Our Melbourne Emerging Leaders Forum Group first meeting in August
In August, FBA head office was alight with excitement as a new group of participants gathered for the first Emerging Leaders Forum Group meeting in Melbourne. After the successful pilot of Emerging Leaders Forum Group in New South Wales, it was very exciting to have now expanded the program to Victoria. There was a sense of anticipation in the air as our Victorian participants met for the first time, exchanging handshakes, smiles, and maybe a few nervous looks. Each of them was ready, to take on this two-year program along side the support of their new peers.
The Emerging Leaders Forum Group brings together the next generation of family business leaders for a two-year program of growth, learning, and connection. Throughout the program, participants will meet monthly to hear from experienced business leaders, gain insights into what it truly means to lead, and develop the skills needed to navigate the unique challenges of family business. The program provides a confidential and supportive space where members can talk openly, listen to others’ experiences, and learn alongside peers who understand their world. Guided by dedicated forum facilitator, Joanne Hood, these future leaders are taking the next step toward advancing within their businesses but also strengthening their roles within their families.
The meeting began with everyone introducing themselves and presenting on their passions, their family business stories, and their involvement so far, before finally sharing their personal “why.” They were given the great opportunity to listen and engage with Angus Kennard from Kennards Hire and Inauro. As a family business leader and fellow Forum Group participant Angus, shared insights from his own journey as an emerging leader and the lessons he has learned through his role as CEO and an entrepreneur, understanding the challenges and nuances the participants were experiencing in their own roles. Angus also explored a range of topics including charters, boards, values, investment strategies, the Kennard Hire employment participant program, and his expectations for the next generation of his family entering the business, even touching on the unique decision to employ a cultural anthropologist within the company.
Fifth-generation family business member Zac Whelan from Kartaway reflected on Angus’ session, “Listening to Angus Kennard share his family business journey provided deep insight into a much larger business than ours,” highlighting how valuable it is for forum participants to learn from senior family business leaders.
Our NSW Emerging Leaders Forum Group socialing after a meeting.
After a few hours of discussion and learning, the Emerging Leaders took a well-deserved break and were treated to a delicious display of food some of which included family businesses. The sweet aroma of SSS Strawberries mingled with the crisp, refreshing taste of Bundaberg Brew apple and lychee, while Brookfarm Walkabout trailmix added a touch of wholesome indulgence.
The session concluded with a celebration of their first meeting together, outside the office, giving everyone the chance to relax, chat, and begin forming lifelong connections. Siena Postregna from Tamarix Poultry Farm summed it up perfectly, “Great group of people. Can’t wait for the next meeting.”
As the first session drew to a close, everyone exchanged contact details and continued conversations, already building connections they expect to last a lifetime. What began as a gathering of strangers from different businesses and industries ended with a sense of camaraderie and understanding, a group of people who not only share similar challenges but can now lean on each other for support.
With energy still high, the Emerging Leaders are already counting down to their next meeting in September, eager to continue their journey of growth, collaboration, and inspiration.
If you are interested in joining an Emerging Leaders Forum Group express your interest below or if you have any questions please reach out to Olivia:
Contact Olivia Spalding, Forum Group Manager on +61 3 9123 4412 or email forums@familybusiness.org.au for a confidential discussion.
