A group of women from diverse political, professional and cultural backgrounds graduated from Pathways to Politics for Women at The University of Western Australia earlier this month.
The uni’s first cohort of 20 women completed the one-week intensive program led by UWA’s Centre for Public Value and the UWA Public Policy Institute.
Pathways to Politics for Women aims to equip participants with the knowledge, networks and tools needed to thrive as political leaders and prepare for a professional life in public office.
The program featured practical workshops, panels and interactive sessions with leading political experts.
Networking and mentoring
Current and past politicians from local, State and Federal Government shared their knowledge and insights into political vision, values, campaigning, working with community leaders, resilience and integrity, policymaking, budgeting, media and speechwriting.
Guest speakers included former WA premier the Hon Carmen Lawrence AO, Senator Fatima Payman, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM, the Hon Rita Saffioti MLA, Liza Harvey, Katrina Stratton PhD, MBA, Kate Chaney MP and the Hon Mia Davies MP.
Associate Professor Paul Maginn, Director of UWA’s Public Policy Institute, says it was fantastic to see the inaugural cohort showcase their commitment and passion to lead and learn.
“Keep an eye out for future elected representatives and leaders in this group of amazing women from across WA with different political backgrounds and lived experiences,” Maginn says.
“We were honoured to host incredible special guests from right across the political spectrum and would like to thank them for sharing their expertise.”
Graduates of the program can elect to be matched with a political mentor if they decide to run for elected office.
Professor David Gilchrist, Director of UWA’s Centre for Public Value, describes the program as a practical and effective way to help redress the gender imbalance in Australian political leadership.
“We are very pleased to work with the Institute for Public Policy UWA to extend this program into WA – it is an opportunity to drive real and effective change,” says Gilchrist.
Both Maginn and Gilchrist acknowledge the support of Minderoo Foundation in helping bring women from regional and remote WA to Perth to take part in the program.
