The WIP inspires and develops promising leaders through a programme committed to building a future of peace and prosperity for Northern Ireland and Ireland. For over two decades WIP has brought together young leaders from a wide range of communities and backgrounds for an outstanding leadership and skills-development program.

Each year, the WIP selects 30 talented students to join it’s network of leaders and influencers by completing a 12-month program of service and leadership development, which includes a summer in Washington DC or New York City.

The Washington Ireland Programme has cause to celebrate in 2018 with notable alums serving as Taoiseach (Leo Varadkar, WIP Class of 2000), Lord Mayor of Belfast (Nuala McAllister, WIP Class of 2010), and in Westminster (Emma Little-Pengelly, WIP Class of 2002).

Selection for WIP 2018 was highly competitive with three hundred students from across the island of Ireland competing for the opportunity to be on the class, and ultimately to become part of an active WIP alum network seeking to make a difference in their communities.

Natalie said:

“I am incredibly lucky to have been given this opportunity to spend this summer working in an area I’m passionate about and, additionally, to be given a unique chance to develop my leadership skills. Studying Law at the University of Bristol has allowed me to gain a new perception and has allowed me to spot opportunities that could help others. By taking part on WIP I hope to develop the skills to bring these ideas to fruition”.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar recently launched WIP’s New York Programme by speaking about his experience on WIP at the Irish Consulate in New York City:

“It helped me develop my view of the wider world…and without it perhaps I wouldn’t be standing here today.”

If you would like to follow the progress of Natalie and others this summer you can follow their blogs and view photos at www.wiprogram.org.