A recent collaboration between ABCN and American Express resulted in an exciting new two-day, leadership mentoring program – Leaders of Tomorrow. Designed to inspire Year 11 students from high-needs schools who demonstrate leadership potential, the program connects students with senior leaders from American Express, providing an opportunity to mentor students in leadership experience and skills.

The workshops were held in May and June at the American Express head office in Sydney. Senior leaders from key areas of the business mentored 12 students from four ABCN partner schools to introduce the concept of leadership with a focus on setting goals and leading a team, different leadership styles and techniques. Mentors also shared insights into their own leadership journeys and students heard a number of different perspectives.

Both American Express mentors and student participants provided enthusiastic and positive feedback with 100% of students reporting a better understanding of their leadership potential as a result of their participation in the program. Feedback from mentors who took part was also outstanding. ‘It was great to support young people and share even a small insight that could make a big difference.’