SistersIN and the Electoral Commission partner to develop the next generation of female leaders

SistersIN and the Electoral Commission have partnered to create new opportunities for girls to build their confidence, develop transferable leadership skills and discover the power of their voice.

The partnership brings together SistersIN’s leadership development programme for girls aged 16–18 with the Commission’s expertise in participation and inclusion, creating opportunities for girls to develop the skills and confidence to lead, influence and make a positive difference in their schools and communities.

At the heart of SistersIN is the belief that every girl has the potential to lead. Through leadership skills training, mentoring, job shadowing and pupil-led projects, the programme encourages participants to recognise their strengths, communicate with confidence, consider different perspectives and turn their ideas into action.

The partnership will enrich this experience by creating opportunities for girls to learn from the Electoral Commission , explore how democracy works and understand how decisions are made at local and national level. Participants will be encouraged to explore how they can contribute to the issues that matter to them and contribute positively to their communities. Participants will be encouraged to share their learning with their peers and wider school communities, building a culture of collaboration, participation and positive social action.

A key element will be developing the girls’ ability to communicate their ideas and inspire others. Through support for SistersIN’s public speaking training, access to mentors and peer-led learning opportunities, participants will strengthen transferable skills including communication, critical thinking, respectful debate, teamwork, problem-solving and decision-making. These skills will support them throughout their education, future careers and wider lives.

Gillian McKeown, Director of Operations and Growth at SistersIN, said:

“We are delighted to be partnering with the Electoral Commission. There is a wonderful fit between our organisations and a shared commitment to helping young people build confidence, recognise their potential and understand the difference they can make.

“At SistersIN, leadership is about much more than holding a position. It is about finding your voice, listening to others, having the confidence to share your ideas and taking action. This partnership will create valuable opportunities for our girls to put those skills into practice, learn from new perspectives and build their confidence as future leaders.

“We are particularly excited about the opportunities for peer learning, mentoring and public speaking, and about encouraging girls to share their knowledge and inspire others within their schools and communities. The skills they develop through these experiences will stay with them long after the programme ends.”

Esmat Jeraj, Head of Voter Engagement at the Electoral Commission, said:

“We’re proud to be supporting the SistersIN leadership development programme in Northern Ireland this year. Empowering future female leaders contributes to a culture where diverse voices feel safe and supported to participate in public life, strengthening democratic engagement and aligning with our goal of championing inclusive participation.  

“By sharing our experience and supporting participants to grow, we're helping to create more opportunities for young women in Northern Ireland to broaden their horizons, develop their leadership potential and gain the confidence to achieve their goals. Encouraging people to engage with democracy, whether as voters or future candidates, is an important part of building a healthy and inclusive democracy.”

Through this partnership, SistersIN and the Electoral Commission will help girls develop the confidence, skills and self-belief to become active, informed and influential leaders. By combining leadership development with opportunities to learn, share ideas and engage with their communities, the partnership will support girls to realise their potential and inspire positive change around them.

ENDS