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Applications are now open for the 2026 Fespa Leaders Program – a professional and personal development program that fosters individuals who show leadership skills and who will be next in line to contribute to the future of Australia’s print industry.
Now in its fifth year, the Fespa Leaders Program has evolved as a leadership program which targets early to mid-career professionals across the print, signage and graphics industry, providing participants with professional development opportunities typically available only to senior executives.
The program was launched in 2022 with its focus on personal and professional development allowing people to reach their full potential.
Fespa Australia president Nigel Davies said, “We are mindful that we are looking for true future leaders. Those people who are a talent in themselves, those that are open, creative, inquisitive, and passionate about our industry. It’s only through collective action and working together that we can face the challenges of the future”.
Short-listed applicants attend a two-day workshop facilitated by corporate leadership coach Carl Harman where participants learn how to build leadership skills while forming connections with peers from diverse industry backgrounds.
At the conclusion of the workshop, two program graduates are voted by their peers to represent Fespa Australia at Fespa Munich in April 2027, connecting with industry professionals across 37 national associations worldwide. The program precedes the Fespa Annual Conference, allowing participants to apply their learning immediately while engaging with industry experts on key topics regarding leadership.
Applicants to the program can be working in a wide range of businesses across the industry including printers, manufacturers, and suppliers. People with diverse backgrounds, those who have a disability, and people in regional or remote areas are also encouraged to apply. There’s no application fee to apply for the program but if people are short-listed and selected to attend the two-day workshop, a course fee of $250 will apply, plus travel and accommodation costs will need to be covered by the employer or the applicant.
Connecting Brands general manager Nicole Lemke – 2025 Cohort: “I can’t recommend the Fespa Leaders Program enough. I was lucky enough to be part of the 2025 cohort, and it’s honestly been one of the best professional development opportunities I’ve had. Beyond the leadership content, the biggest takeaway for me was the people. I’ve made some incredible connections with others across our industry, and those relationships have continued well beyond the program.
“It has challenged the way I think, built my confidence, and given me a network of people I know I’ll stay connected with for years to come. If you’ve been thinking about applying, I’d absolutely encourage you to throw your hat in the ring. You never know where it might lead. Huge thanks to everyone involved in making it such a worthwhile experience. I feel incredibly grateful to have been part of it.”
IVE Group account manager Rahul Reddy – 2024 Cohort: “The Fespa Leaders Program exceeded all expectations. I gained practical tools to improve communication and relationship building. The cohort was inspiring with talented, driven individuals shaping the industry’s future. The camaraderie and shared learning made it unforgettable. I’m excited to apply these insights and see what’s next for Fespa’s leaders.”
Applications for the 2025 Fespa Leaders Program close on 1 August 2026. Program details and applications are available at www.fespaaustralia.org.au/leaders or email membership@fespaaustralia.org.au.
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