Braving minus four degree temperatures in the Aussie wilderness was just one of the challenges students from across Australia braved as part of Outward Bound Australia’s National Aspiring Leaders Summit.

Thirty up-and-coming leaders from around Australia were chosen to participate in the annual summit, which is one of the country’s premier leadership events open to youth supported by The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program and supported by The Trust Company as Trustee for the Fred P. Archer Charitable Trust.

Held over seven days at Outward Bound’s National Base in the ACT, the summit included residential leadership workshops and a journey-based expedition that saw students trek through national park, participate in rock climbing, abseiling and ropes course activities and a series of physical and mental challenges that will empower them to realise they are capable of more than they may think.

As part of the Summit, the participants also identified a community action project they would like to engage with upon return to their school or community.  The program helped give students the skills and confidence to seek support and resources that will help their community project become successfully.

Chief Executive Officer of The Smith Family, Dr Lisa O’Brien, said the Summit provides an example of the scope of learning opportunities offered to students across Australia to ensure they reach their full potential.

“The Smith Family is pleased to partner with Outward Bound for this venture which provides a unique and special opportunity for the young delegates to explore their leadership talents, and motivate themselves to share their new skills and make a difference within their own communities,” Dr O’Brien said.

Outward Bound Australia CEO Benjamin Farinazzo says the National Aspiring Leaders Summit is always a highlight of Outward Bound’s calendar.

“The confidence the young people gain during their week at the Aspiring Leaders Summit with Outward Bound is extraordinary,” Mr Farinazzo said.

“Their drive and commitment to making a difference in their community is inspiring to see.

“We’re pleased to be working in collaboration with The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program through the generous support from The Trust Company through their engaged philanthropy program and feel that our joint effort on the NALS program works towards both organisation’s missions to ensure all young Australians have access to education opportunities that help them achieve their full potential.”

About The Smith Family

The Smith Family is a national charity helping young Australians in need to get the most out of their education, so they can create better futures for themselves.

The Smith Family’s Winter Appeal is now underway. To donate, call 1800 024 069 or visit  www.thesmithfamily.co.au.

About The Trust Company

The Trust Company is one of Australia’s foremost trustee companies, offering trustee services for individuals, companies and charitable trusts from our offices in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore.

The Trust Company Group has around A$900 billion in charitable funds under administration. Currently serving as trustee for over 800 charitable trusts, this includes the Marten Bequest Travelling Scholarships and the Portia Geach Memorial Award. The Trust Company has recently launched a new Engaged Philanthropy program, designed to create lasting social impact in the community. This is led by 17 strategic partnerships with key non-profit organisations across the sector.