“It’s been inspiring to learn from others who share a similar passion for creating social good. SILA has helped recharge me for the next 20 years of my career.”
David Keegan, CEO, HOST International
SILA Cohort One Participant
Locations
Cohort Four participants from QLD and the NT are currently completing the 10-month SILA Program.
Cohort Five (2025-2026) applications for ACT and NSW CEOs will open soon.
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All costs, including transport, accommodation and meals for face-to-face activities are fully funded by the program. Additional funding is provided to regional and rural attendees, and those with accessibility requirements to support their participation.
2025 Program Timeline
- March – April: Applications open for CEOs (or equivalent) of for-purpose organisations across ACT and NSW for SILA Cohort Five.
- May – June: Shortlisted applicants are interviewed and offers are made to successful candidates.
- 1 August: Program starts with a welcome call and access to the online learning platform.
- August: Step-Up Leader (SUL) program commences. CEOs undertake leadership and wellbeing reflection assessments. The organisational capacity funding process also begins.
- 16 – 18 September: First retreat over 3 days is held, which allows for an immersive learning environment, and time to connect and reflect with your SILA peers.
- September: Both CEOs and SULs are introduced to their SILA Coach, who will provide guidance over the course of the program.
- October: Coaching continues, and ongoing small group learning circles commence for both CEOs and SULs. Preparations for the second retreat begin.
- November: Sabbatical preparations commence with the Sabbatical Toolkit and Readiness conversations with CEO, SUL and Board Member/s and SILA Lead Coach taking place.
- 18 – 21 November: Second retreat over 3.5-days in a community or place-based setting takes place.
- December – April (following year): CEOs undertake a 3-month sabbatical, with the SUL stepping into the CEO role. SUL program continues with webinars, coaching and learning circles.
- February – April: Upon return from Sabbatical, CEO, SUL and Board Member/s engage with Lead Coach for reintegration session.
- April 2026: Third retreat preparations begin and SILA Program Manager check-ins with CEOs.
- 5 – 8 May 2026: Third retreat over 3.5-days, and the program concludes.
Please note, the Monday prior to each retreat will be a travel day.
Read the full program overview here.