An intensive leadership programme with a strong track record of success will be taking place in Wānaka this month for the first time. 

Well established in Otago and Southland, the Leadership Academy is a five-week course designed to help participants be better equipped for leadership roles and opportunities and connect them with successful leaders across a range of industries.

It is being brought here by Ignite Wānaka, and general manager Naomi Lindsay says the programme will help build up Wānaka’s businesses and community leaders.

“As the business support organisation for Wānaka, we wanted to play a role in ensuring our business and wider community has strong leadership today and in the future,” Naomi said.

“In times of stress and crisis, we need strong leaders to help rebuild our communities and help businesses, our people and communities thrive.”

The academy will take place over six weeks starting this month (there’s an April academy available to sign up to as well) and in each six-hour session participants will learn about leadership from seasoned experts including Dunedin Airport CEO Richard Roberts, Ministry of Social Development southern regional commissioner Jason Tibble and Wayfare chief experience officer Bridget Legnavsky.

By the end of the academy, which also includes reflective learning sessions, attendees will have a good understanding of what is required to be a significant leader in their own organisation or in the wider community, Naomi said. 

The Wānaka Leadership Academy is registered with the Management Capability Development Voucher Fund through Regional Business Partners Network (RBP) growth advisors.

Vouchers may be provided to a business where the growth advisors have identified a need for management training to support the business owner to grow and innovate their business, Naomi said.

There are just four places left in the October round of the Wānaka Leadership Academy so anyone wanting to take part should get in touch as soon as possible, she said.

Find more information about the academy on Ignite Wanaka's website.

PHOTO: Supplied