The Class Of 2018 Graduates From Council's Program

Heartfelt presentations by students from four Scenic Rim secondary schools were the culmination of Council's 2018 Youth Leadership Program today.

The Youth Leadership Symposium at The Centre Beaudesert marked the 'graduation' of the Class of 2018 which included 30 students representing Beaudesert State High School, Tamborine Mountain State High School, Tamborine Mountain College and Boonah State High School.

Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said that since the establishment of the Youth Leadership Program by Council in 2011, some 185 Year 10 students have enjoyed the opportunity to develop their self-awareness and learned how to deliver effective presentations, make informed leadership decisions, and actively contribute within a group working environment.

"I am sure that the experience they have gained will stand them in good stead for their school and future careers and will add value to our communities now and in years to come," he said.

"It's my personal belief that we should always be investing in the next generation to ensure that we have strong leadership to meet the challenges of a dynamic world.

"This program plays an important part in that and also provides a valuable exchange between Council and the students, giving our young people a voice in the community."

Council staff and former Olympian Selina Scoble, who has built a successful business as a career coach, worked with the students to further develop their leadership skills.

Guest speaker, former Australian Hockey Captain Mark Knowles, who is best known for leading from behind at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games as flag-bearer, told the students that they could find a silver lining in every cloud and learn a lesson from every situation they faced.

Mr Knowles used the stories of two ankle injuries to highlight how resilience was the hallmark of any effective leader.