Shaping Our Futures Together (SOFT) is a course designed for women living in regional, rural and remote NSW. It includes a wide range of learning activities with an emphasis on having fun while learning together in a supported environment. The course assists women to develop their leadership and networking skills.

As a SOFT 'graduate' you will:

• see yourself more clearly and take steps to nurture yourself and boost your self-esteem
• use visioning to write goals and set personal action plans
• Practice assertiveness and understand how attitudes and actions can affect you and others
• network more effectively.

The course program

Topics covered by SOFT include:

• Assertiveness and communication
• Building self-esteem
• Journaling
• Identifying 'shoulds' and values
• Managing change
• Mindmapping
• Networking more effectively
• Presenting to a group
• Reflecting
• Visioning
• Visualisation
• Writing SMART goals and understanding personal action planning

How can I organise a SOFT course in my area and how much would it cost?

SOFT courses are delivered throughout NSW based on demand. The courses are often conducted in partnership with community groups and other government agencies that may help cover course delivery costs.

SOFT courses can be run just about anywhere as long as there are at least 12 interested women and a local 'volunteer' coordinator to book a suitable venue and help with promotions and registrations. The workshop costs $5370 to run.

SOFT participants pay $445 which includes the course manual. Note: Costs may vary depending on where the course is held and whether funding can be sourced to help offset costs.

Testimonials

SOFT is best explained by those who have participated in the course. Here is
what some recent graduates have said:

PROfarm

SOFT can be delivered under PROfarm, the training program developed by Industry & Investment NSW to meet the needs of farmers, primary industries, agribusiness and the community.

PROfarm courses are delivered locally, by highly skilled and respected facilitators. Many of the courses are subsidised to reect the public benets provided by the adoption of more sustainable farming practices.

Information about all PROfarm courses can be found on the PROfarm website, www.profarm.com.au

Register your interest

If you would like a SOFT course to be offered in your community, contact Sonia Muir, Manager - Community Engagement Unit, I&I NSW.

• Sample SOFT timetable ( PDF 178KB)