Six cultural institutions in New South Wales, Australia, have appointed young leaders to their boards, fulfilling a key commitment under the Creative Communities policy. The new directors, aged between 18 and 28, will serve three-year terms at the Sydney Opera House, Art Gallery of NSW, Powerhouse Museum, Australian Museum, State Library of NSW, and Museums of History NSW. This initiative aims to ensure that the next generation of cultural leaders has a voice in decision-making processes.
The selection process was highly competitive, attracting nearly 1,000 submissions from almost 400 candidates. The inaugural appointees—Will, Melissa, Vivian, Elijah, Hamani, and Dylan—will undergo training with the Australian Institute of Company Directors, specifically the Foundations of DirectorshipTM (Public Sector) course. They will also receive support during their onboarding from the Advocate for Children and Young People.
Empowering the Next Generation
As members of the boards, these young leaders will hold senior membership roles in the Creative Youth Network, which advises key government ministers on matters affecting young people involved in the arts, culture, and creative industries. John Graham, the Minister for the Arts, emphasized the significance of these appointments, stating, “The overwhelming interest and calibre of candidates is a testament to the important role our Cultural Institutions play in our state.” He congratulated the appointees, highlighting that their perspectives would greatly benefit the arts community.
The Minister for Youth, Rose Jackson, echoed these sentiments, noting that young people are critical to the future of cultural institutions. “Including them on governing boards just makes sense if we want them to thrive in years to come,” Jackson remarked, reinforcing the government’s commitment to integrating young voices into cultural policy.
Focused on Representation
Zoe Robinson, the NSW Advocate for Children and Young People, expressed her enthusiasm for the new directors. She stated, “Having these incredible young people on these boards will ensure that their peers are represented in the spaces that matter.” Robinson commended the NSW Government for prioritizing the experiences and insights of young individuals in shaping the future of arts, culture, and science.
These appointments not only represent a strategic move towards inclusivity but also demonstrate a commitment to fostering the next generation of cultural leaders in New South Wales. As young directors, Will, Melissa, Vivian, Elijah, Hamani, and Dylan will bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, helping to strengthen the state’s cultural landscape for years to come.
