Royal Life Saving and NSC Announce Scholarship Recipients

10 emerging leaders from the national aquatic industry and lifesaving groups have been awarded scholarships to attend this year's National Sports and Physical Activity Convention with IAKS in Melbourne from 27th to 28th June.

The scholarships, awarded by Royal Life Saving Society - Australia and the National Sports and Physical Activity Convention (NSC), will provide scholars with the opportunity to participate in global thought leader sessions, keynotes, debates, and workshops on topics related to the aquatic industry's sustainability and community wellbeing.

Advising that the scholarships were vital to nurture young leaders emerging in the aquatic industry and lifesaving, Royal Life Saving Chief Executive, Justin Scarr stated “we are excited to contribute to the development of a new generation of drowning prevention leaders through this scholarship. This award allows recipients to attend a global convention that will equip them with the tools and connections necessary to drive meaningful change in the aquatic industry..

"Congratulations to the very deserving recipients.”

National Sports and Physical Activity Convention founder and Chief Executive Martin Sheppard highlighted the significance of including these emerging leaders in the aquatic industry in the Future Leaders Program the NSC runs in partnership with VicHealth. The VicHealth Future Leaders Program at NSC provides an opportunity for young leaders to participate in and contribute to the comprehensive program for knowledge sharing and business connections to develop their careers in the industry.

Sheppard noted “the NSC (and) IAKS 2024 is the largest industry convention in the Asian-Pacific with an expected 1,550 attendees and serves as an invaluable platform for upcoming leaders to learn from experts and engage with peers.

"This experience will also allow the scholars to contribute to the advancement of sports and physical activities at a national level, and we look forward to welcoming them to the event in June."

The scholars were carefully chosen based on their career paths, endorsements from key stakeholders, and their vision for utilising the knowledge and networks they will gain at the convention. A national panel, comprising members from regional peak associations and RLSSA State and Territory Member Organisations, conducted the selection process.

National Sports and Physical Activity Convention/IAKS 2024 Scholars

• Alexie Barlow, Aquatic Operations Specialist, Greater City of Geelong

• Liv Bell, Swim Instructor, Child Protection Office, Administration, Your Bubble Education

• Katie Boland, Remote Swimming Pool Manager, Royal Life Saving Western Australia

• Richard Kraatz, Trainer and Assessor, Club Captain, City Venue Management

• Lily Money, Student Support Coordinator and Adult Learn to Swim Coordinator, UWA Sport

• Sam Powell, Facility Manager, North Lakes Aquatic Centre

• Aimee Lee Radcliffe, Aquatic Duty Manager, South Hedland Aquatic Centre & Gratwick Aquatic Centre

• Cooper Seeley, Operation Manager, Knox Leisureworks Aquatic and Recreation Centre

• Lauren Shaw, Operations Manager, Keilor East Leisure Centre

• Michaela Waaka, Industry Support Lead, Young Leaders Advisory Group Member, AUSTSWIM

Click here for more information on the National Sports and Physical Activity Convention in the Australasian Leisure Management industry Calendar.