Clyde & Co champions next generation of female leaders through SistersIN Programme

5 March 2026, Belfast: Global law firm Clyde & Co has strengthened its commitment to developing future female leaders by collaborating with the SistersIN Leadership Programme, an initiative that empowers 16-18-year-olds across Northern Ireland with essential leadership skills, mentoring, and real world professional experience.

Running across the current academic year, the programme paired three pupils with Clyde & Co lawyers Gemma Kerr, Rebecca Woods and Rachel Mee – giving students the opportunity to experience the dynamic environment of one of Northern Ireland’s leading law firms. Through a series of virtual mentoring sessions, students received personalised guidance, insight into legal career pathways, and support in building confidence and ambition. 

The programme included a Job Shadow Day on 25 February where the pupils visited the High and County Courts, observing real-life court proceedings. Afterwards, they joined Clyde & Co’s female professionals for a dedicated networking lunch, and a talk from the firm’s early careers team. The experience offered a rare behind the scenes perspective of the legal sector and a chance to connect directly with senior role models from the firm’s Northern Ireland team.

Reflecting on the firm’s involvement, Gemma Kerr, Senior Associate at Clyde & Co, said: “Mentoring through SistersIN has been inspiring – not only for the students, but for us as mentors. This is the second year we’ve supported the programme, which equips young women with practical skills, leadership confidence and real world experience. It was a privilege to welcome students from Fortwilliam, Lumen Christi and Banbridge Academy, to our Belfast office and to contribute to their leadership journey.”

Ella Rourke, Partnerships Manager at SistersIN said: “We were delighted to have mentors from Clyde & Co involved in the SistersIN 25/26 programme. The Job Shadow Day gives SistersIN pupils a unique opportunity to observe their mentor in the workplace, gain valuable insight into a professional environment, and connect with inspiring female role models. Experiences like this are invaluable in building confidence and broadening horizons. The continued support of professionals like those at Clyde & Co helps us inspire and equip young women across Northern Ireland to lead with confidence and ambition.”