Our history
Historically, women have been, and continue to be significantly under-represented in formal leadership roles across many sectors of our community, despite comprising just over half of Australia’s population.
In response to the growing demand for a unified national strategy, the She Leads project was launched in 2013 to establish cohesive leadership pathways for women and non-binary individuals in Canberra.
In response to the growing demand for a unified national strategy, the She Leads project was launched in 2013 to establish cohesive leadership pathways for women and non-binary individuals in Canberra.
Our Values
Activation
Amplifying the voices of emerging leaders to confidently shape their impact and lead with intention.
Community
Forging community ties and establishing a network of industry experts and professional facilitators.
Development
Closing knowledge gaps by equipping future leaders with the skills they need.
Inclusivity
Encouraging women and non-binary individuals across sectors and identities to embrace and advance their leadership strengths.
Our Facilitators
Our experienced facilitators are subject matter experts with years of experience, leading the way in their fields and industries. Learn more about the leaders who are here to help you unlock your potential.
Angie Ford
Vanessa Vanderhoek
Tania Willis
Laura Taylor
Our Team
Pip Northam
Leadership Programs Coordinator
Pip is an experienced Trainer and Assessor with over 17 years of expertise in leadership, community engagement, community services, and education. As part of YWCA Canberra, she delivers the She Leads Diploma of Leadership and Management, empowering women and individuals from diverse backgrounds to step into their leadership potential. Throughout her career, Pip has led teams and services across various sectors, aligning with strategic goals and cultivating collaborative work environments.
Vicki McGaw
Education and Training Unit Manager
Vicki leads our education and training unit and has over 13 years’ experience in vocational education and training in the not-for-profit sector. Since joining YWCA Canberra has mastered a range of diverse roles including finance administration, program coordination, and now leads our team of trainers and assessors. As a part of her role as the Education and Training Unit manager, Vicki oversees all aspects of the She Leads Diploma of Leadership and Management – from curriculum to student experience. When she isn’t in the office, Vicki can be found in her garden or running half marathons.
Our approach
She Leads is proudly managed by YWCA Canberra, an organisation committed to creating opportunities for women and gender-diverse people to thrive. YWCA Canberra is also part of a global movement through our connection to World YWCA aligning with international efforts to advance gender equality and amplify women’s voices in leadership.
Our programs are grounded in a feminist consultation methodology, ensuring that leadership development is inclusive, empowering and designed to challenge systemic barriers. Through this approach, we create safe and supportive spaces where participants can learn, connect, and grow.
Our programs are grounded in a feminist consultation methodology, ensuring that leadership development is inclusive, empowering and designed to challenge systemic barriers. Through this approach, we create safe and supportive spaces where participants can learn, connect, and grow.
