What is the Program?

The Observership Program provides individuals (aged between 25-40 years) with the opportunity to be observers and attend not for profit boards for 12 months. It was developed by a man called Jonathan Gavshon in 2012 who had a strong background in investment banking. He was inspired by his involvement in a similar program where he was an observer on the Board of Jewish Education for Greater New York. This experience encouraged him to form the Observership Program with the aim of advancing the skills, contribution and planning of non-profit boards.

Participants of the program are chosen through a selection process and are provided with governance training before being partnered up with an organisation. They’re present at all board and committee meetings as non-voting members where they’ll gain an extensive knowledge of the important fundamentals and principles of not for profit boards, the roles of board members, fiscal processes, and other governance responsibilities.

Becoming an observer is a valuable experience

One of the best aspects of this program is that it offers the individuals practical experience in how board meetings operate and how decisions are made. The thorough training and mentoring provides them with the necessary skills to participate in the board meetings and develop their own career.

Organisations will also benefit

Participating organisations will gain the next generation’s expertise and knowledge at their board meetings, as well as also improving their board renewal strategies without requiring a long-term commitment from members. Organisations are a part of the observer selection process, which means they can assist in choosing participants who will best improve the diversity and skills of their board. The program increases community awareness and encourages an understanding of the financial and greater needs of the organisation to a different demographic. The program is modelled off a two-year pilot and is valued by non-profit organisations and observers who have provided positive feedback. It provides support and excellence in non-profit governance and is beneficial to our society.

The program is also based on a similar and fruitful program in the USA, which has been running for several years. The program enables individuals to gain experience and knowledge working with community leaders, while also enabling non-profit boards to obtain a new board member on a trial basis.

The Observership Program is currently only available in Melbourne and Sydney, but there has been some discussion of it becoming available nationally. Hopefully, the program will be available Australia wide shortly so everyone can experience the benefits. If you would like to participate in the program, you can apply through their website where you’ll be guided through the application process.