EVENT RECAP: Advancing Peace, Progress, and Transatlantic Ties

Events

Emerging Leaders Europe 2025

Advancing Peace, Progress, and Transatlantic Ties Through NCAFP’s Emerging Leaders Program

On March 5, a distinguished group gathered in Manhattan for NCAFP’s luncheon, “Next Generation Diplomacy: Redefining Transatlantic Priorities.” The event included engaging discussions on peace and progress in Northern Ireland and enhancing transatlantic relations, all while supporting the impactful work of NCAFP’s Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program.

The event began with powerful opening remarks from NCAFP President and CEO Ambassador Susan Elliott and Senator George Mitchell, both of whom underscored the critical role of the Emerging Leaders Program in strengthening transatlantic ties. Their reflections set the stage for a day filled with meaningful conversations.

“It is now up to the current and future leaders of Northern Ireland, Ireland, and the UK to act with the same courage and vision as their predecessors did a quarter of a century ago. That is why this Emerging Leaders program is so critical. It represents the next chapter in ensuring that the peace process is sustained and that tomorrow’s leadership continues the work of past leaders. Building lasting peace is not a passive endeavor; it requires continuous effort, fresh ideas, and new leadership. Launched last year, this program brings together people from diverse backgrounds and ages. These are the next generation of leaders committed to sustaining and strengthening peace.”
Senator George Mitchell

One of the highlights of the luncheon was a discussion on climate change, with Angela Barranco of Climate Group and Northern Ireland Emerging Leader Donal Griffin emphasizing the power of local voices in driving global change. They highlighted the opportunities and challenges facing transatlantic cooperation, stressing that programs like NCAFP’s Emerging Leaders initiative serve as essential bridges, fostering deeper collaboration and mutual understanding across the Atlantic.

The event then turned to economic policy, moderated by Nicholas Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic. A panel of experts—including Colin McCabery, Director of Trade at InterTradeIreland; Gavin Corr, Founder & CEO of Quintilian & Pazithi Group; and Roseann Kelly MBE, CEO of Women in Business NI—discussed the implications of America’s new trade policies on Northern Ireland and Ireland. Former Special Envoy Joe Kennedy III also gave virtual remarks.

The third discussion focused on Women, Peace, and Security. NCAFP Trustee Bridget Foley moderated an engaging discussion with former Diplomat Helena Kane Finn, Emerging Leader Tara Grace Connolly, and Jane McCooey of Morgan Stanley. These distinguished speakers, with diverse expertise, highlighted women’s pivotal role in diplomacy, grassroots efforts, and business within peace processes worldwide.

To close the event, actor and activist Siobhan McSweeney, best known for her role in Derry Girls, and Emma DeSouza, Director of the Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program, led a compelling conversation on the power of storytelling in peacemaking.

The event raised awareness and funds for NCAFP’s Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Program, a transatlantic mentorship initiative designed to empower community leaders from Northern Ireland. This program equips participants with the necessary skills to turn their ideas into actionable policy recommendations, with the support of workshops, training sessions, and delegation visits to government and academic institutions.

We sincerely thank all those who attended and contributed to the success of this impactful event and the program.

To learn more about NCAFP’s Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders or provide financial support for the program, please contact the Program Development Officer at Shaina.Katz@ncafp.org and click here.