Lessons from Newcastle's Not-For-Profit Leaders
Recently, I had the privilege of attending another inspiring Newcastle Business Club event—this time spotlighting the heart of our region’s not-for-profit sector. But what I witnessed went far beyond sector insights. It was a live demonstration of what I call Steward Eldership in action.
The panel featured powerful, purpose-led voices:
Claudia Tolhurst, Executive Officer of Hunter Melanoma Foundation
Richard Jones, Head of Community Engagement, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (someone I’ve always admired and respected since my 20’s when I was a Public Relations Officer for John Hunter Hospital).
Rick Prosser, CEO of Soul Hub
The event was masterfully chaired by Coralie Nichols, whose quiet yet profound leadership and tongue in cheek questions commanded the panel and the room for what was a rich conversation.
Together, they embodied a style of leadership not driven by ego, power, or profit—but by care, connection, and community. They spoke of Purpose, Impact, and Sustainability not as buzzwords but as lived values. As I listened, I couldn’t help but see these as the very cornerstones of Steward Eldership.
What is Steward Eldership?
Steward Eldership is the evolution of leadership beyond management or even inspiration. It is the conscious choice to lead with responsibility, wisdom, humility, and long-view thinking. These are the leaders who don’t need to use force to dominate rooms— their presence is enough. All of them a demonstration not of titles but of serving the mission.
Where the Two Worlds Meet
The not-for-profit leaders on this panel don’t just lead their organisations—they steward ecosystems of hope. Whether they’re rescuing lives, funding critical research, or providing dignity through human connection, their leadership is grounded in something rare: the willingness to take time to build relationships, to listen deeply, and to act with unwavering integrity.
What I saw on that stage wasn’t just service. It was stewardship. And it reminded me that we don’t need a title to lead this way.
Thank you to the panellists for showing us what true, conscious leadership looks like. The future doesn’t just need leaders. It needs stewards.