Future Leaders Program 2026 Kicks Off with a Full Cohort

The 2026 HunterNet Future Leaders Program officially kicks off on Thursday 5 March, and once again the program begins with a full cohort of motivated and emerging leaders from across the HunterNet membership.

Interest in the program was exceptionally strong this year, with places filling quickly as businesses recognised the value of investing in the next generation of leaders within their organisations. The diverse group of participants represents a wide range of industries across the HunterNet network and will spend the coming months learning, collaborating and challenging themselves to grow both personally and professionally.

The opening session will also include the announcement of the Kristen Keegan Scholarship recipient. This scholarship honours the legacy of Kristen Keegan and supports a participant in undertaking the program, ensuring the opportunity to develop leadership capability is accessible to those with strong potential.

One of the most valuable aspects of the Future Leaders Program is the connections formed between participants. From the very first session, the cohort will begin getting to know each other, sharing experiences from their workplaces, and building relationships that often continue long after the program concludes. These peer connections are a cornerstone of the program and create a supportive environment where participants can learn not only from industry experts, but also from one another.

Across the program, participants will take part in 13 dynamic sessions led by experienced facilitators and industry leaders, covering the critical skills required to lead in today’s workplace. Previous sessions have included:

  • Developing a High-Performance Culture – Wayne Pearce
    Inspiring leaders to build teams that consistently perform at their best.

  • Authentic Leadership – Jeremy Dooley
    Exploring how authenticity builds trust, credibility and stronger leadership.

  • Networking for Success – Julia Palmer, Relatus
    Helping participants create genuine connections that support career growth.

  • Emotional Intelligence – Dan Czura
    Developing self-awareness and people skills essential for modern leadership.

  • Let’s Talk Mental Health – Steve Gamble, Man Anchor
    Equipping leaders to foster wellbeing and support mental health in the workplace.

  • HR & People Management – James Ritchie & Jane McConville
    Providing practical tools to manage, motivate and empower people.

  • Change & Project Management – KJ Chantrey
    Supporting leaders to guide teams through change and deliver outcomes.

  • Stakeholder Management – Jamie Abbott
    Building the skills to influence, collaborate and manage key relationships.

With a full room of engaged participants ready to learn, share and grow together, the 2026 Future Leaders Program is set to be another outstanding year of leadership development within the HunterNet community.