High school leaders descend on USQ

Year 12 student leaders from the local area descended on USQ's Springfield campus recently for the University's Youth Leadership Programme.

More than 40 students from Ipswich and Brisbane schools attended the one-day event aimed at assisting senior students in becoming good leaders.

USQ Springfield Director Doug Fraser said the day helped school leaders inspire their peers and to represent their school with dignity.'

'As part of the day, students heard an inspiring story from successful 24 year-old USQ Alumni and entrepreneur Adam Penberthy," Mr Fraser said.
 
'Adam began his first commercial IT business at age 13 and employed his first full time staff member to run the company at the age of 15, while he was still in high school.

'He graduated from USQ in 2006 with a degree in marketing and public relations and has now developed a successful Generation Y marketing consultancy called Fresh.'

Mr Fraser said Adam was a powerful example of what hard work and initiative could achieve and a fantastic role model for the students.

'Adam spoke to them about his own story and leadership experiences as a student, business owner, manager and traveller and some of the challenges he faced along the way.

'He was a very enthusiastic speaker and someone the students could really identify with, being a member of Generation Y himself.'

Mr Fraser said the students were also led through sessions on defining the qualities of a good leader and learned how to be great communicators and dynamic public speakers.

'The focus of the day was to develop good leadership skills with a focus on inclusiveness.

'USQ feels privileged to be able to host an event that helps students to realise their potential.'

Students from the following schools participated in Leadership Day; Bremer State High School, Woodcrest College, Centenary State High School, Ipswich Girls Grammar, Forest Lake College, St Mary's College, The Springfield College, and St Peters Lutheran College

Media Contact:  Jo-Ann Sparrow, USQ Media, +61 7 3470 4119 or 0428 102 979