Pivotal is today announcing a new Policy Leadership Development Programme, an 8-week project to engage young people between the ages of 18 and 25 in the world of public policy. Participants will have the opportunity to speak with inspiring individuals, develop key research and policy skills, and produce a shared briefing paper on an issue that matters to them.
The PLDP aims to foster the next generation of leaders in Northern Ireland, by equipping them with the skills to have an impact on policy. The programme will help young adults highlight their shared policy concerns, and give them an opportunity to make their voices heard. Affordability of housing, the condition of the health service, the availability of good quality jobs, and the state of the environment affect everybody, and have a particular relevance for young people who are studying or in the early stages of their careers. The PLDP provides a space to consider these issues, work across community divides, and propose ways to improve our society.
Participants will hear from today’s leaders across different sectors, exploring the options for careers that are opened up in policy roles. They will take a closer look at the actions of Northern Ireland Executive departments, and, together, they will research and work on various topics of their own choosing, developing analysis, proposals and recommendations.
Applications for the programme will be open for 18-25 year olds from all communities and backgrounds. Pivotal particularly welcomes applications from people from different educational and employment backgrounds, who will bring a range of experiences to the programme. Whether you have experience in policy, are interested in a future career in policy, or are keen to learn more about policy and how it is developed, then we strongly encourage you to apply. The 8-week programme will be run twice, in autumn 2025 and spring 2026. Application forms for the autumn cohort will be available in August.
Pivotal is an independent think tank which aims to engage and involve more people in policy discussion in Northern Ireland. The content and delivery of this programme will be offered on that basis, without alignment to any political party, ideology or constitutional position.
Keep an eye on our website and our social media (X, LinkedIn, Bluesky) for more details.
