REPORT: Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders
Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders 2026 Report
May 6, 2026
The National Committee on American Foreign Policy is pleased to announce the release of the Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders 2026 Report.
Over the past several months, NCAFP convened the third cohort of Northern Ireland Emerging Leaders, a diverse group of scholars and policy practitioners. Through one-on-one mentorship, a series of virtual and in-person discussions, training workshops, delegation visits, and high-level meetings in Belfast, Dublin, and the United States, participants examined some of the region’s most pressing challenges and opportunities. These engagements informed the report, which addresses topics including USA 250, sustainable agriculture, business growth, reversing brain drain, and more.
The result is a forward-looking publication that presents innovative policy ideas and actionable recommendations. It reflects both the complexity of Northern Ireland’s evolving landscape and the fresh perspectives of its rising leaders. These individuals are not only driving progress within their local communities, but also helping to shape the future of transatlantic relations.
We invite you to read the full report and learn more about these emerging leaders and their impactful work:
We extend our deepest thanks to the Government of Ireland’s Reconciliation Fund, The Ireland Funds, Invest Northern Ireland, the Eithne & Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Fund, the Irish American Partnership, and our entire community of donors and supporters who make this work possible.