This year’s 28 fellows include Anna McClung of the Department of Justice, Rhyannon Blythe of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, Eilís Adamson of the Public Prosecution Service and Brian Armstrong of Northern Ireland Alternatives.

The cohort also includes politicians, entrepreneurs, senior civil servants, business leaders, cultural advocates and community organisers.

Over the next seven months, they will take part in a “transformative experience designed to strengthen their leadership, forge new connections, and explore the challenges and opportunities facing society today”.

Now in its fifth year, the fellowship is supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, as well as employers such as Camlin Group, FinTrU, Fujitsu NI, NIE Networks, Ulster Carpets, Allstate NI and the Irish American Partnership.

Darragh McCarthy, chair of the fellowship advisory board, said: “This year’s fellows bring a remarkable breadth of experience and perspective.

“The fellowship offers a unique space to explore ideas, challenge assumptions, and grow as leaders.

“I’m delighted to welcome this group and look forward to working alongside them in the months ahead.”

The class of 2026 begin their fellowship journey at Parliament Buildings, Stormont, on Wednesday 3 September before heading to Worcester College, Oxford, the following week for the first of two programme residentials.