The story, structure, and soul behind YLAA’s National Tour – and why it matters.
In this milestone episode, the Podclass crew celebrates 50 episodes by diving into the roots and rise of National Tour – the flagship event of the Youth Leadership Academy Australia (YLAA). From humble beginnings and cold calls to hosting 12,000+ young people each year, this is the story of ambition, access, and youth-powered impact.
Learn more about YLAA National Tour: www.ylaaus.com
Featuring the return of Emma Strudwick (former attendee turned crew member and youth leader), the episode blends behind-the-scenes insight with emotional storytelling about how one idea can shift the leadership landscape across Australia.
🔍 In This Episode
“We convinced four schools to show up – and we’ve never stopped showing up since.”
Will shares the raw, real beginnings of National Tour: calling schools during study periods, borrowing laptops, and launching the first event at 15. Listeners hear how vision, persistence, and showing up—no matter the audience size—led to a nation-wide impact.
“It’s not just about inspiration. It’s what young people do with it that counts.”
Amanda unpacks the secret sauce of National Tour: the blend of keynote energy, facilitation depth, and action-driven frameworks. This isn’t just a feel-good day—it’s a carefully designed springboard for youth-led change.
“It made me feel seen. So I said yes to more—and it changed everything.”
Emma recounts her journey from feeling inspired in the audience to now co-leading and influencing future tours. Her reflection shows how one day can ripple into a new path, a new role, and a new confidence.
🧰 Practical Strategies for Educators
🌐 Stay Connected
Join the movement at YLAA’s National Tour – tickets for 2026 are now on sale! Discover more episodes and classroom-ready insights at Podclass.
Be part of the story of student leadership, everywhere.
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