Formerly 'The Tim Parry Scholarship', this cultural youth exchange programmer was developed in 1996 as the first Foundation programme and is run in memory of Tim.

It is an Anglo-Irish youth exchange programme working with young people aged 16+ who have demonstrated leadership skills within their schools and communities.

The programme aims to improve Anglo-Irish- Northern-Irish relationships (including across the communities in Northern Ireland) and foster friendships between the young people of Britain, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Twenty-four young people from Belfast, Warrington and Dublin live, learn and socialise together, while exploring the differences and similarities of their respective communities and cultures. The programme raises the self-awareness of participants concerning the different prejudices they can hold and how this can lead to conflict.

Thanks to its success, the Foundation has expanded the Leadership Development Programme to a wider international context to be delivered, for example, to young people from the Middle East or Balkans. Past participants of the programme are encouraged to share their stories and lessons of experience with young people from around the world.

"It was absolutely brilliant.. I think it was more intense than any of us anticipated. The Israel/ Palestine conflict seems to engender even deeper feelings of distrust and even hate."
Duncan Smith, past participant of the Leadership Development Programme on attending a Middle East youth exchange residential programme.

"Not only were the two separate experiences out of this world but the welcome I received and the 'open arms' attitude displayed by everyone at the Peace Centre is greatly appreciated and is exactly what is needed if the overall aim of the Peace Centre is to be achieved."
Mark Beattie, past participant of the Leadership Development Programme on attending a Middle East youth exchange residential programme.

For further information on the programme and its availability please call the Foundation offices on 01925 581 231.