Hunt on for future leaders
● EAST Runcorn MP Mike Amesbury is encouraging constituents to become the next generation of leaders.
The British Council is on the lookout for exceptional candidates aged 18-35 to join a group of 50 participants from around the world in a nine-day workshop to learn from global policy experts and inspirational figures.
Last year those taking part in the Future Leaders Connect programme debated with former UN leaders Ban Ki-Moon and Kofi Annan, presented policy ideas at 10 Downing Street, and had meetings at the BBC and the Houses Of Parliament.
Future Leaders Connect, a programme run by the British Council, the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities, is open to all young people aged 18-35.
Ten representatives from the UK will be joined by 40 others from 11 different countries.
Successful applicants will be invited to take part in public events, pitching the policy ideas they feel could change the world for the better and discussing today’s biggest global challenges.
Mr Amesbury said: “This is an invaluable opportunity for a motivated young person to meet similar high-achievers from around the world who are all united by their desire to make things better in their societies and beyond.
“It’s open to anybody who has an idea they think could make the world a better place – and it will give them the practical skills and networks to help pursue it.”
Sir Ciarán Devane, British Council chief executive, said: “Through Future Leaders Connect we hope to gather the next generation of world leaders and help them understand the practical nature of policymaking, unravel the mysteries of leadership and develop friendships and contacts with counterparts around the world.”
This year’s applicants will be asked what their unique policy ideas are and why they have what it takes to be a global leader.
Applications must be submitted online before midnight on Sunday, May 13, at www.britishcouncil.org/ future-leaders-connect