Australian College of Nursing Emerging Nurse Leader Programme
This blog was written by Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward CEO FACN
The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Emerging Nurse Leader (ENL) Programme recognises and develops early career nurses’ leadership skills, enabling participants to be empowered with the opportunity to be the very best they can be and lead others with the same passion. ACN recognises the potential of our future generation of nurses and strives to cultivate future nurse leaders by supporting early-career nurse leaders through a fast-tracked programme of personal and professional growth. The ENL program is designed to develop and engage emerging nurse leaders through vibrant, timely and progressive opportunities. Each participant enters into a rewarding leadership journey where, with ACN’s support, nurturing and guidance, they will grow in confidence and establish a strong career foundation and leadership direction. ENLs develop skills, build confidence, and are provided opportunities to represent the nursing profession as leaders.
In its exclusive way, the ENL programme allows individuals to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and supported environment. ENLs learn quickly what it means to be part of ACN through their participation in a range of programme activities. The opportunities are rich and varied and each journey is unique. I am proud to provide this national programme free to all successful participants, through a very competitive process. ACN is the preeminent and national leader of the nursing profession, and we believe we have a responsibility to the profession to ensure that potential nurse leaders have access to the breadth of knowledge within the profession, to influence how health care is delivered. Occupying a position of Emerging Nurse Leader provides opportunities to nurses to contribute to the profession in a way that has never been experienced before in Australia. The bonds made within the ENL programme, as well as with mentors, coaches and the ACN membership continue long after they complete the programme. Since 2012, ACN has coordinated the ENL programme, empowering nurses to launch their leadership journey early in their career.
At ACN we believe that all nurses are leaders. We love being able to develop the skills and confidence of early career nurses to enable them to excel in their role and career and we are honoured to deliver this programme into its 10th year.
To learn more about ACN and its ENL, click here.
