Cross-sector sponsorship of diverse talent
This transformative initiative connects members across organisations to support professional development in emergency management.
CFA is proud to participate in the Sponsorship of Diverse Talent program, an interagency initiative that connects senior leaders (Sponsors) with high-potential team members (sponsees) to support their development in emergency management.
Led by Emergency Management Victoria, this 12-month program advocates for women, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, to help them thrive in their careers. By pairing senior leaders with women from participating agencies, the program fosters collaboration and emphasises a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Each sponsor-sponsee relationship is tailored to individual goals, ensuring unique and impactful pairings. Sponsors guide sponsees in identifying areas for improvement and building essential skills, leveraging their expertise and networks to help participants achieve their objectives.
The program recently celebrated the conclusion of its 2023-24 cohort while launching the 2024-25 cycle. Representatives from various emergency services organisations gathered to celebrate past achievements and introduce the new cohort. In the last cohort, CFA had two sponsors and one sponsee. For the upcoming cycle, CFA is excited to announce three sponsors and two sponsees.
This cross-sector approach offers exceptional opportunities for career advancement, confidence building, networking, and a deeper understanding of leadership potential.
Nominations for the 2025-26 Sponsorship of Diverse Talent program will open in the fourth quarter of the 2024-25 financial year. We encourage CFA women interested in gaining sponsorship to take advantage of this invaluable opportunity, as well as any senior leaders who would like to be a sponsor for a woman from another agency.