Adaptive Leadership Program
Thrive in complexity
Unlock your leadership potential with our Adaptive Leadership Program.
Join us on 2-4 April 2025 in Melbourne and gain the tools, insights, and networks to elevate your leadership and thrive in complex environments.
What is this program?
The Adaptive Leadership Program is an experiential development program aimed at building your capacity to make progress on complex problems, and thrive in response to uncertainty and change.
Develop a strong network of like-minded leaders to share ideas and experiences with, as you develop your skills and capacity to lead from any role.
The combination of skill development and network formation will equip participants to face the unique challenges faced by those seeking to create positive systemic change within their organisations.
This program comprises of a pre-program online induction, a 3-day intensive in Melbourne on 2-4 April 2025 and a post-program online session.
Registrations will open in September 2024 and close at the end of Feb 2025.
Who is this program for?
The Adaptive Leadership Program is designed for individuals who take a leadership role in the workplace, and who want to develop their adaptive leadership capacity. This might look like leading a volunteer program at work, such as taking a leading role in an ERG or D&I program, leading a team, or looking to take the next step forward on your leadership journey.
This program is for people who can think strategically, work effectively in teams and are open to new perspectives.
Your role will be actively involved in driving positive systemic change in your organisation, or put you in a position to influence others to think differently, open themselves up to new perspectives or adapt in the face of uncertainty and complexity.
All levels of experience are welcome, including individuals who are new to the role. No prior long-term experience is required to participate.
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The program will provide participants with a strong foundation in the dynamics of complexity and leadership and equip them with a toolbox of strategies to immediately use back in the workplace.
Participants will gain practical skills and knowledge to support their leadership practice which will lead to increased confidence, as well as the ability to consider multiple viewpoints and generate multiple interpretations and solutions to challenges.
In addition, peer networks will be built to support the participant’s leadership journey through the sharing of ideas and challenges.
While the program provides an inclusive and supportive environment in which to learn, the nature of building adaptive capacity involves the challenge of moving out of one’s comfort zone and undertaking self-reflection in service of one’s learning and growth as a leader.
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By empowering your leaders through this program, your organisation can expect several benefits:
Enhanced innovation:
creates an environment where employees are able to bring their whole selves to work. This fosters a culture of authenticity, allowing diverse perspectives and ideas to flourish, ultimately driving innovation within your organisation.
Increased talent attraction and retention:
A workplace that values diversity of thought becomes an attractive destination for top talent. When leaders successfully create inclusive and supportive cultures, it helps attract and retain diverse employees who appreciate and thrive in such environments, contributing to a stronger and more diverse workforce.
Aligned results with organisational purpose:
This program equips your leaders with the confidence and skills to effectively drive results that align with your organisation's purpose. They will develop the ability to view situations from multiple perspectives, enabling them to make informed decisions that contribute to the overall goals and values of the organisation.
Expanded networks and connections:
Through this program, new leaders will have the opportunity to build networks and connections that support their work. They can tap into a strong community of leaders, sharing ideas, experiences, and best practices. These networks provide valuable support and resources.
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You must be available to attend and participate in all program elements including in-person and online sessions and a small amount of pre-work;
You must have support from your organisation and/or senior leadership to participate, including support to attend the program in full and opportunities to apply the learnings.
All levels of experience are welcome, including individuals who are new to the role. No prior long-term experience is required to participate. 100% commitment to the program is essential.
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Access the registration form here.
Taryn Sexton
Program Lead Facilitator
Taryn Sexton is an experienced leadership development specialist, facilitator and executive. Passionate about developing leaders to tackle the complex issues we face in a rapidly changing future, she is an Alumni of the Transformative Leadership Program (2016), a collaboration between the University of Adelaide and the Lyndon B Johnson School of Government at the University of Texas and a Fellow of the Governor's Leadership Foundation (2009).
Taryn is also an accredited Executive Coach, Resilience @ Work Practitioner and Team Management Systems Practitioner. Taryn is skilled at diagnosing organisational and sector needs and curating plans and programs to address these. Her facilitation style is warm, inclusive and results driven.
Taryn was the lead facilitator for the Equality Project’s previous leadership programs that include the LGBTIQA+ Leadership Program in Victoria (2021), the LGBTIQA+ Leadership Program in Adelaide (2022) as well as the inaugural Adaptive Leadership Program for ERGs in Melbourne (2024).
Adaptive Leadership Program
Key Dates
Induction (online): Wed 12th March 2025, 12.30 pm - 1.30 pm
In-person intensive: Wed 2nd to Friday 4th April 2025
Location: Melbourne CBD, venue to be confirmed
Post-program check-in (online): Wednesday 7th May, 12.30 pm - 1.30 pm
Program Fee
Corporate (for-profit organisation) $3950
Community (non-profit organisation) $2250
Registrations close end of February 2025
Maximum of 20 participants. Melbourne CBD location.
Please review the program terms and conditions.
2024 Program Participant Testimonials
“I thoroughly enjoyed the course and got so much out of it. I leave feeling very inspired and that it’s exactly what I needed at this point in my career. I could have done this for a whole week!"
“I thoroughly enjoyed the course and got so much out of it. I leave feeling very inspired and that it’s exactly what I needed at this point in my career. I could have done this for a whole week!"
"This training somehow should become mandatory for leaders and emerging leaders as I believe this course is incredibly powerful and will stay with me for a very long time."
"Absolutely loved the program days. Thank you!"
"This training somehow should become mandatory for leaders and emerging leaders as I believe this course is incredibly powerful and will stay with me for a very long time." "Absolutely loved the program days. Thank you!"
"The concepts that were taught are incredibly powerful and thought-provoking. They have led to me realising to look at things in a different perspective."
"The concepts that were taught are incredibly powerful and thought-provoking. They have led to me realising to look at things in a different perspective."
"The adaptive style of delivering the content and the humanisation of dealing with participants resonated with me most."
"The adaptive style of delivering the content and the humanisation of dealing with participants resonated with me most."
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Adaptive Leadership Program?
The Adaptive Leadership Program is an experiential development training program designed to enhance the leadership skills of individuals who seek to thrive in uncertain and changing environments. The program focuses on developing adaptive leadership abilities and fostering a supportive network among new leaders to facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences. Adaptive leadership equips you to make progress on complex problems, through the teaching of a variety of tools and frameworks, and the development of self-awareness and persona growth of all participants.
How many participants will be part of this program?
The Adaptive Leadershp Program will have a maximum of 20 participants only.
WHEN WILL THIS PROGRAM BE HELD?
Please refer to the key dates above.
Where will the program be held?
The in-person program days will be held at a central location in Melbourne, Victoria. Venue details will be provided to participants upon registration.
Is there a fee to attend the program?
Yes. Here is the fee structure:
Corporate (for-profit organisations) $3950 inc GST
Community (non-profit organisations) $2250 inc GST
Scholarships available for eligible non-profit organisations only, apply here.
How will the program be delivered?
The program will consist of three in-person program days and an induction conducted online one week prior to commencement.
Can reasonable adjustments be made to support the participation of people living with a disability?
We want this program to be accessible to participants of all abilities. Reasonable adjustments to support full participation will be accommodated. These may include, but are not limited to:
Universal access for people using a wheelchair or other mobility devices
Adjustments to the set up of learning spaces/venues
Accommodating the presence of support workers at training workshops
Alternative format learning materials
Dietary requirements
You will be asked to provide details of the types of support or adjustments that you require at the time of registration.
If you would like to discuss your accessibility requirements with us before you submit your application please contact us on: accessibility@equality.org.au.
Who is delivering the program?
The Adaptive Leadership Program is an initiative of The Equality Project®. The lead facilitator for this program will be Taryn Sexton and supported by The Equality Project® team.
What is the difference between the Adaptive Leadership Program and the Advocacy Masterclass?
Advocacy Masterclass is a 2-day workshop on advocacy and campaigning skills for rainbow community advocates. Adaptive leadership concepts will not be covered in this 2-day program.
Adaptive Leadership Program is a 3-day intensive leadership training program that focuses on developing the leadership capacity of LGBTIQA+ leaders and allies who are seeking to make progress on complex problems, and thrive in uncertain environments.
Who can attend this program?
The Adaptive Leadership Program for ERGs is for individuals who are seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities.
Participants must also:
Be 18 years old or over;
Be able to commit to attending the 3-day in-person intensive on all the key dates listed above. There will be a post-program session that will also require your attendance.
Have support from their organisation and/or senior leadership to participate.
All levels of experience are welcome, including individuals who are new to the role. No prior long-term experience is required to participate.
Is there a scholarship?
A limited number of scholarships will be available to eligible non-profit organisations. A reduced fee of $1250 inc GST will apply. Apply for a scholarship here.
Do I have to identify as LGBTIQA+ to participate?
No. We welcome allies who are supportive and committed to advocating for the rights and wellbeing of the LGBTIQA+ community. Allies are individuals who may not identify as LGBTIQA+ themselves but actively work towards creating inclusive spaces, challenging discrimination, and fostering allyship within their organisations.
Allies play a vital role in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by supporting and advocating for the rights and well-being of LGBTIQA+ employees. In fact, we need more allies to actively engage in this work and contribute to creating inclusive and supportive workplace cultures.
That sounds like me! How do I book my spot?
That’s great to hear! You can start the registration process here.
As part of your registration, please describe your role and the ways in which you’ve contributed to promoting diversity of thought in your organisation. If you're new to the role, please share your intentions or aspirations.
We kindly request the participant to complete the form.
If you need assistance to complete the registration form, please let us know.
Please take note of the registration closing date listed above.
Can I get an invoice to organise payment?
Yes. We require the participant to complete the form and provide the invoicing contact information for payment purposes.
ANY TESTIMONIALS?
Here are some testimonials from participants of the Victorian LGBTIQ+ Leadership Program 2021:
My question hasn't been covered. How can I get in touch?
Please contact us at:
mail@equality.org.au
In order to create lasting and meaningful change, we need more diverse and adaptive leaders who value critical thinking, prioritise connection and embody a commitment to lifelong learning.
The Adaptive Leadership Program for Employee Resources Groups is an initiative of The Equality Project®.
Program details are correct at time of publishing and are subject to change without notice.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation, the traditional owners of this land where we will we meet and work on. We pay respect to their Elders — past, present and future — and acknowledge the important role all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to play within Australia.
Always Was Always Will Be