On November 28, 2023, Salaam hosted its inaugural Student Leadership Day at the Ernst & Young offices in Sydney’s central business district. The event gathered senior students and educators from Islamic schools across New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. It aimed to provide young people with unique exposure to ideas, professional environments, and role models that they often do not encounter.
The initiative emerged from discussions with school leaders and educators, as well as feedback from the Muslim community regarding the need for a practical approach to leadership education. Participants frequently expressed concerns that while students excelled academically, many felt uncertain about how to navigate real-world leadership roles and professional environments while remaining true to their faith and values.
Student Leadership Day was designed not as a motivational lecture or career fair, but as a serious platform for engagement. The choice of venue, Ernst & Young, was intentional. It allowed students to see Muslim professionals confidently occupying senior roles, challenging stereotypes about their potential and place in the professional landscape.
Program Highlights and Engagement
The day’s agenda was carefully structured to cover various dimensions of leadership. It began with a session focused on leadership, influence, and purpose, emphasizing how values and clarity shape decision-making. This was followed by a workshop on confidence and public speaking, which many students identified as essential yet intimidating skills.
Later in the morning, students participated in a session on problem-solving and decision-making. They explored how leaders assess trade-offs, take responsibility, and think beyond immediate outcomes. A standout moment was the panel discussion featuring Muslim leaders from diverse fields, including business and public life. Rather than offering polished success stories, panelists candidly shared their experiences with uncertainty and setbacks, allowing students to engage in genuine dialogue.
The day concluded with a reflective session, encouraging students to consider not only their aspirations but also the type of individuals they wish to become. As the day progressed, the atmosphere transformed. Initially reserved, students became increasingly engaged, asking insightful questions and expressing their thoughts with growing confidence. Educators noted that they witnessed facets of their students that rarely surfaced in traditional classroom settings.
During breaks, informal conversations flourished. Students discussed career paths they had not previously contemplated, while educators reflected on leadership frameworks to implement in their schools. Many students remarked that the experience altered their perceptions of their own potential.
Looking Ahead: Building on Success
This first Student Leadership Day provided valuable insights for future initiatives. Feedback from participating schools highlighted logistical considerations, travel coordination, and suggestions for enhancing interactivity in subsequent programs. This constructive input is welcomed as it demonstrates trust and a shared commitment to developing future events.
There is a clear appetite for expanding this initiative. Several schools expressed interest in establishing deeper engagement, mentoring pathways, and the possibility of longer programs. Students requested more time with speakers and opportunities for smaller group discussions to foster ongoing relationships.
The Student Leadership Day is not intended to be a standalone event but rather part of a larger commitment to nurture the intellectual, professional, and ethical development of young Australian Muslims. At Salaam, leadership is viewed not merely as a title but as a responsibility rooted in values, self-awareness, and service to others.
The event’s success, reflected in the enthusiasm and ambition of the students, reinforces the belief that investing in their futures is essential. Salaam extends its gratitude to Ernst & Young for hosting the event, to the educators for their trust, to the speakers for their generosity, and to the students for their curiosity and engagement.
With this foundation, Salaam is optimistic about the future and looks forward to continuing this journey of empowerment.
