At Engage Marine, investing in our people is a cornerstone of our success. Over the past year, we’ve been proud to run the Empower Program, a tailored initiative designed to nurture leadership capabilities, foster personal growth, and align our team with Engage Marine’s strategic vision. The program has brought together 16 Leaders from across Australia, including members of our Executive team and managers, for a year-long journey of development and collaboration.
What is the Empower Program?
The Empower Program is built on the principles of positive psychology, neuroscience, and leadership research. It equips participants with practical tools and strategies to enhance self-awareness, communication, and career development while promoting lifelong wellbeing.
Each quarter, the cohort has gathered for two-day sessions, balancing operational strategy and formal development. Day one focuses on Engage Marine’s internal initiatives, discussing strategy, goals, and opportunities for innovation. Day two is dedicated to the Empower Program, providing a forum for participants to refine their leadership capabilities and build sustainable career plans. The program has also included guest speakers ranging from industry leaders to union officials, offering insights into leadership and resilience.
A Powerful Conclusion with Ellie Cole
The final day of the Empower Program coincided with International Day of People with Disability on 3 December, an occasion to reflect on diversity and inclusion. To mark this milestone, Engage Marine was honoured to host Ellie Cole, a celebrated Paralympian, newsreader, and advocate for resilience and determination. Ellie shared her inspiring journey of overcoming challenges, achieving excellence, and leading change—parallels that resonate deeply with Engage Marine’s own ethos.
Her insights left a profound impact on the cohort, highlighting the importance of perseverance and the power of a growth mindset in navigating both professional and personal challenges. Ellie’s session served as a fitting conclusion to a year of transformative growth, motivating participants to apply their learnings and continue their journey as leaders within Engage Marine.
Key Takeaways from the Empower Program
- Leadership and Self-Awareness: Participants explored personal strengths and blind spots, improving their communication effectiveness and building confidence.
- Wellbeing Focus: Strategies for achieving mind-body alignment and creating sustainable habits were central to the program.
- Career Development: Cohort members worked on crafting actionable career plans, aligned with their personal goals and Engage Marine’s vision.
- Networking and Collaboration: The small-group format fostered a supportive environment where participants could share experiences and learn from one another.
A Commitment to Growth
The Empower Program reflects Engage Marine’s dedication to fostering talent and supporting future leaders. It’s not just about professional development—it’s about empowering individuals to thrive in their careers and contribute meaningfully to the organisation and the wider maritime industry.
As we look ahead, Engage Marine remains committed to initiatives like Empower, which strengthen our team, drive innovation, and embody our mission to "Lead Change."
