New program upskills female leaders in transport and logistics
A new leadership program funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade under its South Asia Regional Infrastructure Connectivity initiative aims to address gender equity in the sector.
Melbourne Business School and the University of Melbourne has collaborated with the South Asia Regional Infrastructure Connectivity (SARIC) for a training program to tackle gender equity in male-dominated industries.
The Trailblazers program funded by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) under SARIC is designed to upskill leaders in transport and logistics across South Asia and address critical shortages of women in leadership positions.
Melbourne Business School Dean Jenny George said the program would usher in a new era of leadership that championed women’s voices and their contributions to the transport and logistics industries.
“Women in transport and logistics face many industry-specific and cultural barriers including systemic gender biases, limited access to mentorship opportunities and challenges in negotiating power dynamics,” Professor George said.
The two-week face-to-face program aims to address these issues head-on by providing participants with effective leadership strategies, negotiation techniques and valuable professional networks.
“We have crafted a program that will challenge, inspire and connect participants with industry leaders and government officials while providing a supportive environment for reflection and personal development.”
Participants will engage in expert-led workshops, interactive sessions and site visits to leading organisations where they will explore Inclusive Workplace Culture: promoting Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) initiatives and gain practical insights.
The Trailblazers in Transport & Logistics: Empowering and Connecting Women Leaders program will be led by Program Director and Organisational Psychologist Jackie Watkins who has over 30 years' experience in leadership and organisational consulting and coaching.
Associate Professor Derlie Mateo Babiano and founder of the Women in Transport Leadership knowledge network is the program’s Industry Academic Lead and will take the lead for industry and networking activities throughout the program.
“Our dedicated team in Melbourne is committed to ensuring the learner experience is both enriching and transformative. We are excited to welcome the selected cohort to our school and our community,” Professor George said.
The first program runs from 28 July to 8 August 2025.
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