Under the program, Year 11 students from across Cabonne Shire, which includes Canowindra, have the chance to be a part of a new mentoring experience with leaders from various sectors of the community and along the way discover what career opportunities are available here in the region.

RDA Central West CEO, Sam Harma said 10 youth leaders from Cabonne, Orange and Blayney will be partnered with 10 community champions for a unique two-way conversation and mentorship.

"TEN4TEN allows successful students from high schools in Orange, Blayney and Cabonne to connect with 10 inspiring community leaders in a way like never before," said Mr Harma.

"The program will start with a meet and greet event, followed by a dinner, and students will also be invited to a Business Leaders Breakfast hosted by RDA Central West.

"We have ten fantastic mentors that have come on board including Federal Member for Calare, Andrew Gee MP; State Member for Orange, Phil Donato MP; Mayor of Orange, Cr Reg Kidd; Chair of RDA Central West, Christine Weston and MSM Milling's Brand and Marketing Manager - Genya Miller."

Over the course of the program, the successful students will connect with and learn from the program's mentors and also visit Australian Parliament House in Canberra and Parliament of NSW in Sydney where they will be hosted by the local members.

"If a program such as TEN4TEN was offered to me as a Year 11 student it would be something I would be really interested in and apply for," Mr. Harma added.

"I believe there is great value in the program, especially for senior students as they prepare to enter Year 12 and consider life after school. Our mentors can talk to them about what opportunities are available locally but also help them navigate this important chapter."

Students are invited to apply by outlining why they believe they should be selected to take part in the program in 100 words or less. Applications close Friday, 19 June 2020 and can be submitted online via the RDA Central West website at https://rdacentralwest.org.au/projects/

For more information you can email RDA Central West at grants@rdacentralwest.org.au.