Stonewall Scotland Future Leaders Programme 2025

This programme is open to any LGBTQ+ person aged 22-30 who is based in Scotland.

We particularly encourage applications from bi people, trans and non-binary people, LGBTQ+ people of colour, LGBTQ+ people of faith, LGBTQ+ people with accessibility needs and/or LGBTQ+ people who are disabled.

We believe that LGBTQ+ people, across the world and across every stage of our lives, have limitless potential. However, we know that too often LGBTQ+ people face barriers to be their authentic selves.

This programme will allow you to identify strategies to demonstrate inclusive behaviours as an aspiring LGBTQ+ leader, and how to navigate environments where our identities may pose barriers to being our authentic selves. 

You will also have opportunities to connect with and build a network of other future LGBTQ+ leaders. 

• 90% of delegates said that the programme supported them to develop their understanding of how identity shapes experiences in workplaces, communities, and other settings.
• 94% of delegates said that the programme supported them to develop their understanding of the role leaders play in creating inclusive environments.
• 90% of delegates rated the programme as either ‘excellent’ or ‘good’.
   

"I found it affirming to be around other LGBTQ+ people who had similar hopes around creating more inclusive workplaces" 

Delegate on a previous Future LGBTQ+ Leaders Programme

"The content and structure of the workshop (programme) was great, it covered all aspects of what an inclusive leader looks like and how to be the best version of yourself as you progress in your career" 

Delegate on a previous Future LGBTQ+ Leaders Programme

We want our events to be accessible to everyone. All delegates should expect to feel safe, welcome, and included at our events. 

We understand that attending a programme such as this has hidden financial costs, which may prevent LGBTQ+ people from attending. We have therefore made funding available to cover reasonable travel, accommodation, and food costs for those who most need it to be able to attend this programme. Please see our FAQs below or email workplace@stonewallscotland.org.uk to find out more about the support we have available.

If you have any access needs, including the provision of equipment and BSL interpreters, please email workplace@stonewallscotland.org.uk. We will do our best to accommodate any access requirements you need. 

Stonewall is committed to ensuring that attendees of our programmes can participate in a safe and supported environment. 

Through different interactive exercises, we encourage delegates to challenge themselves, grow their understanding and develop new connections with the people in the session. 

Exploring issues and developing knowledge of different identities is encouraged and we see all identities as valid. Debating the validity of identities is not accepted on our courses. 

Do I need to be in employment to apply?

No. As long as you are aged between 22-30 you are welcome to apply to this programme. However, whilst the learning from this programme will translate across different settings, please be aware that this programme will focus on leadership in a workplace environment. 

I am in employment, is this programme open to organisations in my sector?

Yes. We welcome LGBTQ+ people aged 22-30 regardless of employment status, and from across all sectors in Scotland. 

I do not live in Scotland, can I attend?

As this is a funded programme you do have to live in Scotland to be able to attend this programme. You can find out more about other opportunities to attend one of our programmes or events here.

I am not aged between 22-30, can I attend the event?

This programme has been designed to specifically support LGBTQ+ people aged between 22-30, so we cannot allow people outside of this age range to attend. You can find out more about other opportunities to attend one of our programmes or events here.

What travel, accommodation, and food costs are covered?

Travel & Accommodation

As this is an in-person programme, there is a requirement to travel to central Glasgow to participate. We have secured funding to be able to cover reasonable transport costs (train, bus, car) for delegates who need this support to attend the programme. We will also consider requests for accommodation for those who need it. 

As a charity, we ask that delegates take steps to secure the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly transport options. 

If you need support in booking travel, please contact us via workplace@stonewallscotland.org.uk.

Food and Drink

All delegates attending the event will receive lunch and refreshments on the day.