Meet the class of 2022

We asked a number of our Boardroom Apprentices what it has been like for them.

NI Collage 1 Master
Polona Regina LS

Polona Rogina

I’ve heard Eileen give a TedTalk a few years ago and I thought the Boardroom Apprentice programme was a fantastic idea but felt way too junior in my career and too young to apply. Last year by coincidence I saw a call for applications, and I felt that now maybe I have something to contribute. I’ve always worked in the private sector, so I wanted to give something back, make a difference as well as gain an interesting, valuable experience.

These were my thoughts during the application process and now looking back, the programme has given me this and more. I’ve learnt so much during the learning days from presenters as well as from my group. Sitting on a board of NIHE has shown me the passion everyone at the NIHE has to make a difference and support communities. 

 Main wisdom I want to share is not to be afraid of asking questions. I think curiosity is one of the best things you can bring to the table. By being curious and asking questions you will be able to show a different perspective that maybe hasn’t been thought of. And of course, don’t be afraid to apply, you won’t regret it! 

Stuart Harkin LS

Stuart Harkin

“Why apply? You might be monitoring the Boardroom Apprentice or only finding out about it. You’re probably thinking, why apply? I’m not qualified, or this isn’t for me. That’s exactly how I felt. I asked myself, do I have the experience for this? The picture of a boardroom had me thinking, everyone is senior levels and high-powered.

I applied because I wanted to give myself a challenge, grow, and give back where I can. Joining the Boardroom Apprentice brought two feelings; Excitement because of the opportunity and doubt because of the thought I’m maybe underqualified. How wrong I was, this opportunity has presented many things, confidence, friendship, and skills I never thought I had. Learning days and sitting with a host board provide comfort and faith in yourself. 

If you’re thinking Why Apply? You’ll look back like me and see your value!”

Emma O'Neill LS

Emma O’Neill

I applied to Boardroom Apprentice to gain valuable experience and development, to not only support me in my own career but also to enhance the impact I can make within my community and those I support and advocate for.

My host Board, The Charity Commission plays a crucial role in the development of charities in Northern Ireland , enabling them to meet modern expectations and obligations.  For this reason, I derived real benefit from this Board and, in turn, can now how I can use this knowledge and perspective to implement best practice approaches.

Boardroom Apprentice has enhanced my learning and perspective on the wider charity and public sector in Northern Ireland, including regulatory and public accountability standards.

This was my first-time being part of something so diverse and impactful which has provided lifetime meaningful experiences, friendships and new challenges for me from which to develop my career and my organisational service delivery approach.  As Eileen often reminds us “Be comfortable with the uncomfortable.”

Harry Robinson LS

Harry Robinson

I applied for Boardroom Apprentice for both professional and personal reasons. Professionally, I knew that the experience gained from Boardroom Apprentice would help me to develop skills and confidence. Personally, I want to be able to contribute to NI society in areas that are important to me – that’s why I wanted to work with the Equality Commission and I’m really happy to have been placed there.

The knowledge and experience that I have gained from the learning days and being part of a host board has exceeded my expectations and helped me to develop skills that I use in my leadership role. The biggest surprise for me was what I gained from being part of a Boardroom Apprentice team, I have met some fantastic people who have been hugely supportive of one another throughout the programme.

I think we all suffer from a degree of imposter syndrome but don’t let that stand in your way.  It’s easy to look at the boardroom and think you don’t belong there, for me that’s because I grew up in poverty and spent time in the care system. The Boardroom Apprentice is changing what it looks like to be a board member and is opening up these opportunities to more diverse people and that’s a powerful movement to be part of.

Meet Hannah, Jules, Craig, Emma, Cheryl and Jonny

Hear from the Boardroom Apprentice Class of 2022