Last week, the Churchill Trust officially welcomed the 2025 cohort of Churchill Fellows at our National Onboarding event held in Canberra. The multi-day program brought together new Fellows from across Australia, marking the beginning of their international research journeys — each aimed at tackling critical challenges and sharing innovative solutions for the benefit of all Australians.
The event not only introduced Fellows to the values and responsibilities of the Churchill Fellowship but also provided a unique opportunity for cross-sector networking, peer collaboration, and professional development along with some incredible wisdom from Churchill Fellows already in the next part of their Fellowship journeys.
A Warm Welcome and Inspiring Keynote
The program opened with a welcome dinner, where new Fellows and guests were formally greeted by Trust Chair Richard Roylance CF, (1995) who reflected on the 60-year legacy of the Churchill Fellowship and its continued relevance in solving modern problems through global learning.
The room was warmly welcomed by Aunty Caroline Hughes who spoke about the importance of The Trust and the impact each Fellow makes during their Fellowship as well as acknowledging the 14 Indigenous Fellows who have been awarded a Churchill Fellowship for 2025.
One of the other highlights of the night was a special address by Her Excellency Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, and Patron-in-Chief of the Churchill Trust. Her Excellency spoke of the power of the Fellows to create change, the connection between Fellows from previous years and how their work is continuing and the joy of celebrating 60 years – a milestone she also shares with the Trust this year.
Her words affirmed the significance of the Fellowship in Australia’s community landscape and the unique opportunity it provides for individuals to fulfil Sir Winston’s legacy to travel the world, learn best practice and bring that knowledge home for the benefit of all Australians.
To end the evening on a high note, we had three Churchill Fellows share their Point Of View about their own individual Fellowships. All three were incredibly open, honest and authentic in relaying their achievements and challenges during their travel and report part of their journey.
Thank you to; Mairead Doyle CF (2024), Stephen Robinson CF (2020) and Melissa Smith (2023) for their involvement in the night.
Building Knowledge and Networks
The main onboarding day featured a rich lineup of workshops, skill-building sessions, and strategic discussions. Sessions were tailored to help Fellows make the most of their time abroad and increase the impact of their work on return.
Key sessions included:
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Crafting an Elevator Pitch – led by Anna Marshall
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Stakeholder Engagement – with Nigel Nutt
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Dancing with the System – Professor Deborah Blackman guided Fellows through the intricacies of navigating government systems
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Mastering your Message – presented by Michelle Ainsworth CF PSM (2023)
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Wellbeing during Fellowship travel – led by Robyn Lewis CF (2020)
Fellows also heard from the Churchill Trust’s staff, including CEO Chris Dacey about the importance of the investment made in each Fellow as well as Fellowship Liaison – Maddie Garrett, Media and Comms – Dianne Cotter and Reporting – Nicola Raymond on planning and logistics, as well as the expectations and support available throughout their Fellowships.
Looking Forward: A Network of Purpose
The onboarding event also facilitated lasting connections between Fellows, representatives of the Churchill Fellows Associations, and members of the Board. It created a collaborative environment that set the tone for the year ahead.
As Churchill Fellowships continue to support Australians across all walks of life — from rural healthcare and mental health reform to sustainability, education, and justice — this year’s cohort is poised to contribute powerful insights that will shape policy, practice, and communities nationwide.
For more information about the 2025 Churchill Fellows and their projects, click HERE.
