Transatlantic Leaders Fellowship Now Accepting Applications
- Ceannas House
- 24 hours ago
- 2 min read
Timeline & Key Dates:
Application Submission Period: July 27, 2026 – August 24, 2026
Notification of Acceptance: August 31, 2026
Belfast Introductory Meeting: September 18-19, 2026
New York Conference: February 2027
The Transatlantic Leaders Fellowship, delivered in partnership with Ceannas House and the Civic Initiative, is now accepting applications from individuals interested in shaping the future of public policy in Northern Ireland.
This fellowship is designed for emerging professionals, community leaders, and changemakers who want to turn their ideas into practical policy solutions. Through a combination of workshops, skills development, mentorship, and peer learning, Fellows will strengthen their ability to influence policy, communicate effectively with decision-makers, and contribute to public debate.
The fellowship is grounded in the longstanding transatlantic relationship between Northern Ireland, Ireland, and the United States. Through engagement with policymakers, practitioners, and thought leaders on both sides of the Atlantic, Fellows will explore how international perspectives can inform local policy challenges and strengthen civic leadership.
Each Fellow will be paired with a senior policy expert for one-to-one mentorship and support as they develop a policy paper on an issue of importance to Northern Ireland. Fellows will work throughout the program to refine their ideas, develop evidence-based recommendations, and prepare their work for publication.
Fellowship Structure
The fellowship combines virtual sessions with in-person convenings that provide opportunities for learning, collaboration, and networking with leaders from Northern Ireland, Ireland, and the United States.
The program includes:
● An in-person orientation in Belfast in September 2026
● Regular virtual workshops and mentoring sessions throughout the fellowship
● A two-day visit to Dublin in January 2027
● A concluding conference in New York City in February 2027
Throughout the fellowship, participants will receive training in policy writing, public communication, media engagement, and public speaking. Fellows will also have opportunities to workshop their ideas, receive feedback from experts and peers, and engage with a transatlantic network of policymakers, civic leaders, academics, and practitioners.
Fellowship Outcomes
At the conclusion of the program, Fellows will contribute a policy paper to a published collection of fellowship research and recommendations. Their work will be shared with audiences in Northern Ireland, Ireland, and the United States, helping to foster dialogue on shared challenges and opportunities. Fellows will present their work at the final conference in New York City and participate in a policy-focused podcast highlighting key insights and recommendations from the program.
Applications must include the following:
● Resume
● Letter of interest
● Short bio, no more than 300 words
● A one-page outline of the research topic related to policy issues in Northern Ireland on which the group member will develop policy recommendations.
Qualifications & Expectations
We welcome applications from early- to mid-career professionals, community leaders, advocates, and practitioners with at least three years of experience in public policy, community development, civic leadership, public service, or a related field. Participants must commit to participating in all required virtual meetings, and in-person meetings in Belfast, Dublin, and New York City
To apply, please complete the application found here: