The Media Federation of Australia (MFA) has launched NGEN Management Collective Essentials and has expanded the NGEN Mentor Program.
MFA has said that both programs are built to equip participants with the practical skills, confidence and guidance needed to thrive in the industry today and in the future.
NGEN is the MFA’s flagship development program for media professionals with less than five years’ experience. Through workshops, events and hands-on learning, NGEN has seen more than 80 per cent of today’s media agency workforce having participated in the program.
The new NGEN Management Collective Essentials is an intensive eight-week capability-building program combining coaching, workshops and study, focused on developing the practical skills modern managers need. Participants who complete the program will earn certification.
Places in NGEN Management Collective Essentials are limited to maximise collaboration and impact. Participation is offered by invitation to selected NGEN members. The program is led by Lucy Allen from The Graceful Collective.
Developed in response to insights from the MFA’s recent whitepapers, The Gen Z Effect and The Workforce of the Future, the program addresses a clear shift in workforce expectations and future skill needs across the industry.
The Gen Z Effect found early-career professionals increasingly value practical and structured development and recognised credentials. The Workforce of the Future highlighted the need for adaptable leaders who can manage change, lead diverse teams and succeed in an AI-enabled workforce.
NGEN Management Collective Essentials joins the returning NGEN Mentor Program, also designed for professionals with three to five years’ experience, which has expanded significantly in 2026 following outstanding feedback from last year’s pilot.
MFA, head of NGEN and MFA Foundations, Melanie Aslanidis, said: “Professionals at the three- to five-year mark are at a crucial point in their careers – taking on more responsibility, refining their craft, and mapping out their next career steps and development priorities. That’s why we’ve designed these two programs to support them in different but complementary ways.”
“NGEN Management Collective Essentials accelerates the practical skills and confidence needed to thrive as responsibilities grow, while the Mentor Program provides trusted guidance and perspective from experienced industry leaders. Together, they reflect the MFA’s commitment to building a stronger, future-ready workforce by giving emerging talent the capability, credentials and support to advance.” Aslanidis added.
