In Australia, people under 18 can’t be directors and therefore can’t serve on boards. This is set out by the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), section 201B. 

So Corrugated Iron Youth Arts set up their Champions program. Zoe Scrogings, Executive Producer and CEO, believes it provides opportunities for young people to be at the forefront of decision-making within the organisation. 

The program, which has become a key part of the organisation’s governance model, is built on four core values.  

Championing youth participation  

1. Reciprocity 

The board and Champions share a two-way relationship. The board shares updates with Champions. Champions share their opinions in return. Board members will also attend Champions meetings to connect and listen. 

2. Self-determination 

Since the program started, different cohorts have moved through the program. Each Champions group determines their own culture and updates the processes to suit them. 

3. Training and capacity 

The program sees members come together and learn practical skills like how to run their own projects, facilitate meetings and write minutes. These are practical skills that build confidence and leadership.   

4. Many ways to be heard  

Corrugated Iron also holds an annual Vision Day. This involves everyone coming together to ‘share a meal and dream up the future,’ explains Zoe. This helps shape the organisation’s strategic plan for the year and its goals. Corrugated Iron is also looking to set up observerships and training to help young First Nations people contribute to governance. 

Key learnings

• Offer different ways for people to participate: Not everyone wants to get involved in the same way. Provide different options to make governance more accessible and inclusive. 
• Invest in youth leadership development: Training helps young people build confidence and skills. Practical experience is just as important. Leading projects and running meetings can help build these skills.  
• Support self-determination: Give young people the freedom to shape their own ways of working. This empowers them and lets them chart their own course.   
• Reflect community values in decision-making: Good governance reflects the priorities, experiences and goals of the communities the organisation serves. Get regular feedback from your community, so decisions continue to reflect their needs.  
• Create a welcoming governance culture: Find ways to make governance programs and structures inclusive. Simple ways include using clear and simple language and being considerate with when you meet, how frequently and where. People are more likely to contribute when they feel comfortable, respected and valued.