Regional Development Australia Central West (RDA Central West) is thrilled to announce that the TEN4TEN Leadership Dialogue will once again be hosted in 2025, and applications are open now.
The program was first introduced by RDA Central West in 2020 to provide a unique mentoring experience to youth leaders by connecting them with community champions. The program runs over the school year in the Orange, Blayney, and Cabonne local government areas and is open to all Year 11 students in these regions. Ten students are selected to participate and paired with mentors from various community sectors. Through this program, participating students are presented with numerous opportunities and experiences that enable them to connect with community leaders in a way they never have before.
Year 11 students from across Orange, Blayney and Cabonne are invited to submit a written application of up to 300 words outlining why they believe they should be selected to participate in this program.
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to:
- Attend the program launch and dinner in March and participate in the speed networking activity with all mentors;
- Attend afternoon tea at Orange City Council Chambers for a behind-the-scenes look and career chat;
- Visit Parliament of NSW in Sydney, hosted by Member for Orange, Phil Donato;
- Visit the Parliament of Australia in Canberra, hosted by Federal Member for Calare, Andrew Gee;
- Attend the end-of-program breakfast and presentation in November;
- Take part in additional events that will be organised throughout the duration of the program; and
• Connect with and be mentored by our inspiring community leaders and innovators.
RDA Central West director Josh Gordon said the program will offer participating students a unique and inspiring experience with these recognisable local leaders.
“This is the sixth time TEN4TEN has run and the feedback we have received from students and mentors, as well as the schools, parents and wider community, is just fantastic,” said Mr. Gordon.
“Students have the opportunity to learn from and connect with our community leaders through this experience, while also getting a direct insight into what career opportunities are available right here in the Central West.”
This year, the program will again welcome the participation of TEN4TEN ambassadors, who will be available for an individual mentoring session with any student who expresses an interest in connecting with them, as well as be involved in several group activities as guest speakers.
Mr. Gordon also explained that the program is of great value to senior students as they navigate their final two years at high school and consider what opportunities lie ahead after graduation.
“Year 11 is an important year for students and can bring about stress regarding career paths and choices. TEN4TEN offers an additional source of guidance and a new perspective on what paths are available, providing in-person examples that careers are usually never linear, which takes off a lot of pressure,” added Mr Gordon.
Applications for the 2025 program close on Friday 28 February 2025 at 5pm. Students can submit their application online via https://rdacentralwest.org.au/projects/ten4ten/
