• Location: North Melbourne, Victoria / Remote
• Term: Renewed annually, no term limits
• Time Commitment: Approximately 5-10 hours per month, including board meetings, committee meetings, and event attendance.

About RNLC

The River Nile Learning Centre (RNLC) is a not-for-profit organisation that provides a free and safe learning space for women from refugee, asylum seeker and migrant backgrounds to build skills, confidence and independence. Many of our students are unable to access formal education or employment programs due to age, visa status or personal circumstances. RNLC offers foundation English, numeracy and digital literacy classes alongside food relief, transport cards, wellbeing activities and social support. Our flexible, trauma-informed approach ensures we meet the individual needs of each student and their families.

Position Summary

RNLC is seeking dedicated individuals to join our Board of Directors and contribute to our mission of empowering women from asylum seeker, refugee and migrant backgrounds to thrive. Board Directors play a crucial role in providing guidance and oversight, ensuring the organisation's sustainability, and ensuring the best support for the women we serve. We are particularly interested in individuals who are passionate about supporting others and can bring valuable insights from their professional or community involvement.

Why Join Us

• Make a meaningful contribution to the lives of refugee, asylum seeker and migrant women in Melbourne.
• Play a leadership role in a passionate, values-driven not-for-profit organisation.
• Develop and strengthen your governance, strategic and leadership skills.
• Build your professional network and connect with like-minded people across the NFP and community sector.
• Gain or deepen experience in board governance, financial oversight and organisational strategy.
• Contribute your expertise to an organisation where it will have real and visible impact.
• Be part of a collaborative and dedicated team committed to gender equality and social justice.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Implementation:

• Contribute to the effective implementation of RNLC's current strategic plan.
• Offer knowledge and experience to guide the organisation's activities.
• Assist in the development and review of organisational policies.
• Organisational Oversight:
• Contribute to sound financial management and ensure accountability.
• Participate in board meetings and actively engage in board activities.
• Work collaboratively with fellow board members and the RNLC team of staff and volunteers.

Community Connection and Advocacy:

• Represent RNLC within the broader community and build positive relationships.
• Support the organisation's efforts to raise awareness and advocate for the needs of the women we serve.
• Participate in community engagement activities.

Selection Criteria

• Demonstrated commitment to RNLC's mission, vision, and values.
• Relevant experience and skills in one or more of the areas with the required Board Skills Matrix at Appendix 1, noting priority areas.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A collaborative and team-oriented approach.
• Commitment to ethical conduct, integrity, and confidentiality.
• Lived experience of seeking asylum, refuge, migration or systemic marginalisation, or strong connection to these communities

Desirable Attributes

• Lived experience as a refugee, asylum seeker or migrant
• Passion for women’s empowerment and gender equity
• Connections within Melbourne’s community or not for profit sector
• Experience in community-based organisations
• Previous board or governance experience
• Willingness to participate in ongoing governance training and professional development

A position description is attached.