Asialink Leaders Program kicks off with Foundation Week!
22 March 2023: Australia’s flagship program for Asia-capability, the Asialink Leaders Program, kicked off for its 28th year with Foundation Week as we welcomed the newest cohort of Asia-capable Leaders.
This year’s cohort of 55 leaders convened at the offices of Herbert Smith Freehills in Melbourne – as well as via our Virtual Hub for participants across the region – to discuss the history and future of Australia’s relationship with Asia and explore the enormous diversity within the region. The three-day program consisted of workshops, panel discussions, and keynote speeches from a wide variety of leading voices on Asia.
The scene was set with a welcome reception, which featured a profound and tone-setting Welcome to Country from Yorta Yorta and Wurundjeri elder and noted Indigenous activist Dr Lois Peeler AM. Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs - and 2017 Asialink Leaders Alumni – the Hon. Tim Watts MP gave welcoming remarks, followed by a powerful keynote address from Mitu Bhowmick Lange AM, founder and director of Mind Blowing Films. Mitu told the story of her journey pioneering the Indian film scene across Australia – and the challenges and incredible rewards of building a multicultural community. We also had the pleasure of officially awarding this year’s prestigious Asialink Leaders Fellowships to their recipients.
Australia’s position in Asia is more crucial now than ever, as we face uncertain economic prospects, a changing climate, rapid technological change, and geopolitical tensions. How Australia chooses to view itself and its place in the world is core to our ability to make the most of our region.
During Foundation Week, Leaders heard from experts across the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Through deep dive sessions on major Asian nations, they reflected on the importance of not viewing Asia as a monolith, but rather on being aware of the nuances of each market. They also discussed common challenges which are shared across the region.
Leaders explored the history of Australia’s perceptions of Asia, and how that continues to affect our current public discourse, as well as the major trends and factors that will shape the future of the Indo-Pacific. They explored emerging trends in sustainability in Asia, and the vast opportunities for Australian expertise, technology, and capital in contributing to sustainable growth in the region.
Over the course of Foundation Week, Leaders were invited to reflect on the critical question; “Why Asia, Why Me, Why Now?” Leaders explored how they fit in to the broader narrative of Australia-Asian relations, and what they can do to build opportunities for their organisations and communities in the Asian century.
We extend our sincere thanks to our esteemed guests and speakers who shared their journeys and insights with our Asialink Leaders throughout foundation week, and to our program partner Herbert Smith Freehills for hosting our Leaders in their Asia capability journey.
To find out more about the Asialink Leaders Program and how the program can benefit you and your organisation, visit: https://asialinkbusiness.com.au/training-programs/asialink-leaders-program-2023