Noosa students are invited to step up and explore their leadership potential with the 2026 Mayor’s Telstra Innovation Masterclass Series. Open to Years 8 to 10 across the Sunshine Coast, the program is designed to inspire and equip the next generation of leaders.
Following the success of the inaugural 2025 program, which saw participants report a 31 per cent increase in leadership confidence, this year’s Series offers two tailored experiences: the Future Entrepreneurial Leaders Masterclass and Future Leaders: IMPACT.
The first workshop helps students discover their leadership style, strengthen confidence and explore future industries, while the second session focuses on practical influence, showing how decisions, behaviours and ideas can create momentum in teams, communities and emerging ventures.
Facilitated through Study Sunshine Coast including Noosa.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Natoli said the program reflects Council’s commitment to nurturing local talent.
“Last year’s results showed clearly that when we invest in our young people, they rise to the challenge,” she said. “This Masterclass Series gives students the chance to hear from industry experts, build confidence, and learn how to transform their ideas into action.”
Telstra Regional Engagement Manager Matthew Thornton added that the program helps unlock the extraordinary talent of Sunshine Coast youth, while world-record-setting pilot and acclaimed leadership educator Lachie Smart will again lead the sessions. Lachie, who at 18 became the youngest person to fly solo around the world in a single-engine aircraft, has designed the Future Entrepreneurial Leaders Masterclass specifically for Sunshine Coast students.
“I’m thrilled to be delivering this year’s program,” Mr Smart said. “The Sunshine Coast is full of young people with all kinds of ideas, and this Masterclass gives them the tools to turn those ideas into action.”
Expressions of interest open Wednesday 25 February 2026 and close 16 March 2026, with successful applicants notified on 18 March 2026. Masterclass events will be held at Altitude Nine, Sunshine Coast Council City Hall, Maroochydore on 29 April (Future Entrepreneurial Leaders) and 22 July (Future Leaders: IMPACT).
Places are limited. Students, parents, carers and educators can register online at Study Sunshine Coast
to secure their spot.
This series is set to inspire Noosa’s young leaders, giving them practical skills, confidence and the opportunity to connect with peers and industry experts while shaping the future of the region.
