Our Projects

The Youth Futures Network delivers impactful projects across New South Wales by working in close partnership with our members and their organisations. By combining statewide reach with local expertise, we support and enhance government and industry-led workplace learning initiatives that prepare young people for the future of work.

Our initiatives create meaningful pathways to further education, training, and skill development, engaging the next generation of working Australians and strengthening communities across the state.

Youth Futures Network
CEO Professional Development Series

This CEO session series has been shaped by feedback from members and recent survey, highlighting a shared need to focus on risk, financial sustainability, and future capability. In response, the series brings together three targeted sessions designed to support not-for-profit leaders to navigate an increasingly complex operating environment.

Each session will provide practical insights, real-world examples, and the opportunity for peer discussion, ensuring the content is both relevant and immediately applicable. Together, the series aims to strengthen organisational resilience, support more sustainable operating models, and build confidence in responding to emerging challenges and opportunities.

Topic 1: Cyber Security & Privacy Laws for Not-for-Profits

As not-for-profits increasingly rely on digital systems and data, understanding privacy obligations, recent legislative changes, and cyber risk is no longer optional. Recent reforms to Australia’s Privacy Act have introduced stronger protections, increased regulatory powers, and new legal avenues for individuals to take action over privacy breaches.

This session will focus on what CEOs need to know about data protection, evolving legal responsibilities, and managing risk in real-world settings. Participants will gain a clear understanding of where organisations are most exposed, what must be in place, and how to confidently manage data, systems, and compliance in an increasingly demanding regulatory environment.

Topic 2: Building Financial Strength & Diversity in Not-for-Profits

With growing pressure on traditional funding streams, not-for-profits must look beyond grants and ask “what else is possible?” This session will explore practical ways to identify and develop alternative revenue streams, including social enterprises, fee-for-service models, and opportunities to better leverage existing assets and capabilities.

Led by White Box Enterprises, this will be a facilitated, roundtable-style session, not a formal presentation — giving CEOs the opportunity to share ideas, test thinking, and explore real opportunities together. The focus will be on what works in practice, helping leaders uncover new ways to generate income and build long-term financial strength within their organisations.

Topic 3: AI in the Workplace: Where It Fits in the Not-for-Profit Sector

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping how organisations operate, but where does it fit in the not-for-profit context? This session will explore how AI can be applied to improve efficiency, support decision-making, and enhance service delivery, while also considering the risks, limitations, and ethical considerations.

Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of practical use cases, where AI can add value, and how to approach adoption in a measured and strategic way.

Powering Next-Gen Tech Talent with AWS

Since 2020, we’ve partnered with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and AWS Educate to deliver NSW’s largest virtual work placement for Year 11/12 VET Cert II IDT students.

275 students • 36 high schools • 50 AWS volunteers • 1 week of placements

Impact: Hands-on cloud projects, global mentoring, and clear pathways into tech for metro, regional and remote students.