Perth, WA – 23 May 2025
WACCC CEO, Louise Clunies-Ross, attended the Waratah Program WA launch event on 23 May. Held at the University of Western Australia, the launch event drew an inspiring group of leaders from politics, academia, business, and community sectors. Distinguished guests included the Hon. Colin Barnett AC, former Premier of Western Australia; Senator Fatima Payman; Professor Amanda Davies, Head of UWA’s School of Social Sciences; Councillor Annisa Li Zhang; and Mr James Clarke, President of the Australia China Business Council WA Branch.
Also in attendance was Mr Ron Sao, representing the Hon. Dr Tony Buti, Minister for Education, alongside numerous councillors, university colleagues, and community and business leaders—all united in their support for a more inclusive leadership landscape in WA.
The Waratah Program WA is a program dedicated to fostering inclusive and diverse leadership in Western Australia. The program is the fruit of a significant partnership between the Asian Leadership Foundation and UWA, a collaboration between academia and community to empower a new generation of leaders that reflect the diversity of Western Australia.
Dr Maggie Ying Jiang from UWA’s School of Social Sciences, who spearheaded the program, highlighted the importance of the program in bridging gaps and building leadership capacity that embraces multiculturalism and diverse perspectives. “The Waratah Program WA is about creating pathways for emerging leaders from all walks of life,” she said. “It’s a powerful reminder that by working together—across sectors and communities—we can shape a more equitable and representative future.”
The launch was not only a celebration of the program’s beginnings but also a call to action. With strong institutional and community backing, the Waratah Program WA is set to become a cornerstone of leadership development in the state, equipping participants with the skills, networks, and confidence to lead with impact.
To apply or learn more about the program, click here.
