I have used the insights in all facets of my life; as a facilitator, group member, leader, life partner, brother, and more recently as a Local Councillor within a political party.

Mike McEvoy, City of Yarra Councillor

Mike McEvoy is an alumnus of our 2016 Polykala Leadership Intensive program, in this post, we catch up on Mike’s work and how he’s using the training.

Tell us about your work in the world…

Councillor (Greens), City of Yarra – progressing social justice and environmental sustainability at a local level.

Melbourne Playback Theatre – provides experiential training and performances to organisations in the community and corporate sectors.

Self Advocacy Resource Unit, Voice at the Table – provides practical training and resources to government and community organisations to increase the civic engagement of people with cognitive disabilities.

Why did you decide to do the Polykala Leadership Intensive?  

I was hungry for some professional development that would extend my facilitation practice and provide personal insights into my leadership more generally.

What were your expectations going into the program?

I had been told it was intensive and it was important that I create headspace before, during and after to process and ‘recover’. That created some expectations. Other than that, all I had was a basic level understanding of the Adaptive Leadership model.

What were the key things you took away from the program?

Courage. And insight into myself as a system within a system.

What was the most surprising thing about the program for you?

It’s hard to be surprised when you’re expecting the unexpected! The food was a comfort and a real highlight.

How have you used what you learnt in the Adaptive Leadership program?

I have used the insights in all facets of my life; as a facilitator, group member, leader, life partner, brother, and more recently as a Local Councillor within a political party. Sometimes I’m as clumsy as a bull in a China shop, other times I feel like I’m in flow – but whatever the case, I’m up on the balcony more often and I’m listening more than I speak.

What’s one piece of advice you would offer someone who is considering doing the program?

Have a clear sense about where you’d like to see leadership and how you’d like to develop – and be open to insights you didn’t expect.