Young refugee and asylum-seeking mothers participate in new Future Leaders Cohort

Future Leaders programs are making a profound difference, breaking down barriers, and creating leaders who will have a positive impact on their communities and beyond.

Our flagship Future Leaders Programme has already achieved remarkable success, with our sixth and seventh cohorts of young people graduating in December of this year. These programs have seen the growth of a thriving alumni community, comprised of nearly 100 individuals from over 30 different nationalities, spanning 40 towns and cities across the UK.

In our ongoing efforts to empower marginalized communities, we are pleased to share that we are currently delivering our first ever Future Leaders Programme tailored specifically toward young refugee and asylum-seeking mothers. Through the programme we are breaking down barriers, cultivating leadership skills, and fostering personal growth in these remarkable women.

The Programme is tailored specifically for these mothers who face unique challenges adapting to life in the UK. All participants have children under the age of five years old, have experienced complex trauma as a result of forced migration and over 70% are single parents. From childcare responsibilities to navigating complex legal systems and adapting to new cultural environments, the program is designed to provide them with the specific support they need. The program consists of eight online sessions, led by our experienced faculty members and in collaboration with dedicated partner organizations that specialize in supporting this demographic. We are taking measures to ensure that every participant can engage fully by providing tech support, ensuring accessibility for all.

The outcomes from our programs have been remarkable. We have witnessed a decrease in loneliness and isolation, an increase in ambition, and improved access to education and employment. Collaborating with organizations and businesses has expanded the horizons of our alumni, creating opportunities for growth and community building.

Our vision for this mothers-only cohort is to create a close-knit, supportive community of ambitious young women. While some may choose to pursue further education or employment, we are committed to fostering their personal development even after the program concludes. Our network of partner organizations and our alumni community will be a continued source of support.

We have actively sought insights from organizations that serve Refugee and Asylum Seeker (RAS) mothers. We have engaged individuals from our Future Leaders Alumni community who bring valuable lived experience to the table, ensuring our program is tailored precisely to their needs. As a part of the programme, we have brought onboard an intern who herself is a refugee, a mother of 3 young children and a graduate of the Future Leaders Programme.

Our mission is to empower marginalized communities and nurture leaders. With the Future Leaders Program already reaching new heights and the Leadership Programmes for Refugee and Asylum-Seeking Mothers taking its first steps, we anticipate a brighter and more inclusive future for all our participants. These programs are making a profound difference, breaking down barriers, and creating leaders who will have a positive impact on their communities and beyond.