On November 28, 2023, Salaam hosted its inaugural Student Leadership Day at the Ernst & Young offices in Sydney’s Central Business District. This event gathered senior students and educators from Islamic schools across New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland, aiming to provide young individuals with insights into leadership and professional environments that they may not frequently encounter.
The initiative was born from discussions among school leaders and educators, as well as within the broader Muslim community. Many participants expressed a common concern: while students excel academically, they often lack clarity on practical leadership, career pathways, and how to maintain their faith and values in professional settings. Salaam aimed to create a grounded and practical experience, moving beyond traditional motivational speeches and career expos.
Designing the Leadership Experience
The event’s location at Ernst & Young was intentional, serving as a powerful backdrop that showcased successful Muslim professionals in senior roles. This setting encouraged students to envision themselves in similar positions, challenging preconceived notions of their potential.
The program was structured to address various aspects of leadership. It began with a session focused on leadership, influence, and purpose, emphasizing how values and intentions shape decision-making. Students then participated in a workshop aimed at enhancing confidence and public speaking skills—areas many identified as crucial yet intimidating.
Later in the morning, a session on problem-solving and decision-making further engaged students, illustrating how leaders evaluate trade-offs and take responsibility. A particularly compelling segment was a panel discussion featuring Muslim leaders from diverse sectors, who shared candid insights about their journeys, including challenges and the discipline required for ethical leadership. This openness fostered an environment where students felt comfortable posing direct and thoughtful questions.
The day concluded with a reflective session, prompting students to contemplate not only their goals but also the kind of leaders they aspire to become.
Shifting Perspectives and Building Connections
As the day progressed, a noticeable transformation occurred. Initially reserved students began to engage more actively, asking pointed questions and exhibiting growing confidence. Educators observed sides of their students that often remained hidden in classroom settings. During breaks, informal discussions flourished, with students exploring career paths they had not previously considered and educators contemplating leadership frameworks they could implement in their schools.
A prevailing sense of possibility emerged, with many students expressing that this was the first time they felt genuinely acknowledged as future leaders. The event sparked a collective enthusiasm for further development opportunities.
Feedback from participating schools highlighted logistical insights and suggestions for enhancing interactivity in future programs. Importantly, this input demonstrated a clear appetite for ongoing initiatives. Several schools indicated interest in establishing mentoring pathways and longer engagement programs.
The Student Leadership Day is just the beginning of a broader commitment by Salaam to foster the intellectual, professional, and ethical growth of young Australian Muslims. The organization views leadership not merely as a title but as a responsibility grounded in values, self-awareness, and service to others.
As Salaam reflects on this successful event, gratitude is extended to Ernst & Young for its support, the educators who entrusted their students, and the speakers who generously shared their time and experiences. The ambition and curiosity displayed by the students signal a hopeful outlook for future endeavors. Insha’Allah, this event marks the start of a transformative journey for many young leaders.
