Level up your leadership and entrepreneurial skills with LeadHers.
LeadHers is a vibrant community of women at UQ - students, staff, and alumni - who are committed to personal and professional growth. With a focus on leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurial thinking, LeadHers creates space for connection, learning, and confidence building.
Through a range of annual programs and events, women can develop new skills, expand their networks, and apply an entrepreneurial mindset to leadership in a broad range of contexts.
LeadHers is an initiative of UQ Ventures, drawing on entrepreneurial tools and ways of thinking to empower women to lead with confidence and impact.
Explore our programs and events using the tabs below to find the opportunity that’s right for you.
Join a LeadHers Fireside Chat to hear inspiring insights from women with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and career paths.
Each conversation brings fresh perspectives and ideas to spark reflection and discussion.
Being in the audience is like sitting in on a live recording of your favourite podcast; You’ll hear honest stories, gain practical insights, and have the opportunity to ask questions and connect directly with the speakers.
Fireside Chats run for 1 hour and are followed by an opportunity to network with fellow attendees.
Next panel sessions:
- Thursday 26 February, 12:00–1:30pm | UQ Saint Lucia Campus
- Wednesday 22 April, 4:00–5:30pm | UQ Saint Lucia Campus
The LeadHers Fireside Series is proudly supported by UniSuper
The LeadHers Foundation Program is a 4-week introductory program designed for students and early-career staff and alumni who want to build confidence, capability, and leadership skills.
Participants take part in weekly, interactive workshops, with each session focusing on a different skill that supports personal and professional growth.
Program topics include:
- Goal setting
- Effective communication across different mediums
- Personal brand building and networking
- Innovation for individuals and teams
In 2026, you can choose to participate in the LeadHers Foundation Program either in person at the St Lucia campus or online via Microsoft Teams.
Next programs:
- In person:
- 11 March – 1 April
Weekly sessions every Wednesday, 11:30am–1:00pm | UQ Saint Lucia Campus - 7–28 May
Weekly sessions every Thursday, 10:00am–11:30am | UQ Saint Lucia Campus
- 11 March – 1 April
- Online:
- 12 March–2 April
Weekly sessions every Thursday, 10:00am–11:30am | MS Teams - 7–28 May
Weekly sessions every Thursday, 4:00pm–5:30pm | MS Teams
- 12 March–2 April
LeadHers Staff Days are dedicated half-day events for UQ staff, designed to inspire, provide fresh insights, and foster meaningful connections.
Supported by UniSuper, each Staff Day brings together women from across the University, and includes:
- A panel discussion featuring leaders from diverse backgrounds and career paths
- A practical finance discussion with UniSuper
- An interactive workshop delivered by a guest speaker
- Morning tea and networking opportunities
Three LeadHers Staff Days are run annually. Each event showcases new speakers and workshop topics, and staff are welcome to attend multiple sessions.
Please note that LeadHers Staff Days are introductory in nature and are not intended as a comprehensive leadership program. They are ideally suited to aspiring leaders, though all UQ staff are warmly welcome to participate.
Next event: Wednesday 25 March 2026, 9.00am – 1.00pm | UQ Saint Lucia Campus
LeadHers Staff Day events are proudly supported by UniSuper
Our annual half-day LeadHers PhD event is designed specifically for current PhD students, exploring leadership, career pathways, and challenges unique to higher degree research candidates.
This event aims to inspire, offer fresh perspectives, and foster meaningful connections across the PhD community.
LeadHers PhD Day features:
- A panel discussion with leaders from diverse backgrounds who have pursued a wide range of career paths following their PhDs
- An interactive workshop delivered by an experienced guest speaker
- Networking opportunities with PhD candidates from across UQ
Next event: September 2026, Date TBC
Register your interest to receive updates about the next program
LeadHers Rise is our annual celebration of Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, held each year in late November it is an inspiring way to close out the year.
The event brings together women from across UQ and the broader Brisbane entrepreneurial ecosystem to connect, reflect, and celebrate.
Guests will hear from a prominent keynote speaker and join us as we recognise outstanding women leaders through the announcement of the LeadHers Award winners.
Next event: Thursday 19 November 2026, 8.30am – 11.30am | Venue TBC
Visit the event web page to find out more
Register your interest to receive updates about the 2026 event
Presented annually at the LeadHers Rise event, the LeadHers Awards celebrate outstanding women leaders.
From founders and student leaders to those creating meaningful change in their communities, the awards recognise women and gender diverse people who are leading with impact and purpose.
Award categories
Student Award
Recognises a current student enrolled at The University of Queensland who has demonstrated leadership capabilities through a paid or volunteer role.
Entrepreneurship Award
Recognises a woman who has developed an innovative and entrepreneurial venture. Open to all women across Queensland.
Community Award
Recognises women leaders making a positive impact in their communities. Open to all women across Queensland.
Nominations open: August 2026
Visit the awards web page to find out more
Register to receive updates and be notified when nominations open