Seeking proud local leaders

ARE you passionate about raising the voice of our LGBTQI community? Are you a future leader for local LGBTQI?

Thanks to a recent grant of $40,000 from the Victorian Government, GV Pride is giving at least ten local LGBTQI leaders the chance to develop new skills that will help raise the capacity and capabilities of the LGBTQI sector across the Goulburn Valley.

GV Pride treasurer and long-time LGBTQI rights advocate, Damien Stevens-Todd said the leadership opportunity will give those who don’t have the resources or time to study leadership the chance to stand proud, affirm who they are, and influence others.

“The course will help teach effective communication, conflict resolution, what it’s like to work in a committee or board.

“People of all ages can apply. We are especially encouraging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQI citizens and senior LGBTQI citizens to apply, as their souls may have been especially hurt by discrimination and could benefit from leadership skills,” Mr Stevens-Todd said.

Over the next twelve months, the training will utilise the skills of GV Pride’s current members, volunteers and board members, combined with development and leadership seminars, to help raise the profile of Goulburn Valley’s LGBTQI community.

“There are hundreds of people in the region who could benefit from this program and we are not limiting application numbers,” Mr Stevens-Todd continued.

Successful applicants will also be invited to assist with many of the great GV Pride community events organised locally throughout the year, including: Out in the Open Festival; Wear it Purple Day; International Day Against Homophobia, Biophobia, Intersexism and Transphobia; and Shepparton Festival.

For more information, GV Pride is hosting an information session tonight, Wednesday August 7, from 6pm until 8pm. Food will be provided and it is a good opportunity for some local networking and to get to know the local LGBTQI community. For more information about GV Pride or the leadership program, visit www.gvpride.org or visit their Facebook page at ‘Goulburn Valley Pride Shepparton.’