On March 22, Year 9-10 students from Billanook College, Aitken College, Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School (PEGS), and Cornish College, joined and gathered at Wesley Place for a dynamic leadership event: ‘Power and Relationships: joining together for a just world’.
The event brought together 47 young leaders for a powerful day of conversations, connection and reflection to explore the power they hold and how they can harness it to drive meaningful change in their communities.
Key outcomes
Hosted by the Synod for the Associated Schools Network, this event was one in a series of inter-school gatherings designed to spark inspiration. Students were encouraged to look beyond titles and embrace leadership through influence, advocacy, and authentic relationships.
A strong 76 per cent of students reported feeling satisfied with the event, highlighting the fun environment and new friendships formed as the standout moments.
“The act of finding new people and learning with new people in a different environment is fun” — Aitken College student
“Being able to discuss topics I’m passionate about and meeting with speakers to hear their stories” — PEGS student
Memorable moments
- Setting the stage:
Adrian Pyle, Director of Chaplaincy & Relationships at the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, opened with a reflection on the UCA Characteristics—specifically how the event aligned with our values of “Justice for all Peoples and the Environment” and “Embracing diversity of faiths, cultures, and languages”. He encouraged students to see this space as an opportunity to listen, connect, and learn from the stories of our two guest speakers, gaining insights into the exciting path of advocacy and working toward positive change in the world. - Leadership and relationships:
Aileen Muldoon, GM of Community & External Relations at Uniting Vic.Tas, was the first keynote speaker. She shared stories from her advocacy work and highlighted remarkable campaigns led by Uniting, emphasising how relationships played a key role in their success. Her session was accompanied by a leadership workshop where students, working in mixed groups, built towers using marshmallows in a fun yet complex scenario—learning that leadership isn’t about standing out in front, but about listening, connecting, and moving forward with others.
Aileen Muldoon, GM Community & External Relations at Uniting Vic.Tas, shared a powerful message.
- Community power and advocacy
The second session began with a lesson on advocacy and allyship—exploring how students can raise their voices for causes they care deeply about. Sureka Goringe, CEO of UnitingWorld, then delivered a keynote highlighting global social programs and the importance of using personal privilege for good. She encouraged students to stay aware, remain engaged, and become catalysts for change—pursuing career paths that align with both their passions and the world’s needs.
Sureka Goringe, CEO at UnitingWorld, spoke at the leadership event.
- Together for a just world
Third Culture Australia, our training partner, wrapped up the day with a collaborative workshop that kept the energy high. Students worked together to identify issues within their schools and co-ideated initiatives for a more just and inclusive community.
Capturing the day
The event combined conversations with laughter and new connections — demonstrating that leadership power grows when young people connect with purpose.
