Two Causeway Coast men selected for Centre for Democracy and Peace Fellowship Programme

Phil Carson, from Ballycastle, and Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, from Dunloy, are among 28 individuals selected for the programme, which is a respected initiative bringing together changemakers from politics, business, the public sector and civic society.

Phil Carson is Policy Director of the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP). A graduate of Queen’s University Belfast, he previously held roles with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, the largest nature conservation in the UK, where he worked to influence post-Brexit agricultural policy, and the Nature Friendly Farming Network.

Councillor Ciarán McQuillan lives in Dunloy and represents Sinn Féin on Causeway Coast and Glens Council in the Ballymoney DEA. He is passionate about increasing the prospects and opportunities for young people.

Ciarán is very active in his local community, is a member of Cuchullains Dunloy GAA, playing both for the senior hurling and football teams. He has previously served as the chair on the PEACEPLUS Partnership Board and is an active member of the board.

Chosen from a high number of applicants, the new cohort brings together individuals already making an impact across politics, business, the public sector and civic society. The group includes political representatives, entrepreneurs, senior public servants, business leaders, cultural advocates and community organisers.

With representation from five political parties and a broad range of sectors and backgrounds, the new cohort reflects the diversity, talent and ambition shaping Northern Ireland’s future.

Over the next seven months, the Fellows will take part in a transformative leadership programme combining learning, dialogue and collaboration. The programme will provide opportunities to challenge assumptions, exchange ideas and build relationships across political, professional and community divides.

The Fellowship Programme is the Centre for Democracy and Peace’s flagship programme, designed to equip and connect Northern Ireland’s political, business and civic leaders to address the region’s most pressing challenges.

Founded on the lessons of Northern Ireland’s peace process, the Centre for Democracy and Peace works to support individuals, communities and institutions to resolve conflict, uphold human rights and foster reconciliation. Its work is grounded in the belief that democracy can help to heal divisions, build trust and create a better future.