Announced by Hon Donna Faragher, Minister for Youth, last month the One Sky, Many Paths indigenous youth leadership program targets people between 16 and 24 years of age who demonstrate leadership potential.

“I would urge regional community citizens, especially Aboriginal parents, to nominate young indigenous men and women who they believe have the capacity to lead,” Mr Gardiner said.

The program, run by Challenger TAFE, provides training for 40 young Aboriginal men and women in such areas as self awareness, self esteem, leadership, communication, business technology and workplace safety. The course, the first in a number of programs targeting youth, is entirely free and includes two one-week residential components in Perth.

At the end of the course successful participants are awarded a Certificate II in Leadership Development, a qualification which can be used to advance career opportunities.

“One Sky, Many Paths will be a valuable tool for regional communities who have identified young Aboriginals with leadership capability but who lack appropriate resources to foster their potential,” Mr Gardiner said.

“I congratulate the Government on the initiative that I’m sure will assist regional communities in investing in their futures by helping to create an enriching and rewarding environment for all citizens,” Mr Gardiner concluded.