The launch of a three-year scholarship program accelerates AICD’s work in building a First Nations director pipeline.
The AICD has accepted applications for the inaugural round of the First Nations Director Scholarship Program, which will develop the capability of 45 senior leaders in the community- controlled sector.
“This is a groundbreaking program to boost the representation of First Nations people in boardrooms across the country,” says Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney (above).
In total, 135 Indigenous leaders will benefit from the program, which is funded by the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) and is delivered in partnership with the Australian Indigenous Governance Institute (AIGI) and The Observership Program.
Mark Rigotti MAICD, managing director and CEO of AICD, thanks NIAA for its endorsement in this initiative. “This is a very important step in the AICD’s ambition to increase the relevance and reach of our governance education and services for First Nations members and directors.
“We firmly believe it’s through this type of program, and especially with the emphasis on collaboration, that the AICD can make a serious and important contribution to increasing First Nations representation in the boardroom.”
Participants will receive top-tier governance education, mentoring and workshops tailored to cultural and community contexts. The course includes Foundations of Directorship, with added benefits such as AICD membership and support for travel and accommodation.
Like Rigotti, AIGI CEO Jess Bulger MAICD emphasises the innovative approach and the program’s alignment with broader goals such as the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.
To register your interest in AICD scholarship programs, click here.
This article first appeared under the headline 'Partnering For Change’ in the December 2023 / January 2024 issue of Company Director magazine.
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