About the Oceanic Nutrition Leadership Platform
ONLP was established to strengthen leadership capacity within the Oceania nutrition workforce. Participants come from a wide range of sectors including academia, research, healthcare, government, industry and community organisations.
The programme focuses on leadership, communication, collaboration, systems thinking and social responsibility. Participants develop practical skills that enable them to influence change and create positive impacts within their organisations, communities and countries.
Since the inaugural course in 2016, ONLP has developed a growing alumni network of nutrition leaders working throughout Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.
Our Purpose
Food and nutrition systems across Oceania face increasing environmental, social and economic challenges. Addressing these challenges requires leaders who can work across disciplines, cultures, sectors and geographical boundaries.
ONLP was established to strengthen leadership capability and foster regional collaboration among nutrition professionals who are passionate about improving food and nutrition security throughout Oceania.
By building the capacity of emerging and established leaders, ONLP contributes to a stronger, more connected nutrition workforce capable of driving sustainable change.
Our Vision
Working together towards sustainable food and nutrition security for Oceania by developing, inspiring and connecting a new generation of visionary leaders in nutrition.
Our Mission
To strengthen leadership capability, foster regional collaboration, and support a vibrant network of nutrition professionals committed to creating positive and sustainable change across Oceania.
The common themes of these programs are training in leadership, team building and communication and establishment of a network of leaders in nutrition to ensure strong impact on community nutrition and health.
Why ONLP?
Addressing food and nutrition challenges in Oceania requires more than technical expertise. Nutrition professionals increasingly need the ability to:
- lead multidisciplinary teams
- communicate effectively
- influence policy and practice
- collaborate across sectors
- work effectively across cultures and countries
ONLP was established to develop these leadership capabilities while building a connected network of professionals committed to improving food and nutrition outcomes throughout the region.
Since 2016, ONLP has delivered four leadership programmes including 88 alumni across Oceania, supporting participants from academia, research, healthcare, government, industry and NGOs, fostered collaborations that continue long after programme completion and is linked to the Global Nutrition Leadership Platform.
Governance
The Oceanic Nutrition Leadership Platform is governed through a collaborative partnership between the Nutrition Society of Australia, the Nutrition Society of New Zealand and Pacific leaders. This partnership brings together expertise and perspectives from across Oceania, supporting shared leadership, regional representation and collective decision-making. ONLP is committed to inclusive, transparent and respectful governance that recognises the diverse contexts and priorities of Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.
The Oceanic Nutrition Leadership Platform is overseen by a Management Committee comprising members representing the diversity of Oceania. Members serve three-year terms, which may be renewed, providing continuity while allowing new perspectives to contribute over time. The Management Committee is supported by working groups, including the Course Working Group, Selection Panel and Platform Networking Group, with the convenor of each group serving on the Management Committee.
Each ONLP cohort contributes new members to the Platform’s governance, strengthening connections between successive cohorts and ensuring that the leadership and perspectives of the wider ONLP community continue to shape its direction. The governance structure is modelled on that of the Nutrition Society of Australia.
Meet some of the ONLP Team
Professor Sheila Skeaff
Chair, Management Committee