The Club Mudgee program pairs promising young people from local schools with mentors from the community, helping the students to identify and reach their personal goals.

The coaches and young people met for the first time last month, to meet one-on-one with their coaches and get ready for their personal leadership coaching sessions.

Mel Hanger has replaced Fiona Brown as the coordinator this year. Ms Brown ran the program for five years, but stepped down from the position after relocating from the region.

Ms Hanger is excited about her new role and group of participants.

“We’ve got a whole bunch of young people that are really enthusiastic and keen to be there.

“It was a great vibe.

The first day included a look at the meaning of authentic success and the process of coaching, and an exercise encouraging participants to think laterally and work smarter, not just harder.

“We really focused on working towards thinking about goals and thinking outside the box, in terms of how we approach those goals in life,” Ms Hanger said.

“The participants get a lot out of the program, and a lot more than they realise at the beginning.

The program will conclude with a final showcase at Club Mudgee on the evening of Friday, July 28, when participants will showcase their community projects and the impact of Max Potential.