SistersIN is a leadership programme dedicated to empowering and equipping Year 13 and 14 girls across Northern Ireland with the confidence, skills, and connections to thrive in their future careers.
Launched in 2022 with just 10 schools, the programme has experienced rapid growth — now working with over 50 schools and connecting nearly 700 girls in the 24-25 programme year with more than 600 professional female mentors from across the business and public sectors.
At the heart of SistersIN is the power of mentoring. Each participating girl is matched with an inspiring female leader, providing a valuable opportunity to learn, grow, and explore future career pathways. For many pupils, it’s their first direct experience of a professional environment — one that helps to build confidence, leadership ability, and ambition.
“I really feel that my confidence has massively improved and I can wholeheartedly say that I’m leaving the programme much better equipped for university, the world of work and life beyond that how I entered it," said one pupil from New-Bridge Integrated College.
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A key priority for SistersIN is introducing girls to industries where women continue to be underrepresented — particularly within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Through mentoring, workplace visits, and project-based learning, the programme creates knowledge pathways and sparks curiosity around future-focused careers. Giving girls access to relatable role models in these sectors is crucial in helping them visualise their place in industries they might not have previously considered.
Encouraging more young women to explore STEM careers isn’tjust about addressing inequality — it’s about preparing for the future. Diverse teams perform better, innovate faster, and create solutions that are more representative of society. By helping girls see their potential and understand the real-world applications of their strengths and interests, SistersIN is opening doors to new possibilities.
“Being part of the SistersIN programme was an empowering experience that deepened my commitment to mentoring and inspired me to keep opening doors for the next generation of women in tech. It reminded me just how powerful connection, support, and visibility can be. I wish I had been offered a similar experience in my school days.” Mentor, 24-25 Programme.
The value of mentoring is also deeply felt by the mentors themselves. Many describe the experience as energising and fulfilling, often gaining just as much from the process as the pupils do. It’s an opportunity to reflect on their own leadership journey, support the next generation, and contribute meaningfully to their organisation’s culture and community impact.
This year, the programme received a significant endorsement from the highest levels of government. Both the First Minister and Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland announced their intention to become SistersIN mentors, recognising the programme’s powerful role in shaping the future of leadership across the region. Their support sends a strong message: empowering young women is a priority, and mentorship is a key driver of change.
Businesses also benefit from getting involved. Supporting SistersIN allows organisations to demonstrate social value, develop internal talent through mentorship, and directly contribute to a more diverse and inclusive future workforce. The programme is already supported by a range of industry partners across sectors — from tech, banking, retail, construction, healthcare and professional services.
As SistersIN prepares to launch the 2025/26 programme year, the call for support is clear. To continue expanding its reach and impact, the programme needs new partners, sponsors, and mentors to join the journey.
Whether you’re a business leader ready to sponsor, a company with brilliant women eager to give back, or an organisation passionate about gender equality and future skills — there’s a place for you in SistersIN.
Help shape the next generation of female leaders. Join us at SistersIN. Contact Gillian at gmckeown@sisters-in.org.
Sync NI's Summer 2025 magazine celebrates women in tech across Ireland as we continue to encourage more women to enter the thriving sector and address the current gender imbalance.
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