More than 230 leaders from across Australia have taken part in a leadership initiative designed to strengthen community organisations, encourage grassroots innovation and build a more collaborative approach to philanthropy.
LaunchPad Leadership, the flagship programme of Australian Jewish Funders (AJF), brings together philanthropists, community leaders and activists to explore challenges facing the Australian Jewish community and develop practical ways to address them.
At its 2025 retreat in the Macedon Ranges, more than 50 participants gathered over three days to exchange ideas, build relationships and explore opportunities for innovation and collaboration. The programme’s sixth cohort broadened participation to include community activists alongside established leaders and philanthropic professionals.
Since its launch in 2013, LaunchPad has invested in 233 leaders representing 152 organisations across Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Hobart and Canberra. Its network has helped generate initiatives addressing social isolation, inclusion and youth leadership.
Among these is Flying Fox, a not-for-profit organisation that creates social opportunities for young people with and without disability. Another example is the JAM Project, run under the National Council of Jewish Women, which supports Year 9 girls to develop confidence and leadership skills through mentoring.
Tracie Olcha, CEO of Australian Jewish Funders, said the programme was established to explore what innovation could look like in Jewish life and how both established organisations and grassroots movements could be supported to create change.
She also advocates a broader understanding of philanthropy that extends beyond financial donations to include people’s time, skills, relationships and commitment to causes.
For AJF, strengthening community leadership is closely linked to improving the impact of philanthropy. The organisation works to connect funders, community organisations and social activists, helping them identify shared challenges and develop solutions together.
LaunchPad has also evolved in response to changing circumstances. It moved online during the COVID-19 pandemic and later adapted its approach to support community leaders navigating the uncertainty and pressures that followed the October 7 attacks.
Olcha said investing in people and leadership helps build the infrastructure communities need to thrive. She has also highlighted the need for greater investment in professional development, particularly opportunities that strengthen leadership, practical skills and networks.
The programme reflects a wider approach to community development: bringing different voices together, supporting emerging ideas and helping people turn shared concerns into initiatives that deliver tangible benefits.
By investing in leadership and collaboration, Australian Jewish Funders aims to strengthen the capacity of community organisations and create more opportunities for individuals to contribute to the future of their communities.
