Pathways into Politics – Call for Applications now open!
Update - we have extended the application process until 23.59 on the 6th December
We have an exciting opportunity for 18-30 year-old Muslims from Huddersfield, Batley, Dewsbury, Manchester, Bradford, Bolton, London and surrounding areas to apply to be part of our ‘Pathways into Politics’ programme. Pathways into Politics is a programme aimed at developing the political literacy, leadership and communication skills of young British Muslims through regular engagement with political leaders from a range of backgrounds. We are looking for young people with a genuine interest in political issues who are looking to further develop their skills and knowledge in order to create change within their communities and/or wider society. We welcome applications from individuals at different stages of their career who may benefit from this opportunity. The first part of the programme is planned for January 2021 (final dates TBC). This will be a two-day online conference aimed at improving the political literacy, communication and confidence of participants. The conference will be made up of a series of meetings with UK-based and international political leaders. Speakers may include local and national politicians, journalists, members of civil society organisations and diplomats. Last year’s conference included meetings with: Amro Hussain, director of the APPG on Freedom of Religion or Belief; Dominic Grieve QC and John Grogan, former MPs; Sir Jeremy Greenstock, former UK Permanent Representative at the UN; and Hauwa Shehu, head of the CPS Muslim Network. The second part of the programme will be an online ‘mini-series’ of meetings to continue with skills development. Previous speakers at these events have included: Phillipa Whitford, MP for Central Ayrshire; the Rt Hon Alistair Burt, former Minister of State for the Middle East at the FCO; and Thoraya Obaid, former Executive Director of the UN Population Fund (UNFPA). To apply, please send a completed application form and your CV to applications@forward-thinking.org with the subject line ‘2020 Pathways into Politics Application’. Applications will close at 23:59 on 6th December 2020. An information handbook and application form can be downloaded from the following links: Applicant Handbook - pdfApplication Form - wordThis is a competitive process for around 15 individuals. If you have any questions please contact: maisie.cook@forward-thinking.org *In light of restrictions due to COVID-19, this programme will be conducted online with the opportunity for in-person meetings if circumstances change*
"The Pathways into Politics project was an excellent opportunity for me to move my understanding of Politics away from an academic setting, to a real life setting. The programme enabled me to listen to and meet people working in politics that I would never have a chance to talk to previously, and in such an open and engaging format where I felt comfortable expressing myself. Learning how these people came from similar backgrounds and faced similar obstacles, and learning ways to overcome this was enlightening, and I will be sure to carry on using what I’ve learnt in the programme as I develop."
"The Pathways into Politics project has improved my interpersonal skills, networking skills and increased my knowledge about the different careers in the field of politics. From the London trip to having regular online meetings with amazing individuals and hearing about their interesting work has taught me a lot in terms of networking, taking on their advice on how to create a career in politics and gaining knowledge about world events. I am very grateful for the fantastic opportunity!"
Previous Participants in the Pathways into Politics Process