Lessons from the National Leadership Forum at Parliament House

At Deakin Residential Services, we are committed to providing meaningful leadership opportunities through our Residential Leader program and a wide range of events and workshops.

This month, two of our Residential Leaders — Angus from our Waterfront Campus and Bhava from Burwood — travelled to Canberra to represent DeakinRes at the National Leadership Forum. Both were nominated by staff for their outstanding contributions this year.

The Forum brought together emerging leaders from across Australia for a program designed to challenge, inspire, and connect. Angus and Bhava returned with powerful stories about leadership, self-discovery, and service. Both returned with powerful stories about leadership, self-discovery and service. 

For Angus, the Forum was life-changing.

It’s honestly hard to put into words just how much it reshaped the way I think about leadership,” he reflected. “The Forum isn’t about adding another line to your résumé. Its purpose is far deeper: to reflect on what it truly means to lead.

The event featured an impressive line-up of speakers, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Opposition Leader Susan Ley, Olympian Mack Horton, and social entrepreneur Audette Exel AO. Despite their different paths, all shared a common message: leadership is not about being extraordinary. It is about acting with courage and staying true to what you believe in.

Angus’ Reflections: Leadership Built on Service and Connection

For Angus, the most meaningful moments came in quiet settings. One highlight was volunteering in a local community garden.

It reminded me that even small acts of service can make a huge difference,

Angus

He also spoke about the power of connection.

“People who were strangers on Thursday morning quickly became sources of wisdom, encouragement, and perspective. It reminded me that leadership is built on connection — on listening, sharing, and being willing to show vulnerability.”

Bhava’s Journey: Finding Strength in Courage and Authenticity

Bhava admitted she felt unsure of herself at the start. “Walking into that room in Canberra, I felt so small I wanted to disappear” she admitted. But encouragement came quickly. “On that very first morning, someone said: ‘You are here at the right time, for a reason’ and by the end of the Conference, I realised it was true.” 

She shared how stories of courage from some of the key-note speakers deeply shaped her; hearing and realising that their courage “wasn’t abstract. It was lived. It was love in action.” 

One message stood out in particular —the Prime Minister’s words:

Kindness is not weakness. It is resilience. It is what keeps humanity alive.

For Bhava, this message hit home. “The parts of myself I’ve tried so hard to bury - my stubbornness, my emotions, my intensity - are not my flaws. They are the very pulse of my leadership.” 

Not all lessons came in serious moments. A highlight was the Conference barn dance, where laughter, music and shared joy reminded her of the power of community. “Just one community, breathing in rhythm, connected by hope,” she recalled. 

Lessons in Leadership, Connection and Courage

Both Angus and Bhava left Canberra with enduring lessons. Angus shared: 

• “Leadership starts with humanity — see the person before the title.” 

• “You don’t need the perfect plan — just take the first step.” 

• “The best results come when your motives align with those you serve.” 

Bhava left with a renewed belief in persistence and belief in herself that she was

Stubborn enough to be kind when it would be easier to turn away. Stubborn enough to believe in myself, especially when doubt feels louder than truth.

Together, their reflections highlight the Forum’s message: leadership is not about titles or perfection. It is about walking alongside others with kindness, courage and authenticity.  

We are incredibly proud of Angus and Bhava for representing Deakin Residential Services at this national event. Their participation demonstrates the strength and character of our residential community and specifically our Residential Leadership program. Both leaders have brought back inspiration and insight that will enrich our students and staff alike. Their experiences show the power of stepping up, embracing growth and leading with heart.

They remind us that the future of leadership lies not in recognition, but in the courage to serve. We look forward to their continued contributions to our residential community and beyond.