A Stawell business owner has described participation in a Wimmera program at the core of a burgeoning regional business network as `life-changing'.
Graphic designer Jackie Peacock said the Leadership Wimmera program designed specifically for business owners and decision makers had been eye-opening and an exercise in self-understanding.
``I've learnt a lot about myself, what I'm good at and where I need to improve. It's also been about building relationships, establishing networks and helping each other.''
Ms Peacock, who grew up in St Arnaud, started Jacpea Graphic Design almost two years ago. She joined 11 other participants in Leadership Wimmera's Business Leaders program this year to fuel a desire to improve her management skills.
``I wanted to improve my skills as a business owner and to learn as much as I could from others involved. And that's what's happened,'' she said.
This year's Business Leaders program involves people from a broad cross-section of Wimmera industries.
Participants range from jewellery and hairdressing business owners to pharmacy and agriculture-industry managers.
Leadership Wimmera, operating under Wimmera Development Association, runs three leadership programs. This year's participants are about halfway through their programs and graduate in November.
Leading Teams Australia, a Melbourne-based firm with high-profile clients including Hawthorn Football Club, has been delivering the Leadership Wimmera programs since 2006.
Facilitator Kraig Grime said the program concept was about developing personal growth and pushing people out of their comfort zones.
``The growth in individuals this year has been quite evident and we're already getting reports back about how they are changing the way they do business,'' he said.
``They are very keen and engaging and we as facilitators can't help but feel privileged to watch them overcome concerns that might be holding them back.''
Mr Grime, a behavioural-change specialist with more than 20 years of military experience, said Leadership Wimmera's passion for regional leadership development helped `significantly' in program delivery.
``They are always there providing support,'' he said.
Leadership Wimmera coordinator Anne Bothe said the Business Leaders program focused on helping people develop skills to take their enterprise `to the next level'.
``Developing strong business networks across the Wimmera, Grampians and Southern Mallee is also a major part of it all. The networks are growing and people are sharing information which can only benefit the region as a whole,'' she said.
``Last year's graduates have maintained or developed their networks beyond the programs and this year's group is doing the same thing. They're all keen to reinforce relationships and explore opportunities.''
She said feedback was overwhelmingly positive. One participant wrote: ``The program has encouraged me to challenge my belief systems in a positive, exciting and enjoyable way, resulting in greater clarity towards the achievement of my own personal goals and those of my employer.''
Ms Bothe said anyone seeking information on any of the programs could either call her on 5381 6504 or visit website www.wda.org.au.
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