8 November 2023 15:08

Shelley Yacopetti appointed new National Director Australia

We are thrilled to announce that Shelley Yacopetti, who has been serving as the Interim National Director for the past four months, has been appointed as the National Director on a permanent basis. This decision was made by our esteemed CEO, Tim Arthur, recognising the exceptional leadership, dedication, and vision that Shelley has demonstrated during her time in this pivotal role. Tim says:

“It gives me immense pleasure to be able to announce that Shelley Yacopetti has agreed to take on the permanent role of National Director for RAD Australia. Shelley has a long association with the RAD and has a true passion for supporting our members and for expanding the work we do in Australia. Throughout her career, she has held various roles including performing artist, academic lecturer, dance educator, manager and executive. She has been steeped in the dance world for nearly 30 years. On behalf of the whole RAD I wish her and the whole Australian team luck. I know how proud she is to be leading our Australian operations and I know she'll be a huge success.”

Shelley Yacopetti brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise in the field of dance education. Prior to her interim appointment, she has held key positions within the Royal Academy of Dance Australia as Regional Manager for WA and as Head of Department- Faculty of Education, showcasing her commitment to nurturing the development of dancers and teachers at all levels and fostering strong relationships with stakeholders across the community. Her deep understanding of dance pedagogy and her continued pursuit of excellence have made her a respected figure within the dance industry.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be leading the team at RAD Australia as National Director in a permanent capacity having been in an interim role now for four months. I am very proud of the Australian team and what we have achieved together already and look forward to working with them and our panel of examiners, tutors and members to continue to grow and strengthen RAD Australia.

As the National Director, I endeavour to embrace growth and new ideas, encourage the use of new technologies and find ways to be creatively innovative but I also aim to remain connected to our members needs and build on our proud history and connections to ensure the longevity of RAD in Australia.”

Shelley's permanent appointment as the National Director ensures a new period of continuity and progress for RAD Australia. Over the past four months, she has already made significant strides in bringing the community together and ushering in new projects for the organisation. Her dedication to empowering dance educators, uplifting the quality of dance training, and creating opportunities for Australian members will shape our vision for the organisation.

As the National Director, Shelley Yacopetti is poised to lead RAD Australia towards Tim Arthur’s One RAD, a vision of global collaboration and expansion. With her unwavering commitment to growth and a vision for the future, Shelley will spearhead strategic initiatives to promote inclusivity, diversity, and innovation in dance education across the nation, while bringing together and leading the RAD Australia team to provide new levels of customer service for all.

Her collaborative approach fosters strong relationships with dance schools, educators, and members, ensuring that the Royal Academy of Dance Australia remains at the forefront of the industry. Under Shelley's guidance, we will continue to provide exceptional training opportunities, performance opportunities, and prepare aspiring dancers and teachers for successful careers in the industry.

Please join us in extending our warmest congratulations to Shelley on her appointment as the National Director of the Royal Academy of Dance Australia. We have no doubt that her visionary leadership, steadfast commitment to excellence, and passion for dance will drive us towards even greater success. Exciting times lie ahead, and we invite you to be a part of this remarkable journey with us.