Our Work
Futures Forward Academy
The Futures Forward Academy
The World around us is changing at a rapid pace. The climate emergency, the economic downturn and the health crisis arising from the Covid-19 pandemic have demonstrated the complexity and sheer unpredictability of some of the issues our future leaders will have to overcome.
If Gibraltar is to move from being effective to exemplary in navigating these crisis we must increasingly replace reactivity and short-term problem solving with forward thinking and sustainable leadership.
The Futures Forward Academy will provide a means of supporting our next generation of leaders with the necessary capabilities, mindsets, and networks to make a positive difference.
Q. WHY apply to the Futures Forward Academy?
Looking to make a difference in our community and bring about positive change for the future? Are you a fledgling journalist who is curious about sustainable economic prospects and scenarios for Gibraltar? Are you someone working in the financial sector who wants to channel investment into the transition to a zero carbon economy? Or a passionate teacher who wants to create a generational shift in how education and learning contribute to citizen engagement in sustainability?
As a participant of the Futures Forward Academy, you will represent a new generation of leaders who understands the need for strategic engagement and planning for the future.
As an individual you will develop the know-how to inform and influence change and the ability to see the ‘bigger picture’. As a cohort, you will gain a collaborative support network of equally driven change-makers who are committed to a better and brighter future in Gibraltar.
Q. WHAT is the focus of the Futures Forward Academy?
Sustainability is not only about environmental concerns. The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in fact address a broad range of social, economic, and cultural considerations to attain a more sustainable future.
Informed by the SDGs, the Futures Forward Academy programme looks beyond the environmental dimensions rooting these in social and economic concerns. The themes explored will include;
- Health and wellbeing
- Biodiversity, climate, environment and nature protection
- Socio-economic issues incl: alleviating poverty and hunger
- Addressing gender and social inequalities
- Circular economy, sustainable consumption
- Just and inclusive institutions
- Education, learning and partnerships
Whilst the sustainability challenges may be acute, the Futures Forward Academy is a remarkable opportunity to advance SDG goals in Gibraltar, foster cultural diversity, and promote intercultural dialogue.
Q. HOW will we do it?
The Academy’s forward thinkers will be supported throughout the programme by change innovators with expertise across numerous professional fields.
Developing the right capability to become a change leader involves embracing sustainability principles, listening to others and learning from experiences. The programme will be based on a structure comprising of;
- Workshops
- Speaker series
- Reverse mentoring*
- A change project
- An international visit*
The various components of the Academy will address the most pressing issues facing our local community and the wider region.
*These components of the programme are unlikely to take place in 2021 due to Covid-19 health advice and restrictions.
Q. WHO should apply?
Those eligible for selection will;
- Be aged between 20-30.
- Can commit to attending 7 workshops (Saturdays 11am-1pm) and setting aside 2 hours a week for attending webinars and undertaking an action project over a period of 6 months.
- Have an interest and motivation to make a real difference in the local and regional community.
- Demonstrate an interest in developing a forward facing mindset.
Those eligible for selection must live, study, or work in Gibraltar or have done so in the previous 5 years. Participants will be expected to attend sessions in Gibraltar.
Q. HOW can I apply?
You can apply by downloading this form. Once completed, the form needs to be emailed to FuturesForward@gibraltar.gov.gi along with a cover letter outlining how you believe you will benefit from this experience.
You will receive an acknowledgement to let you know that we have received your application. Late applications will not be accepted.
Potential participants will be invited to an informal interview.
APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2021 INTAKE ARE NO LONGER BEING ACCEPTED.
Q. WHO are our partners?
Funding support has been received from the Kusuma Trust. In establishing the Futures Forward Academy, it was essential that our partners share our values and commitment to youth engagement, leadership, and learning. The Kusuma Trust has long recognised the importance of supporting Gibraltar’s up and coming talent.
We have partnered with the Gibraltar American Chamber of Commerce in regards to our official launch event. AmCham Gibraltar has a long standing commitment to training and empowering the next generation of leaders through their work with the Advanced Leadership Foundation.
We will also be collaborating with The Royal Commonwealth Society Gibraltar. The RCS is commonwealth-wide network of individuals and organisations committed to improving the lives and prospects of Commonwealth citizens across the world.
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