Addis Ababa workshop empowers alumnae to elevate leadership potential and navigate career challenges

On 6 August 2026, Michael Moryosef, the Acting Deputy Head of Mission at the Australian Embassy in Addis Ababa, officially opened the Professional Workshop for Female Alumni, themed Elevate Your Leadership Potential, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. In his opening remarks, Mr Moryosef congratulated the participants on their selection for this competitive opportunity and reaffirmed the Australian Government’s strong commitment to gender equality.

Held over two days on 06 and 07 August 2026, the highly interactive and participant‑centred workshop brought together 19 Australia Awards alumnae from 13 African countries, alongside representatives from Australia Awards Africa and the Australian Embassy. The capacity‑building program was organised by Australia Awards Africa and curated and facilitated by well‑known Ethiopian presenter Ms. Tabitha John. A broadcast journalist, news anchor, master of ceremonies, moderator, and facilitator, Ms. John brings extensive experience in television news and high‑level live events that engage diverse audiences.

The workshop formed part of Australia Awards Africa’s ongoing efforts to support alumnae in taking up leadership roles and addressing common challenges faced during reintegration into the workplace upon returning home. These challenges often affect alumnae’s ability to successfully implement their Reintegration Action Plans (RAPs). The workshop had two key objectives: first, to strengthen alumnae’s leadership and reintegration skills while addressing barriers such as limited organisational support and workplace resistance; and second, to prepare participants for senior and decision‑making roles by advancing skills in leadership coaching, negotiation, perseverance, strategic communication, and career planning.

To support meaningful engagement during the workshop, participants completed a pre‑workshop reflection pack consisting of five preparatory activities. Each alumna was also asked to bring an object symbolising her personal and professional career journey, which served as a powerful reflective and storytelling tool throughout the sessions.

During the workshop, participants openly discussed the career and personal challenges they face, including gender bias and workplace discrimination, limited access to leadership opportunities, organisational and structural constraints, and a lack of mentorship and professional visibility. To empower alumnae to navigate these challenges more effectively, the program explored a range of practical and strategic themes, including leadership visibility, negotiation and influence, self‑advocacy, strategic communication, sponsorship and network‑building, and overcoming internal barriers related to confidence, leadership identity, and perseverance.

The sessions were delivered through peer‑coaching circles, real‑life scenario role‑playing, practical frameworks and tools, and guided self‑assessment and action‑planning exercises. These interactive methods encouraged collaboration, reflection, and the application of learning to real‑world contexts.

At the conclusion of the workshop, all participants developed practical 90‑day action plans aligned with their individual Reintegration Action Plans (RAPs) and personal career objectives.