bring their full, authentic self to the program.”
Gaddi highlighted that their Executive Leadership Program not only addresses the unique challenges faced by Women of Colour but we also provide a supportive environment for them to develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed.
“By working together, we can drive positive change and create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
WoC ELP is not a box-ticking exercise that you set and then forget about. 67% of the 2023 cohort for WoC ELP were promoted within 6 months of completing the program.
“The impact of our program is palpable and we are confident in its ability to gradually chip away at the existing leadership gap in Australia by elevating more Women of Colour in leadership positions across industries,” added Gaddi.
The WoC ELP is a 4-month, fully funded program running from August to November 2024. It offers a unique blend of in-person workshops, personalised online executive coaching sessions by top executive coach Koon Lai, and networking opportunities to enhance participants’ leadership skills and accelerate their career growth.
WoCA sourced highly respected subject expert matters and thought leaders, all Women of Colour, to contribute to the design and delivery of the program. Some of the facilitators include Tasneem Chopra OAM, Cross-Cultural Consultant and DEI trainer, Winitha Bonney OAM, global DEI expert, and Abiola Ajetomobi, Founding Director of Leading Impact, an Australian-based Equity & Inclusion consulting agency.
Participants of the program will also have access to small group coaching, executive mentoring as well as pre and post-program assessments.
With 16 coveted spots available, including five reserved for members of the Victorian Public Service reflecting our commitment to supporting Women of Colour in government roles, the program aims to create lasting impacts in participants’ workplaces and communities.
Applications close at midnight on Monday 1 July 2024. Women of Colour including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women living in Victoria are encouraged to apply here.
Women of Colour Australia acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government.