Program Overview

Overview

The LGBTQIA+ Executive Fellowship is a transformative one-week program designed for LGBTQIA+ Executives, hosted by The University of Sydney's world-leading business school and in proud partnership with The Pinnacle Foundation. This program aims to equip 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

The program 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.

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.

Speakers

The program features a range of esteemed guest speakers, including:

• The Honourable Michael Kirby AC CMG
• Paul Zahra
• Alan Joyce AC
• Professor Jennifer Westacott AC
• Benjamin Law

Academic Leads

The program is co-directed by:

• Professor Betina Szkudlarek
• Professor Kevin B. Lowe

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 also encouraged to apply.

Course Delivery Style

The program will run in-person each day at the University of Sydney's 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.

Application Process

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

Sessions

The program consists of five sessions, each running from 9am to 5pm (UTC+10:00) at the University of Sydney's CBD campus.

Upcoming Classes

The upcoming class is scheduled to run from Monday, 18 May 2026, to Friday, 22 May 2026, with a total of 40 hours.

Tuition Fee

The tuition fee for the program is $10,450.00.

Facilitators

The program is facilitated by a team of experienced academics and industry experts, including Professor Kevin B. Lowe.