Masterclass series ready to inspire future leaders
The 2026 Mayor’s Telstra Innovation Masterclass Series is now open, and Sunshine Coast schools are invited to submit expressions of interest for students in Years 8 to 10.
The Masterclass delivered measurable outcomes for Sunshine Coast youth last year (2025), with students reporting a 31 per cent increase in leadership confidence following the one-day program.
Building on the success of last year’s inaugural program, the 2026 Series invites young people to participate in the “Future Entrepreneurial Leaders” Masterclass.
This is a tailored leadership experience designed to help students discover their own leadership style, strengthen their confidence and expand their understanding of future industries.
The second workshop, Future Leaders: IMPACT will build on the foundations of entrepreneurial leadership and turns the focus toward practical influence.
This session is designed to help students understand how their decisions, behaviours and ideas create momentum in teams, communities and emerging ventures.
Facilitated through Study Sunshine Coast, the delivery of the Mayor’s Telstra Innovation Masterclass series is a key action of the Sunshine Coast Regional Economic Development Strategy, which aims to support youth development and innovation initiatives that foster talent and skills for the future.
Rising to the challenge
Sunshine Coast Mayor Natoli said she was proud to support the program as it reflected Council’s commitment to nurturing local talent and empowering the next generation of leaders.
“Last year’s results showed clearly that when we invest in our young people, they rise to the challenge,” Mayor Natoli said.
“This Masterclass Series gives students the chance to hear from industry experts, build confidence, and learn how to transform their ideas into action.”
Delivered as a partnership between Council, Telstra and Study Sunshine Coast, the Masterclass Series will connect students with leaders from innovative and emerging sectors through targeted sessions covering:
- Leadership development
- Critical and creative thinking
- Industry insights and real-world problem solving
Students will have the opportunity to explore big ideas, collaborate with peers from across the region and gain valuable skills that support their future pathways. They even get an opportunity to meet the Mayor!
Telstra Regional Engagement Manager Matthew Thornton said this was a unique opportunity for students to think boldly about who they want to become.
“We know the Sunshine Coast is home to extraordinary young talent — and this program helps unlock it,” Mr Thornton said.
Speaking from experience
This year’s Masterclass will once again be led by Lachie Smart — world record setting pilot, acclaimed youth leadership speaker and Chief Operating Officer of The End Game.
At just 18, Lachie became the youngest person ever to fly solo around the world in a single engine aircraft, an achievement that continues to inspire young people globally. Today, he is recognised as one of Australia’s most dynamic emerging leadership educators, working with schools, businesses and organisations to help people unlock their potential.
Lachie has designed the Future Entrepreneurial Leaders Masterclass specifically for Sunshine Coast students, and will guide them in identifying their strengths, building confidence and creating a vision for their future.
“I’m thrilled to be delivering this year’s program,” Mr Smart said.
“The Sunshine Coast is full of young people with all kinds of ideas, and this Masterclass gives them the tools to turn those ideas into action.”
How to get involved
The Masterclass Series is open to Sunshine Coast students in Years 8 to 10.
EOI opens: Wednesday 25 February 2026
EOI closes: 16 March 2026
Successful applicants notified: 18 March 2026
Masterclass events: Altitude Nine, Sunshine Coast Council City Hall, Maroochydore
29 April, 8.30am-3.30pm - Future Entrepreneurial Leaders Masterclass
22 July, 8.30am-3.30pm - Future Leaders: IMPACT
Places are limited and participation is by Expression of Interest (EOI).
Educators, students, parents and carers can register interest online:
