Ethical leadership day for Catholic students

The opening address was from Catholic Education Sandhurst executive director Kate Fogarty, who challenged senior students about ethical leadership and what the world needed from young leaders today and into the future.

“The Ethical Student Leaders day is one of my favourite days of the year,” Kate said.

“How can you not be excited to be with these amazing young people who are settling into their leadership roles and doing an amazing job?

“They are deeply engaged in learning about their communities and the organisation they are part of, and they are thoughtfully considering the type of leaders they need to be to help their peers grow into the best versions of themselves.

“Throughout the day, these student leaders have been dedicated to thinking about how they can bring their best selves to school every single day.

“I am so proud of the fabulous work they are doing and look forward to seeing their continued growth and impact.”

In the afternoon, students worked with presenter Kate Wilde from The Human Development Workshop, focusing on the importance of inclusivity, listening to others and working collaboratively.

The Human Development Workshop is a Melbourne-based organisation working with primary and secondary schools, youth services and other community services for young people across Victoria.

Reflecting on the day’s lessons, St Anne’s College Kialla captain Alick Jarvis highlighted the importance of empathy in leadership.

“We’ve learnt a lot about empathy today,” Alick said.

“A few activities have showcased different ways students can be included and excluded, which has highlighted how leaders need to step up and ensure we connect with everyone we see, not just the ones we know.

“It’s also been fantastic to meet the leaders from other schools and share ideas on how to grow our school and grow our community.

“My main takeaway is realising everyone has issues, and everyone’s issues are important.

“As leaders, we need to be able to talk with people we don’t know, find those issues and support them.

“Overall, we’re very glad that we were able to participate in the day and are looking forward to applying the knowledge we gained about faith, leadership and our Catholic values in the year to come.”

Students travelled from as far as Wodonga to attend the day, with students from Notre Dame College Shepparton, St Anne’s College Kialla, FCJ College Benalla, Galen Catholic College and Borinya Wangaratta Community Partnership in Wangaratta, St Mary of the Angels College Nathalia, St Augustine’s College Kyabram, Catholic College Wodonga, and Marian College Myrtleford.