Emerging Young Leaders are back

 

Expressions of interest for the 2026 Emerging Young Leaders Mentoring Program are now open.

 

The mentoring program focuses on supporting young adult members with leadership aspirations by fostering their professional development, exploring role pathways, and encouraging personal growth.

• equip young volunteers with essential leadership and management skills, preparing them for future leadership roles
• facilitate the sharing of experience and expertise from adult mentors
• improve volunteer satisfaction and engagement
• increase operational efficiency and effectiveness
• increase the retention of young volunteers by providing emerging leaders with personalised support and clear pathways for development.

Applications are open from 2 February to 2 March.

If you are 18 to 30 years old with leadership aspirations or an experienced member who can share your valuable knowledge as a mentor, you can apply for this program.

The EOI can be accessed here.

This year, EOI support is available so contact the Pathways team for assistance and guidance on your application. 

Mentees will be matched with suitably experienced and trained mentors across the state. The program will be delivered over six months from April to October, and will include a blend of one-on-one mentoring and group sessions that may be online or face-to-face.

The program also includes mentoring skills development training (for mentors), weekly sessions, two professional development workshops, regular check-ins and an end-of-program acknowledgement day.

When asked about the value of the program, 2025 participant Catherine McAllister said, “I think it will allow younger members to gain confidence to pursue leadership roles at all levels of CFA. It’s something I wish I had the opportunity to do at their age.”

Other 2025 participants also commented on their experiences in the program.

“I’m interested in growing and developing away from just the fire side of things,” Mentee Cara Munnings said.

“Connecting people like this, outside of their regular groups, will make a more connected CFA and produce better outcomes and teamwork at bigger events,” Mentor Don Cook said.

“Some day I hope I can do the same for others,” Mentee Sam Berkery said.

For more information or to express your interest in the 2026 Emerging Young Leaders Mentoring Program, go to Members Online.

 

Submitted by	Alex Reid