On 3 July 2025, the 13th Cohort of the European Leadership Programme (ELP) concluded its intensive five-month journey in Brussels. The graduation ceremony, held at Press Club Brussels, marked a transition as young professionals and emerging leaders were celebrated for their transformative growth and readiness to contribute to European civic and policy life.

ELP is an immersive formation programme launched by the Jesuit European Social Centre (JESC) in collaboration with partners like UCSIA. Over five months, participants engage in community living, ethical leadership formation, coaching, and work placements within EU-related institutions—bridging theory with real-world impact.

Ceremony Highlights and Key Messages

• Otilia Dhand, Institutional Relations Director at Temasek, delivered the keynote address, reflecting on leadership as "the power of everyday deeds."

• Erik De Bom, Acting Director at UCSIA, shared a stirring reminder that “compassion must be personal. Solidarity must be political,” affirming the importance of transforming personal values into social engagement.

Graduates were urged to nourish the community they’ve built, emphasizing the importance of sustaining relationships beyond the programme. The newly launched ELP Alumni Board, introduced during the ceremony, ensures that the bonds formed during the programme evolve into long-term connections and opportunities for collaboration.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the upcoming 14th cohort in autumn 2025, continuing the ELP’s mission of shaping ethically grounded, socially committed leaders, aligned with the Jesuit vision of a more just and sustainable Europe