Emma Waheed
(She / Her)
Leadership Program Manager
Sector Development Unit
Emma leads Safe and Equal’s executive and senior leadership portfolio, designing new initiatives and systems that strengthen leadership capability across the family violence and intersecting sectors. This includes the development of Lead + Adapt, a sector-first leadership program delivered to over 150 leaders, and the statewide Leadership Network, now connecting more than 475 leaders.
Emma works closely with government, evaluation and design partners to ensure Safe and Equal’s leadership offerings are evidence-informed, responsive and future-focused. She is deeply committed to building impactful initiatives and driving strategic, equity-centred capability building.
Emma has led national leadership programs at Teach For Australia and built sector initiatives across education, social impact and public policy. Known for taking projects from concept to execution, she brings expertise in strategy, leadership, learning design, program management, coaching, facilitation and evaluation – with a strong focus on equity and systems change.
I believe that leadership, learning, and community are powerful tools for change and I care deeply about the people behind the systems. Ending family and gender-based violence requires courageous leadership and collective care. I’m passionate about leadership that is purposeful, collaborative and grounded in cultural safety and feel honoured to contribute to a more just and equitable future.