Taking a power trip!
Post by the incredible Eliza, one of our 2017 leadership competition winners.
When I reflect back on my recent time in Canberra, it seems that no matter what other opportunities I get in life, none of them could compare to the Power Trip. I still find myself stunned by the amazing time I had. I believe this trip taught me skills and life lessons that will significantly influence my future life choices and make me a better person for the experience.
Before I embarked on the Power Trip I was nervous. I was nervous that I was going on a trip with 13 girls that I had never met and I was nervous that I was going to be meeting such important role models to not only me, but the nation. Now, looking back, I am delighted to say that my nerves were for nothing, as I have formed friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.
The four days we had in Canberra were busy. Each day was crammed with exciting guest speakers, tours, fun activities, leadership guidance and career encouragement, with highlights including a tour of Parliament House meeting lots of influential women.
Initially when we arrived in Canberra, we spent time getting to know each other and learning about what to expect throughout the duration of our Power Trip. The next day we had a leadership day where many of skills we learnt I have already put into practice, and I knew that I would be using them constantly throughout the rest of my day. The leadership day also meant that we were able to learn more about each other and get to understand each others’ values.
We were fortunate to visit the War Memorial which was a humbling experience. It really put into perspective the incredible sacrifices people have made and are still making today, as well as the incredible courage, leadership and resilience displayed by so many during times of conflict. We shared dinner that night with girl groups from Canberra where we got to meet more people who shared the same passions and interests as us.
The third day of our trip was possibly one of the best days of my life! Firstly, we started with high tea at the Hyatt Hotel with many different influential women, from politicians to CEOs of companies. It was incredible being able to mix and mingle with these wonderful, motivated, talented ladies who helped us realise the different ways that women can hold power. Then we went to parliament house and ran around like crazy people! I had to pinch myself because it’s not every day you get to have lunch with our local members of Parliament, meet Julie Bishop, watch Question Time or even meet Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.
Disappointingly our fourth and final day came, and I don’t think there was any girl who wanted to go home. After three amazing, inspirational days we were going home and our heads and hearts were full of inspirational information and skills that we couldn’t wait to put into practice when we returned to our old lives. I don’t think we realised how hard it would be to say goodbye after just four days of knowing each other, but we are looking forward to being able to continue to build on the amazing friendships we forged.
I would encourage every girl my age to consider the Country to Canberra experience, and to be a part of driving change in our country. My advice would be to not sit back and watch other people get those chances in life, but to put yourself forward and create your own chances. I did and look what happened to me!
And finally, to the team, to Hannah the CEO and all the Country to Canberra volunteers, the sponsors and the everyone behind the scenes – you guys rock! Without your enthusiasm and hard work, young girls would never get to experience this once in a lifetime opportunity. Your vision, efforts and passion are what made this a “Power Trip” of a lifetime.