How young innovators can achieve their dreams
Future entrepreneurs and innovators are being given the chance to turn their dreams into a reality.
Expressions of interest are now being invited for students in Years 8 to 10 across the Sunshine Coast to take part in the Mayor’s Telstra Innovation Masterclass Series.
Sunshine Coast Council has launched the new program in partnership with Telstra and Study Sunshine Coast.
The series builds on the success of the Mayor's Telstra Innovation Awards program and will provide even greater access and opportunities for local students.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli praised the initiative.
“The Mayor’s Telstra Innovation Masterclass Series is a fantastic opportunity for our young people to learn from the best and be inspired to achieve great things,” Mayor Natoli said.
“We are committed to investing in our youth and providing them with the tools they need to succeed.
“By supporting our students and connecting them with industry leaders, we are not only helping them to achieve their dreams but also ensuring the continued growth and prosperity of the region.
“Supporting innovation is so important for the region and aligns with Council’s advocacy priorities to cement the Sunshine Coast as one of Australia’s most advanced economies, anchored by technology and innovation.”
Students will dive into essential topics like leadership, critical and creative thinking and industry connections.
The first Masterclass, to be held on June 4 at Altitude Nine, Maroochydore, will be themed around ‘Future Leaders’.
Insights from world record pilot
The masterclass will be delivered by Lachie Smart a world record pilot, top Australian emerging leadership speaker and CEO of Smartline Medical, based on the Sunshine Coast.
When Lachie was just 18 years old, he became the youngest person to fly solo around the world in a single-engine aircraft.
Now an in-demand speaker, Lachie said he had developed this masterclass specifically for young people to enable them to realise their potential.
“I’m super excited to bring the Future Leaders Workshop to the Sunshine Coast. We have some exciting things in store,” Mr Smart said.
Telstra Regional Engagement Manager Matt Thornton said he was proud to support the program.
“We aim to educate the students, not only about technology and innovation, entrepreneurship and business skills, but also have them understand that world-class ideas and businesses don’t have to be based in major cities to be successful,” Mr Thornton said.
How students can apply
The Masterclass Series is open to Sunshine Coast students in Years 8 to 10.
Places are limited and participation is by Expression of Interest (EOI).
Interested students are encouraged to apply via www.studysunshinecoast.com.au or speak to their school coordinator.
EOI Opens: Wednesday, April 30
EOI Closes: Friday, May 9
Successful Applicants Notified: Monday, May 12
First Masterclass Event: Wednesday, June 4
Each selected participant will receive a certificate of participation, and a Telstra tech goodie bag.