NIE Networks has announced its support for the Centre for Democracy and Peace Building's Fellowship Programme for 2024-2025.

The Programme welcomes leaders from politics, business and civic society, boasting more than 70 alumni, including Finance Minister Caoimhe Archibald MLA. Sponsored by NIE Networks, the Programme invites 24 ambitious leaders on a transformative seven-month journey to envision and forge a prosperous future for Northern Ireland.

Its mission is to empower participants to tackle Northern Ireland’s intricate political, business, and civic issues, enhancing leaders across society to navigate complexity and drive tangible change for the greater good.

Through bespoke sessions, delivered by leaders in the top of their field including Oxford academics and diplomats, Fellows are challenged to step outside of their comfort zone and harness the spirit of possibility, tackling important issues such as climate and energy, policy and governance as well as taking part in the popular residential sessions at the University of Oxford and in Dublin.

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Fellowship Advisory Board Chair, Darragh McCarthy, said: "The Fellowship Programme speaks for itself as a fantastic platform for ambitious Northern Ireland leaders, as witnessed by the talented group of people at this year’s launch at Stormont and our partners are proud once again to support the scheme for another year.

"It is brilliant to have the support of the First and deputy First Ministers for this important programme, to recognise the potential in bringing these cohorts together to spark new conversations about the future of Northern Ireland. I look forward to seeing what unique and varied skills the next Fellows will bring and how they will shape each other for the better as leaders in society."

Derek Hynes, Managing Director of NIE Networks, said: "NIE Networks is proud to support the Centre of Democracy and Peace Building’s Fellowship Programme. We have seen how the Programme successfully brings together individuals from political, business and civic sectors to play a key role in promoting understanding and learning in leadership circles across Northern Ireland. The Fellowship Programme has a rich alumni and as an official partner for this year we look forward to seeing the talent and innovation brought to the fore from the new Fellows when they are selected."

The Fellowship Programme is supported by the Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the Irish American Partnership, as well as some of Northern Ireland’s biggest employers including Allstate NI, Camlin Group, FinTrU, Fujitsu NI, NIE Networks and Ulster Carpets.