In 2025, the course welcomed one of its largest and most engaged cohorts yet, with 4,952 total enrolments, a 32% increase from last year.
Now in its sixth year, Learn to Lead continues to equip UNSW alumni, staff and students with the tools, insights and confidence to lead in a fast-evolving world.
This year’s theme, Strategic Thinking for Impactful Leadership, focused on helping participants lead with clarity, confidence and vision amid global uncertainty and was guided by Academic Lead and UNSW inaugural Dean of Lifelong Learning, Professor Nick Wailes with expert UNSW academics.
The 2025 course attracted a truly global community of learners, including returning alumna Susan-Baird Joshi, Principal of US-based consultancy CaliberA LLC. A five-time participant, she says the course consistently delivers future-focused, practical value.
“I enrolled because I always learn what’s on the cutting edge of business and what to anticipate in the next 24 months."
For Susan, the value of Learn to Lead lies not only in the content but in the community.
“There’s a balance of men and women, academics and professionals. I love knowing what’s current and future in Australia because it mirrors the United States where I live and shines a lens on the rest of the world. It’s really a global student body.”
This global perspective has helped Susan bring fresh thinking to her work, from leveraging AI in research, to evaluating ESG and carbon ratings in corporate reports.
“I regularly bring up ways to increase engagement and lower carbon footprints. And in informal relationships, I share what I’ve learned and invite others to do the same.”
Her philosophy of leadership is rooted in values, flexibility and shared ownership.
“Impactful leadership means making decisions that benefit humanity, and getting all parties to a win-win agreement. It’s about meeting people where they are, celebrating success, lifting others up, and giving them the space to lead.”
Baird-Joshi's commitment to lifelong learning is shared by thousands of alumni who continue to return to Learn to Lead each year.
Feedback from 2025 learners has been overwhelmingly positive. 4,952 people enrolled and more than 2,600 completed the course, a 12% increase on 2024. The course earned an overall rating of 8.6/10, with:
97% of survey respondents saying it was relevant to their work
95% recommending it to a colleague or friend
1,625 people attending the three live sessions
UNSW staff and students also made up a significant portion of participants, with 1,138 staff and 339 students joining the course, alongside 3,920 alumni (noting that many fall into more than one category).
For some, Learn to Lead stands out in its substance, and its spirit.
“You are certainly leading the way versus other universities that I’ve graduated from in Sydney,” said Veronica F, another alum.
“I’ve gained valuable tools and insights that I’m excited to apply,” said Sally Allport, a UNSW staff member who has completed the course for the second time.
To enrich this year’s course experience, Learn to Lead featured two exclusive video interviews with renowned Australian leaders. These conversations offer deeper insight into how values-based leadership and strategic thinking can drive meaningful impact at every level.
Whether you’re stepping into your first leadership role or seeking to lead with greater impact, Learn to Lead offers the UNSW community a dynamic, thoughtful space to grow your influence, and your mindset.
Missed out on this year’s course? In October we will reopen the course for anyone who would like to enrol. Update your details today to ensure you don’t miss out.