Empowering change: pro bono training for First Nations impact
Change management expertise benefits all organisations, but training costs can be a barrier for smaller ones. Grant Ribbink, Business Program Manager, and Peter McDowall, Principal Consultant, Adoption and Change Management at Microsoft ANZ, use their Microsoft volunteer days to deliver a pro bono three-day course, in partnership with change management industry leaders Prosci, to First Nations businesses and organisations in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
“The idea came to me in 2020, inspired by how the US commemorates the abolition of slavery each June 19. I began thinking about how we can effect change in our own communities here in Australia and New Zealand,” Peter says. Peter and Grant saw the potential for change management training to create a tangible impact on outcomes for First Nations communities.
Grant explains, “Community feedback suggests that much of what’s done for First Nations peoples is based on assumptions without enough consultation. This program educates on the change management process and equips participants with tools they can apply in their communities in ways that work for them.”
Delivering proven change models
The training incorporates Prosci’s foundational change management models: the ADKAR model (Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, Reinforcement) and PCT (Prosci Change Triangle), both proven to enhance project success. These frameworks emphasise that organisational change starts with individual change, and they focus on the critical elements of a healthy project.
“It’s about helping people transition to a better, faster way of doing things,” Peter adds. By delivering these methodologies internally and to clients, the duo helps organisations adopt new Microsoft technology effectively. They saw an opportunity to use their volunteer time, supported by pro bono sponsorship and resources from Prosci, to offer this training to organisations tied to First Nations communities. These include First Nations owned companies, social enterprises, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). The aim is to empower First Nations organisations with resources they might benefit from but that are deprioritised from an investment perspective. Peter explains, “These organisations drive societal change, promote First Nations suppliers, or directly support First Nations communities. The Prosci training gives them a framework to enhance their impact and accelerate their work.” Grant emphasises, “These proven models increase success. We’re just providing skills and tools to those best positioned to lead change.”
The training is offered annually through the Indigenous at Australia Employee Resource Group (ERG) network. The virtual, three-day course walks participants through the Prosci 3-Phase Process: preparing, managing, and sustaining change. It blends learning modules, practical exercises, and real-life project applications. Participants also gain access to online and physical resources and earn a certification, all offered pro bono by Prosci. The company plans to expand this initiative with future development programs.
Since 2020, Prosci has supported the initiative, partnering with Microsoft Australia employees to deliver the course. Scott McAllister, Prosci’s Chief Executive Officer highlights: “At Prosci, one of our core values focuses on impact and it reads ‘We are proud of the people we are, the work we do and the difference we make’. This is a shining example of our Impact value coming to life through our partnership with Microsoft.”
Supporting outcomes for First Nations organisations
Organisations like Willyama Services, a 100% First Nations owned Australia-based cybersecurity firm, and the GO Foundation, which provides scholarships for First Nations students, have benefited. Willyama Services uses the Prosci training to enhance their ability to guide clients through the technological changes associated with their products, while GO Foundation has improved its approach to engaging with educational institutions and donors.
Mary-Ann Parker, Senior Program Manager at the Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency (VACCA), applied the training to managing a long-term digital transformation project: “The Prosci program was so valuable for risk management. While many grasp the technical process of implementing our new system, the communication aspect is often overlooked. I've gained the language to convey its importance and improved my project approach. I now recognise my strengths, like engaging middle management, and areas to improve, such as post-go-live support. Overall, I’m far more confident in managing risk.”
Participant feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with attendees appreciating the practical tools and real-world applications. “People leave equipped with skills they can use immediately to improve their work and benefit their organisations,” says Grant.
Grant and Peter plan to continue the Prosci program annually. They believe the extra effort they put into preparation and follow-up is worthwhile if it contributes to greater opportunities for First Nations communities.