As part of October’s Victorian Seniors Festival 2025, COTA Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria will host an event to celebrate, inspire, and support older Victorians stepping into leadership.
We’re planning an in-person gathering to showcase the stories of older people who are making a difference in their communities, explore pathways into leadership in later-life, and offer practical advice for those interested in making a similar impact. The event will feature a keynote address, a panel discussion, video stories, and an open Q&A session.
Would you be interested in joining our panel?
We’re looking to invite a diverse group of older Victorians who have taken on leadership or influencing roles in their communities, particularly after mid-life or post-retirement. We are seeking out panelists who represent a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and leadership pathways.
This could include:
- Community leaders who have established or led local initiatives, committees, or grassroots movements.
- Volunteers in leadership roles – such as board members, coordinators, or organisers of community programs.
- Older professionals who transitioned into mentoring, advocacy, or advisory roles after their main careers.
- Culturally and linguistically diverse leaders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander elders, and people from regional or rural communities.
- Individuals who have faced and overcome barriers to leadership – including those related to ageism, accessibility, or career transitions.
We’re particularly interested in those who can speak personally about:
- Inspirations to take on a leadership role later in life.
- The skills and experiences that have been part of the journey.
- Challenges faced, and how they were overcome.
- Advice for others considering similar paths.
These speakers should feel comfortable sharing their story on camera, and optionally, in front of an audience and participating in a moderated Q&A.
If interested, please reach out to our Policy & Advocacy Manager, Marshida Kolthoff.