Belfast City Airport’s IGNITE Programme returns to inspire next generation of young leaders

(L-R) Pete Snodden, Northern Irish radio presenter, Michelle Hatfield, Chief People and Marketing Officer at Belfast City Airport and Nell Cullen, IGNITE graduate.

Belfast City Airport has officially opened applications for the sixth year of its acclaimed IGNITE Youth Leadership Programme, inviting ambitious young people aged 16 to 18 from across Northern Ireland to take part in the transformative initiative.

Launched in 2019, the IGNITE programme was created to equip teenagers from all backgrounds with the leadership skills and confidence needed to thrive in life and work. Over the past five years, it has fulfilled its mission of empowering over 100 participants, and due to its growing popularity, the initiative is set to continue its legacy in 2025.

The year-long programme includes mentorship opportunities, real-world industry exposure, and hands-on experiences with prominent figures from various sectors including sports, media, business, and politics.

In addition to these interactive learning opportunities, successful applicants will also work towards achieving a Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) Diploma in Personal and Career Development.

Speaking at the launch of this year’s programme, Michelle Hatfield, Chief People and Marketing Officer at Belfast City Airport, reflected on the impact IGNITE has made:

“When we first launched IGNITE in 2019, our goal was to offer life-changing opportunities to over 100 young people across five years – and that’s exactly what we have achieved.

“Its popularity means IGNITE will now return for a sixth year, and we are thrilled to be able to build on its enormous success.

“At Belfast City Airport, community and education are at the heart of everything we do, and this initiative combines both to make a tangible difference.

“With a mixture of mentorship, hands-on experience, and exposure to real-world industry environments, participants gain valuable insights that set them on a path to success.

“We are incredibly proud of the impact IGNITE continues to have and look forward to another year of supporting and inspiring the next generation of talent.”

The 2025 programme will feature an impressive line-up of mentors and guest speakers, including renowned Northern Irish radio host Pete Snodden, who expressed his enthusiasm for taking part:

“Throughout my career, I’ve had the pleasure of working with many talented young people and I know firsthand how vital opportunities such as IGNITE are in opening doors and shaping futures.

“This programme doesn’t just teach skills – it provides a platform for young people to make a real impact in their lives and the community around them, giving them the confidence to push boundaries and create positive change.

“I would encourage anyone thinking of applying to go for it – it could be the start of an unforgettable journey!”

Applications for the IGNITE Youth Leadership Programme are now open and will close in the coming weeks.

Young people aged 16 to 18 who are keen to challenge themselves, build their confidence, and develop key life and leadership skills are strongly encouraged to apply via the official website: www.belfastcityairport.com/ignite2025.