Impetus Leadership Academy

The Impetus Leadership Academy (ILA) is a leadership development programme to support talent from ethnic minority backgrounds in the UK youth sector to progress into senior leadership roles in youth education or youth employment organisations.

The programme supports participants to explore and develop their personal leadership styles, increase their knowledge in key management topics, and access networks that can unlock more senior leadership roles. The programme is designed and delivered by people from ethnic minority backgrounds for people from ethnic minority backgrounds.

The 8-month fully-funded programme consists of: 

• Technical masterclasses: Topics include fundraising, impact management, financial management and more. Participants will have the opportunity to widen their technical knowledge and share their expertise and experience on key topics.
• Coaching: Participants receive eight 90-minute coaching sessions with a qualified coach, working towards agreed goals. This non-directive support is a powerful tool for leaders to solve their challenges with the support of an independent and expert coach.
• Mentoring: Participants receive four 60-minute mentoring sessions with corporate volunteers. Mentors will share their experience and expertise and offer advice and guidance on topics relevant to participants. 
• Networking and events: Participants will attend and take part in networking events, including an annual panel discussion event. Participants will also benefit from bespoke networking opportunities, brokered by Impetus.

The Impetus Leadership Academy is aimed at aspiring leaders within the UK youth sector, working with young people aged 11-24 and focused on education and employment.

Applicants must be from ethnic minority backgrounds and be middle managers or senior managers looking to move into a more senior role.

Applications are particularly encouraged from people:

• Living and working in the North of England, Scotland, the Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, and the East of England
• From Bangladeshi, Pakistani, Black backgrounds
• Who have lived experience of the issues faced by the young people with whom they work

Suitable candidates will:

• Be currently employed by a charity or social enterprise
• Be committed to supporting young people to succeed in education and employment, evidenced by past experience and future ambition
• Have some leadership or managerial experience (e.g. leading a team or campaign)
• Have ambition to take on a more senior role in the sector, and be a voice in the national conversation on issues for young people from ethnic minority backgrounds in the UK
• Be able to fully commit to all ILA course content (illustrative dates listed in FAQs above) across the 8-month programme

Apply here 

Deadline: 9th March 2025, 11.59pm