St James’s Changemakers Programme

“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others”. Nelson Mandela, Politician and Statesman

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Aims of the Changemakers Programme

St James’s Changemakers Programme is a new idea and initiative that aims to develop young leaders from across a of range of sectors who are committed to positive social change.

This innovative and inspiring 18-month programme aims to:

  • Empower young leaders to imagine the world to be different and act to make it so
  • Equip these leaders to be agents of change through values-led leadership
  • Develop their skills and network so that they can make greater impact in their field/sector
  • Deepen their understanding of how interconnectedness can facilitate our societal change
  • Prepare young leaders to understand and bear the cost of being change agents with others

Overview of the Changemakers Programme

Initially twenty-five young people from across the UK will be selected each year for the first three years. They will be drawn from five sectors: Civil Society (women only), Performing Arts, Music, Environment and Science, and Business. This breadth will facilitate peer-to-peer learning and encourage cross-pollination of ideas, approaches and philosophies.

Our Changemakers will be comfortable with being uncomfortable. They will learn how to work through difference and find common ground. They will be able to examine how positive social change can be implemented at individual, collective and institutional levels.

Over the course of 18-months the Changemakers will be involved in five programme strands that work together.

  • Gathering – They will meet to learn how to tell their story effectively and share the importance of their work.
  • Network – They will build a new network through their cohort and attendance at two residentials and an annual lecture.
  • Resources and Training – They will develop existing and new skills though masterclasses delivered by sector leaders.
  • Imagining the Future – Our Changemakers will engage in personal development through 1:1 mentoring.
  • Being a Change Agent – The programme concludes with a six-month paid internship with a focus on action and the apractical application of their learning throughout the programme.

Read Revd Lucy Winkett’s Thought for the Week about the launch of the Changemakers Programme