Students from across Guernsey have been sharing their perspectives on the island’s future as part of the latest Leaders of Tomorrow programme, supported by the Ana Leaf Foundation in partnership with the Institute of Directors.
35 students took part in a dedicated workshop during September, bringing together young people and members of Guernsey’s business community to explore a central question: what does Guernsey need to grow next?
The Leaders of Tomorrow programme is sponsored by the Ana Leaf Foundation, which aims to create meaningful opportunities for young islanders to develop confidence, broaden their horizons, and connect with future career opportunities.
The workshop forms part of an expanded Leaders of Tomorrow programme linked to this year’s IoD Conference, Unlocking Economic Growth: Guernsey’s Competitive Future. Through discussion sessions and reverse mentoring conversations, students were encouraged to share their views on leadership, opportunity, economic growth and the future of island life, while hearing directly from business leaders about the challenges and opportunities facing Guernsey.
The students from the workshop will now go on to attend the IoD Conference in November, where they will continue the conversation and bring their perspectives into the wider discussion around Guernsey’s competitive future.
Hayley de Putron, Trustee of the Ana Leaf Foundation, said “We believe young people should have the opportunity not only to learn from today’s leaders but also to influence tomorrow’s decisions. It is inspiring to see students engaging so confidently, sharing ideas and contributing to conversations about Guernsey’s future. We are proud to support a programme that helps build connections, confidence, and ambition among the island’s future leaders.”
Glen Tonks, Chair of the IoD Guernsey, added: “One of the greatest opportunities we have as a business community is to listen to the next generation. The perspectives shared by students during the workshop were thoughtful, challenging, and incredibly valuable. We need to ensure young people are part of the conversations – Leaders of Tomorrow creates a space for exactly that.”
