Shaping the Future of CALD Women in Leadership
CALD2LEAD’s 2024/25 Annual General Meeting marks a pivotal moment of growth, transition, and renewed vision. Reflecting on a year of strong achievements and impact, the AGM sets the foundation for the organisation’s next chapter—one that is led by the voices, experiences, and leadership of CALD women, and driven by a clear commitment to strengthening pathways, representation, and influence.
Building the Next Chapter of CALD2LEAD
CALD2LEAD’s 2024/25 Annual General Meeting marks a significant milestone in our continued growth, reflecting a year of achievement, strengthened governance, and bold steps toward a more inclusive leadership future.
Formal proceedings were conducted in line with our Constitution, including the adoption of the 2023/24 AGM minutes and endorsement of both the 2024/25 Annual Finance Report and Chair’s Report.
A year of Growth and Impact
The AGM highlighted a highly successful year for CALD2LEAD, including:
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5 scholarships awarded
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3 scholar graduations celebrated
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Revenue exceeding $17,500, with income over $13,000
This strong foundation has already enabled continued momentum in 2025/26, with additional scholarships delivered in partnership with Community Directors and Leadership Victoria, and new opportunities currently open for application.
Our commitment to “walking the talk” has driven significant organisational development, including:
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Introduction of key governance policies and strategic planning frameworks
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Expanded communications and LinkedIn presence
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Establishment of working groups to strengthen delivery and impact
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Implementation of evaluation tools, including pre- and post-program surveys
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Delivery of the inaugural CALD2Connect event, strengthening engagement between scholars and partners
These initiatives have directly informed our 2025 Strategy and led to the creation of the CALD2Action Working Group, focused on enhancing scholar experience and long-term impact.
Strengthening Our Foundations
A Defining Leadership Transition
In our seventh year, CALD2LEAD proudly enters a new chapter, with leadership transitioning fully to the voices and experiences of CALD women.
We warmly congratulate Sarita Narayan on her appointment as Chair—the first CALD woman and CALD2LEAD scholar to lead the organisation. This milestone represents the realisation of our co-founders’ vision and a defining moment in our journey.
Welcoming Our 2025/26 Board
The AGM saw the appointment of five new Board members, bringing exceptional diversity, expertise, and leadership:
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Continuity and momentum are further strengthened with:
Acknowledging Outgoing Board Members
We extend our deepest appreciation to Pearl Li Ng and Salima Hussaini for their outstanding contributions. Their leadership, insight and dedication have played a vital role in shaping CALD2LEAD’s direction, growth, and impact.
Chair's Message
“It’s a privilege to be nominated to serve as Board Chair. Stepping into this role is both exciting and a little nerve-wracking, but my experience working with the previous Board and our incredible scholar community has given me the confidence to take this next step.
I’m committed to building on the strong foundations laid by past Boards and expanding our work to create a true end-to-end pathway, so our scholars are not only trained, but genuinely supported to secure board roles where their leadership can shine.”
Sarita Narayan