Ignite Leadership Programme

The Ignite Leadership Programme supported 14 emerging leaders from Southampton’s voluntary, community and social enterprise sector to develop their confidence, skills and networks, with a focus on building inclusive and values-led leadership across the city.

Running from September 2025 to February 2026, the programme combined interactive workshops with peer learning and reflective practice. Participants explored areas including leadership styles, communication, collaboration and leading through change, while sharing experiences and learning from one another.

The programme was designed not only to develop practical leadership skills, but also to build relationships and create a supportive network between people working across Southampton’s communities and organisations.

By the end of Ignite, participants reported greater confidence in their leadership approach and had developed new skills and connections to support their ongoing development. The programme also contributed to tangible progression, with three participants offered new employment by its conclusion.

Ignite formed part of Southampton Forward’s wider work to strengthen the people and organisations contributing to the city’s cultural and community life, investing in the next generation of leaders and supporting them to make a positive impact within their organisations and communities.