Skip to content Skip to main menu 
The John Smith Centre Minority Ethnic Emerging Leaders Programme is a professional and personal development opportunity for 50 young people between the ages of 18 – 29 from minority ethnic backgrounds across Scotland.
The Programme runs between September 2021 and November 2022.
Funded by the Scottish Government, the programme provides young people with a part-time internship for 9 months with a public sector organisation, a voluntary sector organisation or an NGO.
Through the programme, the participants develop of a range of workplace relevant skills and an appreciation for the value of a career in public service.
Participants on the programme receive:
- A National Living Wage equivalent grant.
- An allocated mentor.
- Access to networking and employability opportunities.
- Membership of the John Smith Centre’s Alumni Network in perpetuity.
Minimum eligibility criteria
Applicants must:
- Come from a minority ethnic background.
- Be between the ages of 18-29 at the closing date for applications (19 July 2021).
- Have an SQA National level 5 (or equivalent) in English.
- Be resident in Scotland for the full duration of the Programme (from now until November 2022).
- Have the right to live and work in the UK.
Before you apply:
1. Watch our videos to find out what we’re looking for from your online application.
2. Download our Application Pack.
3. Check out all our Programme Resources for more help with your application.
Meet our Emerging Leaders
Frequently Asked Questions
Got a question?
Some organisations taking part in the Programme:
The Minority Ethnic Emerging Leaders Programme is generously funded by the Scottish Government.
Find out more
Stay up to date with Minority Ethnic Emerging Leaders Programme announcements:
