Gerald Lynch
Overnewton Anglican Community College has hosted a highly successful leadership summit on Friday.
More than 100 senior student leaders from nine schools in the Brimbank area gathered at the college to receive quality leadership development.
Elucidate Education chief executive Christian Bien gave the keynote address – leadership for social impact.
Drawing from his personal journey as a refugee, Mr Bien shared his passion for social change and highlighted the importance of educational equity.
His inspiring words resonated with the diverse audience, consisting of students from local Government, Independent, and Catholic schools.
Distinguished guests, including state government Parliamentary Secretary for Education and MP Darren Cheeseman, who took the time to connect and speak with the student leaders.
The event featured three hands-on workshops facilitated by the Youth Leadership Academy Australia (YLAA) on self leadership and service leadership, communicating with teams and the community, and an introduction to student-led initiatives.
Overnewton’s College captains, Lauren Grimaud and Finnian Armstrong, supported by the Overnewton’s student executive team, organised and managed the event.
Lauren expressed her enthusiasm for the event.
“The impact of this leadership event goes beyond what I could have imagined,” she said. “It’s inspiring to see students from other schools coming together, learning, and collaborating for a common purpose.
Finnian also found the day to be successful, and will help him to be the best captain possible.
“The YLAA workshops were a game-changer,” he said. “They equipped us with practical skills in self-leadership, communication, and creating student-led initiatives.
”The facilitators brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise that resonated with all participants.”
College principal Emily FitzSimons said she was proud to play host to the event for the local community.
“Empowering our students through initiatives like these not only contributes to their personal and social development but also strengthens the bonds that tie Overnewton to the vibrant community we are fortunate to be a part of,” she said.
“The college looks forward to building on this success in future initiatives that empower and inspire the leaders of tomorrow.”
In addition, Overnewton welcomed the return of members from the Victorian Proactive Policing Unit who continued to build strong and positive connections with students at the event. They shared how student leaders can play a particularly important role in keeping their community safe.
