Program Overview

Overview of the LGBTQIA+ Executive Fellowship

The LGBTQIA+ Executive Fellowship is a transformative program designed for LGBTQIA+ leaders and their allies. Hosted by The University of Sydney's world-leading business school and in proud partnership with The Pinnacle Foundation, this program equips participants with the skills, strategies, and mindset to lead with authenticity, influence, and impact.

Key Benefits

• Personal Leadership Development: Uncover how your LGBTQIA+ identity can be a unique leadership strength.
• Authentic Communication: Enhance your leadership presence and become a more effective, inspiring communicator.
• Strategic Mastery: Strengthen your strategic decision-making and problem-solving abilities to lead in a rapidly evolving world.
• Creative Leadership: Learn how to apply design thinking to unleash creativity in your leadership and strategic initiatives.
• Peer Network: Build valuable relationships with other LGBTQIA+ leaders for ongoing collaboration and support.
• Guest Speakers: Hear from prominent LGBTQIA+ leaders who will share their personal journeys and invaluable leadership lessons.
• Special Events: Connect with industry leaders and past LGBTQIA+ executive fellows through events including a welcome dinner, closing celebration, and networking sessions.

Program Details

Course Type

Executive education

Delivery Mode

Face-to-face

Start Date

18 May

Duration

5 Days

Price

A$10,450.00

The University of Sydney Business School

This course is designed and delivered by the University of Sydney Business School Executive Education team, offering world-class leadership programs that are practical and impactful for individuals and organizations.

Our Partner

The Pinnacle Foundation is Australia's LGBTQIA+ education charity, providing educational scholarships, mentoring, and opportunities for young LGBTQIA+ Australians to realize their full potential.

The Fellowship Experience

Over the course of five days, participants will engage in interactive workshops, live simulations, and real-world case studies that challenge conventional management thinking and tropes, nudging them out of their comfort zone and towards their growth edge. The week concludes with a group presentation to demonstrate learnings to an expert guest panel, with successful completion qualifying participants for a digital badge to share on their LinkedIn profile.

Guest Speakers

• The Honourable Michael Kirby AC CMG: An international jurist, educator, and active advocate for human rights, including women, young people, and sexual minorities.
• Paul Zahra: A chief executive officer, non-executive director, board and company advisor, and one of Australia's most influential diversity advocates.
• Alan Joyce AC: The former chief executive officer & managing director of the Qantas Group, recognized as one of the world's most influential gay business leaders.
• Professor Jennifer Westacott AC: A highly accomplished leader with extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, serving as a Non-Executive Director at Wesfarmers and ATCO.
• Benjamin Law: An Australian writer and broadcaster, author of several books, and creator of the award-winning SBS/Hulu/Comedy Central Asia TV series The Family Law.

Academic Leads

• Professor Betina Szkudlarek, Program Co-Director: A Professor in Management at the University of Sydney Business School, with expertise in cross-cultural management, international human resource management, and management of diversity.
• Professor Kevin B. Lowe, Program Co-Director: A recognized leader in the field of leadership, serving as Professor in Leadership in the Business School at the University of Sydney.
• Dr. Sandra Peter: The Director of Sydney Executive Plus and Associate Professor at the University of Sydney, with research and practice focusing on engaging with the future in productive ways.
• Dr. Kai Riemer: Professor of Information Technology and Organisation and the Director of Sydney Executive Plus at the University of Sydney Business School, with expertise in artificial intelligence, future of work, emerging technologies, and philosophy of technology.
• Josephine O’Reilly: A champion improviser and comedy performer, with substantial global experience in delivering workshops and individual sessions in communication and presentation skills.

Who is this Course For?

This program is designed for mid- to senior-level LGBTQIA+ leaders with at least 10 years of professional experience and a minimum of 5 years in management. It is also beneficial for those transitioning from technical roles into leadership positions or preparing to take on board responsibilities. Allies working in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), talent management, or leadership development who are committed to advancing LGBTQIA+ inclusion are encouraged to apply.

Course Delivery Style

The program will run in-person each day at the Sydney CBD campus, with evening events including a welcome dinner, a celebratory closing dinner, and hosted networking opportunities to facilitate community building and strengthen professional networks.

Scholarships and Letter of Support

A limited number of full scholarships and significantly reduced rate places are available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, self-employed, and those working in the not-for-profit sector. Participants can also download a customizable letter template to request their company's support to participate in the LGBTQIA+ fellowship program.

Application Process

Enrollment in this course is via application, with places limited and early application encouraged. The application process involves submitting an application, which will be assessed by the admissions panel, with offers made on a rolling basis to suitable candidates.

Upcoming Classes

The program will be held from Monday, 18 May 2026, to Friday, 22 May 2026, at the University of Sydney - CBD Campus, with 5 sessions and a total of 40 hours.

Related Courses

• Dr. John Yu Fellowship: Accelerate your career as a culturally diverse leader.
• Sydney Leadership Accelerator Program: Develop key leadership, strategy, and organizational capabilities and insights to support your career advancement or transition.