EVENT RECAP: 2025 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Discussions

2025 Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders Discussions: Shaping a Brighter Future and Strengthening Transatlantic Ties  

The 2025 NCAFP Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders (NI EL) gathered in New York City for three days of insightful discussions, impactful talks, and unique opportunities for cultural exchange, April 30-May 2. With a mission to strengthen transatlantic cooperation and help shape a brighter future for Northern Ireland, this year’s conference brought together high-level guest speakers, emerging leaders, mentors, and experts from a variety of fields. The event marked the conclusion of the second NI EL cohort, where emerging leaders presented their final policy proposals, which are now available in the full report.

Day One – Promoting Rights, Health, and Equality in Northern Ireland and Beyond

The conference began with remarks from Consul General of Ireland in NY, Helena Nolan, and Ambassador Susan Elliott (CEO and President of NCAFP), who set the stage for a day filled with dynamic discussions on some of the region’s most pressing issues.

Carla Hannan and Stephen McCrystall highlighted the need for a more effective approach to addressing gender-based violence. Austin Orr highlighted the major challenges in Northern Ireland’s healthcare system for its aging population and advocated for the establishment of community health hubs.

The conversation shifted to human rights and law in Northern Ireland. Ciara Campbell spoke on the hurdles to achieving transitional justice and accountability, while Rachel Kenny-Cardoso emphasized the importance of inclusive communities supporting migrant women and marginalized groups. Justin Kouame concluded the session by calling for a Single Equality Act to address systemic discrimination in Northern Ireland.

The day also featured remarks by Irish Ambassador to the United States Geraldine Byrne Nason, who discussed the evolving U.S.-Ireland relationship and the importance of communication and collaboration on trade and historical ties. Former Special Envoy for Northern Ireland Joe Kennedy III reflected on Northern Ireland’s progress since the Good Friday Agreement and offered a hopeful outlook for the future.

Day Two – Advancing Northern Ireland’s Future and Strengthening Transatlantic Relations through Education, Reform, and People-to-People Ties

Day two opened with Program Director Emma DeSouza and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Fleur Anderson, who underscored the importance of cooperation and investment in peace-building for long-term growth.

Emerging leader Matthew O’Neill shared insights into how integrated education can promote unity, while Anne Devlin stressed the importance of reforming the education system to ensure equal opportunities for all. Aoife Clements addressed the protection of women in politics, focusing on online threats and gender-based violence, and Jack Armstrong called for essential reforms in the Northern Ireland Assembly to prevent political collapse.

The afternoon focused on community-led initiatives for youth development and the arts. Doire Finn discussed integrating the arts into Northern Ireland’s culture, while Conor Forker highlighted the challenges facing rural youth work.

Special guest Elaine Marshall, Secretary of State for North Carolina, spoke about the importance of business collaboration and educational exchange between North Carolina and Northern Ireland. Later, David Blevins, Senior Ireland Correspondent for Sky News, discussed the impact of storytelling in inspiring hope and navigating the rapidly evolving media landscape.

Cultural and Diplomatic Engagements

Beyond these discussions, the ELs also had the opportunity to explore NYC’s vibrant cultural scene. They visited the Irish Arts Center for the opening night of a play, where they met with Executive Director Aidan Connolly, a program mentor, to discuss how the arts can foster community-building. Additionally, the group attended the Ireland Funds Gala, further strengthening their connections with global partners and supporters committed to the future of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The trip culminated with a visit to the Irish Mission to the UN, where the Emerging Leaders participated in a discussion and toured the UN Headquarters. The final event was a meeting at the British Consulate General in NYC, where they spoke with consulate representatives about the operations of the UK consulate and explored how they can apply their learnings to create positive change back home in Northern Ireland.

Looking Ahead: Deepening Transatlantic Ties Through Leadership and Mentorship

The Emerging Leaders Discussions in NYC were a powerful testament to the value of transatlantic collaboration and mentorship in shaping the next generation of changemakers. Over three impactful days, Northern Ireland’s future leaders not only engaged with high-level policymakers and diplomats but also built meaningful relationships with mentors and peers across sectors and borders. These connections, rooted in shared values and a commitment to peace and progress, will continue to foster dialogue and innovation long after the conference ends. As the Emerging Leaders return home, they carry with them not only new insights into governance, education, and international relations but also lasting bonds that strengthen the bridge between Northern Ireland and the United States.

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