Have you considered becoming a member of a non-profit board in your local community? Would you benefit from a better understanding of the governance requirements and ongoing operations of a board? Have you considered applying for the Observership Program?

The Observership Program facilitates the involvement of young, talented and energetic individuals in a structured experience on non-profit Boards. Each Observer is paired with an organisation for a 12-month period. During that time, Observers attend all board and/or committee meetings as non-voting members and learn about fundamental principles and functions of not-for-profit boards, the roles of board members, fiscal processes and other governance priorities. The Program provides Observers with first-hand exposure to the role of the board, its decision-making and operations as well as targeted training and mentorship designed to give Observers important skills to bring to the boardroom.

The Victorian Rural Women’s Network works in partnership with The Observership Program to provide a number of sponsored places each year. In 2021, 6 members of the Network are participating in the program, gaining valuable skills and experience in the operations of non-profit boards, and training from the nationally recognized Australian Institute of Company Directors.

We look forward to seeing these participants bring their insights back to their communities in years to come, growing their contributions as leaders across rural Victoria.

Applications open on 7 June 2021 and close on Sunday 4 July 2021 for the 2022 Program. Find out more information here. https://www.observership.com.au/