About the program
The Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program (QIYLP) is a seven-day residential program held in Brisbane with all travel, meals and accommodation provided for the participants and mentors attending.
QIYLP is the flagship component of the Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Strategy. The program provides an exciting opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders, 18–25 years of age, to come together to strengthen their leadership skills and build their capacity to drive change in local communities.
Since it began in 2004, more than 720 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people have participated in the program, with many returning in subsequent years as mentors, lead mentors and program facilitators.
2024 program
Last year’s QIYLP residential program was held between 16–22 September 2023. The 2024 QIYLP program dates have yet to be announced.
What to expect at QIYLP
QIYLP offers participants a unique platform for development of their leadership and self-development capabilities, equipping them with indispensable tools to spearhead and contribute to community projects. This initiative aims to empower individuals to play a pivotal role in fostering positive outcomes within their communities.
The program provides:
- intensive leadership workshops—facilitated by Indigenous community leaders and content experts
- mentoring and networking opportunities—participants can network with high-profile politicians, respected elders and community leaders from Queensland's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and representatives of the Queensland Government
- guidance on how to write community project proposals and apply for grants.
- career development opportunities—providing participants with links to employment opportunities, alumni development program, and access to ongoing mentoring and training.
The program includes the one-day Eric Deeral Indigenous Youth Parliament delivered by the Queensland Parliamentary Services, providing participants with an opportunity to grow their understanding of parliament processes and experience parliament first-hand delivering speeches in the chambers.
More information
If you have any questions, please contact the Program Co-ordinator by email at QIYLP@des.qld.gov.au.