A new collaborative initiative which aims to empower future female leaders in education, was launched at an event in Danske Bank’s Belfast headquarters attended by schools, business people and local leaders.
The SistersIN Leadership Programme has been developed specifically to help sixth form girls build their confidence and broaden their career perspectives. Delivered over eight months, the programme includes bespoke leadership skills training, an in-school leadership project where pupils are able to gain real-life experience, and mentoring from leading females in business and society.
The programme has been developed by the charity SistersIN in partnership with foundation partners Danske Bank, the Education Authority and The James Kane Foundation, and collaboration partner, Women in Business.
The first phase kicks off in September through 10 schools across Northern Ireland, with ambitions to expand the programme to other schools in the future.
Speaking at the launch, Peter Dobbin, Principal of Assumption Grammar School Ballynahinch and Director of SistersIN called on businesses to get behind the initiative. He said:
“The SistersIN journey has the potential to transform the lives of young females by reaching them before they even start their careers – but to achieve this we need to work in partnership with businesses who can help us deliver and scale the programme. We’re looking for businesses who can provide mentors, job shadowing opportunities or
funding support.“It is our hope that, by bringing together some of the most influential people in industry, in education and in life in Northern Ireland, we can create and offer a unique experience to over 400 highly talented and ambitious girls who we have identified as potential future leaders.
“I’d like to welcome the Education Authority, Danske Bank and The James Kane Foundation as our Foundation Partners, and greatly appreciate their support.”
Aisling Press, Managing Director of Personal Banking at Danske Bank and Assumption Grammar alumnus added:
“I’m inspired by the vision and ambition of SistersIN to make a real difference in showing our girls that anything is possible and to play our part in enabling a greater representation of women into senior roles across diverse businesses and boards.
“I really believe SistersIN has the potential to scale and bring focus to leadership development, empowerment and belief as part of the education pathway and enable young women to thrive in their future careers. A key component is connecting the girls with business leaders to provide mentorship and build their network in the business community.”
So, we strongly encourage more local businesses to get involved and sign up to mentor the pupils to help them reach their full potential.”
For more information visit www.sisters-IN.org