The Public Leader programme

Leadership is not just about influence, it’s about transformation. Yet at times, the pressures can feel overwhelming – whether trying to find personal transformation, staying faithful in the storm, or bringing meaningful change to your context. 

The Public Leader programme is a 10-month transformational journey designed for young professionals and emerging leaders who follow Jesus. This programme will equip and empower you to be transformed and bring God’s kingdom wherever He has placed you.

Here is what you’ll get by joining the programme:

• Grow in confidence, strategy, and intentional leadership.
• Connect with a dynamic network of Christian leaders from diverse sectors.
• Gain wisdom from experienced mentors who will walk alongside you.
• Learn from industry leaders who integrate faith and leadership in real-world settings.
• Be part of a movement, shaping culture for Christ.

This programme is for Christians working primarily outside the church. We are building a diverse, cross-sector, and intergenerational network of leaders who are passionate about following Jesus and leading by His Spirit. You’ll richly benefit from this experience if you’re in industries such as:

• Business
• Healthcare
• Education
• Media
• Government
• Civic life
• Creative arts
• Community development

Programme highlights include:

• Exclusive networking and learning events – engage with like-minded leaders, learn from experts, and expand your professional and faith-driven impact.
• One-on-one mentorship – receive personalised guidance from seasoned Christian leaders.
• Strategic retreats – three immersive weekends of biblical teaching, leadership development, and deep fellowship.
• Online sessions – gain insights from guest speakers across industries.
• Cultural and political engagement – visits to key institutions to understand and impact society.
• Alumni network – a lifelong community of Christian leaders supporting one another.

Public Leader 2025 – 2026 will run across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Designed for professionals in their 20s – 30s, this is your chance to be equipped, encouraged, and challenged. Are you ready to lead with faith and purpose?

Lead with purpose, influence and faith

A public leader is anyone called to lead primarily outside of the church — whether in business, healthcare, education, media, the arts, or beyond. If your role involves engaging with the world, influencing culture, and making a difference, you are a public leader. This programme is designed to help you step into that calling with boldness, wisdom, and confidence.

Is this for you?

• Are you a young leader seeking to grow in faith and influence?
• Do you want to develop lasting relationships with like-minded Christians?
• Are you eager to bring the kingdom of God into your workplace and community?

If so, this is your opportunity to embark on a transformative journey. Our small-group approach (15−20 participants per nation) ensures personalized mentorship, deep connection, and a powerful learning experience.

Programme duration

The Public Leader programme is a 10-month leadership development journey crafted to help you lead with intention and strategy, regardless of your field or profession. We are committed to raising up culture-shaping leaders in every industry — whether in education, politics, business, or engineering -united by a shared love for Jesus and a desire to advance His kingdom.

Mentoring

All participants will be paired with a mentor for the year. Through one-on-one conversations, you’ll gain insight, encouragement, and tailored guidance to deepen your leadership skills and faith.

Programme fee

• Standard fee: £745 (payable in one lump sum, three instalments, or ten instalments over the course of the programme).
• Early bird rate: £695 (apply before 1 April 2025; approved applications only).
• Bursaries available: If financial constraints would prevent you from joining, we welcome you to discuss this with us during the interview stage.

What’s included? While programme content varies slightly across each UK nation, all participants will benefit from:

• Three 24-hour weekend retreats – engage in biblical teaching, nation-specific cultural analysis, leadership development, prayer, and time with senior Christian public leaders.
• Exclusive online teaching and content – learn from guest speakers across industries.
• Visits to national institutions – gain insight into the cultural, business, and political landscape of your region.
• Private mentorship sessions – at least four one-on-one meetings with your assigned mentor.
• Access to a thriving community – connect with fellow participants throughout the programme.
• Lifelong alumni network – join a growing movement of Christian leaders shaping culture for Christ.

Retreat schedule:

• Early November, late January – early February and early June

Online event dates (for all participants):

• Tuesday evenings – dates to be confirmed

Visits to national institutions: these will vary depending on your location. A full schedule will be provided at the start of the programme.

Each application is handled by the relevant national team. Once submitted, a national lead will contact you to schedule an informal interview before extending an offer. Once an offer has been made an initial deposit payment will secure your space.

Closing date

We process applications as they are received and intend to close recruitment around Easter 2025. There may still be spaces beyond this but there are no guarantees. If you want to apply for our 25/26 programmes get your application in!

Still have questions? If you need more information, visit our FAQ page or contact the Public Leadership team at publicleadership@​eauk.​org.

The Public Leadership programme initiative is part of the Evangelical Alliance’s work to speak for Jesus in society. You can support the work of Public Leadership for as little as £3 a month by becoming a member of the Evangelical Alliance. Join us today as together we make Jesus known.