Fostering a new generation of leaders
The Policy Leadership Development Programme (PLDP) aims to bring together the next generation of policy leaders from across the community, giving them the skills they need to make Northern Ireland a better place to live and to work for all.
It is a programme for young people aged 18-25, whether in university, further education, or the world of work. Each participant brings their unique experiences and ideas, creating a rich network of dedicated, talented and optimistic shapers, with fresh ideas and practical solutions for change.
What do we do?
The PLDP provides the chance to hear directly from current policy leaders from across Northern Ireland's public, private and voluntary sectors, to learn from their experience shaping and informing policy, and forging professional connections with leading change-makers.
Through debates and discussions about government, policy, priorities and challenges, the PLDP offers insight and learning about how Northern Ireland works from Northern Ireland's only independent public policy think tank. Pivotal's strong track record and reputation of independence, research, analysis, influence and outreach allows PLDP cohorts to hear a valued, trusted, and informed voice on the issues that matter.
Participants get the chance to develop their policy skills through expert workshops facilitated by the Pivotal team, grounded in case studies from our professional experience. These skills are put to use as participants work in groups to research and write policy briefing papers on the issues they choose, and formulate practical, workable and positive solutions and recommendations.
Connecting with current leaders
Participants in the PLDP get the chance to hear directly from leading practitioners in business, the voluntary sector, the Civil Service, campaigning and beyond.
Their experiences and advice on shaping policy help inspire and inform our cohorts.
Policy workshops
Expert workshops from the Pivotal team bring policy research skills to life, grounded in real world challenges and experiences from our own reports.
These skills are put to use in detailed and solution-oriented briefing papers on the issues that matter most to young people today.
Who can apply?
The Policy leadership Development Programme is a unique setting in which those aged 18-25 from all backgrounds, communities and experiences come together to make a difference. Whether you have years of experience in policy, or are energised to get started, the PLDP seeks to support, encourage, and equip you to become a policy leader.
Autumn 2025
Our first PLDP cohort brought together 24 young people from university, further education, the Civil Service, public affairs, teaching and education, and beyond.
Their briefing papers offer solutions to challenges including environmental protection, learning from Covid-19, educational disadvantage, wastewater infrastructure and more.
Apply to PLDP 2026
We are running a second cohort of the PLDP from 20 January to 10 March 2026. Applications close at 1pm on Monday 8 December. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity!
Click here to apply
Todd, 25 - Ulster University Economic Policy Centre, Assistant Economist
"I would say the most valuable part of my PLDP experience has been that every session has sparked a new chain of thought. Whether it be learning about entirely new structures of governance, or viewing a particular policy from a new perspective, the guests and discussions have always left me with food for thought."
Roaa, 20 - Belfast Metropolitan College, Level 3 Business
"I’ve really enjoyed being part of the programme - it’s been such a positive and inspiring experience. The sessions were always engaging, and the guest speakers in particular stood out. Hearing directly from people working in policy and leadership was incredibly motivating and helped me understand the different paths available in this field. The whole programme was supportive, welcoming, and genuinely enjoyable, and it’s given me more confidence in my own abilities and future plans."