Stronger communities, stronger futures: How do diverse young leaders strengthen rural communities?
Malala Yousafzai, born in Mingora, Pakistan, elected as the United Nations Messenger of Peace 2017 and an inspiration to girls across the planet. Oprah Winfrey, grew up in Kosciusko, Mississippi, now The Great American Business Leader of the 20th Century (Harvard Business School) and arguably one of the most influential female figures of all time. Taylor Swift, from West Reading Pennsylvania, a record smashing artist who uses her power and influence to advocate for gender equality and to highlight political and economic issues. What do all these powerful, inspirational figures have in common? They were all born and raised in rural communities, growing up to achieve distinguished leadership roles, becoming globally recognised for championing diversity.

Rural communities in our country are diverse geographically, socially and culturally, however all these communities have their foundations built on relationships and these relationships rely on embracing the diversity which exists in our rural communities. Australia is labelled as one of the most diverse countries in the world, but how can we be provided that label and have crucial decisions made for communities without all the members of the community represented? For all voices to be heard, diversity amongst our leaders is absolutely vital and will create a stronger future for Australia as a whole.

Rural communities in our country often lack the infrastructure and economic investment in comparison to larger cities and are in desperate need for a new generation of leaders to advocate for the entire community. Leaders that come from urbanised cities simply cannot advocate for remote and regional areas in the way a local could. Having local issues passionately campaigned for and regional communities feeling heard reiterates the importance of recognition and acknowledgment of diverse rural leaders. Diversity in leadership styles, values and viewpoints are tremendously important in assisting rural leaders and communities moving forward. Representing all of the people who are the fabric of these places, as they advance in economic, social, and cultural progression together. Different life experiences, skill sets and voices need to be heard, acknowledged and celebrated as diversity in leadership can only encourage more equitable opportunities for everybody, empowering communities socially, culturally and economically.

Diversity throughout leadership positions blasts through stereotypes revolving around culture, gender, ethnicity, and age, strengthening rural communities significantly. It is vital for everyone living in economically regressed communities in Australia to see and hear themselves recognised nationwide, and see their culture, ethnicity and religion reflected in their young leaders. Somewhere in a remote community is a young girl, longing to be recognised and reflected publicly and her daily struggles to be acted upon. By having diverse leaders, that young girl will feel confident and empowered knowing she is being represented and the whole of Australia is hearing of her struggles too. Empowerment for rural communities is empowerment of Australia as a whole.