Future Leaders Program

The Future Leaders Program is a minimum six-month internship for school leavers who have completed their A/L examinations. It offers structured exposure to economic ideas, public policy, research, communications and the day-to-day work of an independent think tank. Through mentorship and practical assignments, participants develop workplace, research and communication skills while exploring future academic and career pathways.

Eligibility

Build a practical foundation in policy research, economic literacy and professional life.

Team collaborating at a table
  • An introduction to Advocata's mission, core principles and policy work.
  • Foundational learning in economics, public policy and economic freedom.
  • Guidance and regular check-ins with an assigned mentor.
  • Exposure to desk research, data collection and content development.
  • Opportunities to support blogs, explainers, graphics, events or other public-facing work.
  • Participation in team discussions and Knowledge Café learning sessions.
  • Regular feedback and a letter of completion, subject to satisfactory participation.
JOIN THE RESEARCH TEAM

Before You Apply

Students and policy professionals learning together

We're looking for

Who Can Apply?

This program is designed for school leavers who have completed their A/L examinations and can commit for at least six months.

  • School leavers who have completed their A/L examinations.
  • Applicants able to commit for a minimum of six months.
  • Young people interested in economics, public policy, research, communications or current affairs.
  • Applicants seeking practical experience before higher education or full-time employment.
The ideal fit

What we look for

We look for curious, responsible young people who are ready to learn, contribute and follow through on a long-term commitment.

  • Curiosity about economic and public policy issues.
  • A genuine willingness to learn and accept feedback.
  • Clear communication and basic critical-thinking ability.
  • Responsibility, punctuality and commitment.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and complete assigned tasks.
  • Interest in Advocata's mission and principles.
Explore how it works
An intern discussing research with an experienced mentor
Signals of trust

SHAPING POLICY WITH PURPOSE & DRIVE

Hear how research, mentorship and real responsibility shaped their next step.

“What I valued most about my time there was the level of responsibility and trust given to interns. Our input was valued, and we were always encouraged to step up and do more than we might have thought possible.”

Vinuja Singharachchige

Energy Trader (UK Power)

“My experience was dynamic. I learnt to question research, write to the point, and confidently speak in public. I carried forward these learnings when moving into commercial law, particularly when drafting transaction documents, and navigating consultations and negotiations.”

Tiffahny Hoole

Associate Manager

“What made the experience notably special were the people and the culture. Everyone was valued equally, regardless of their position. Interns were never treated as “just interns”; colleagues, interns and even senior management interacted with one another with a genuine sense of friendship and mutual respect. This created an environment where it was easy to ask questions, share ideas, learn from others and genuinely enjoy coming to work.”

Marsha Rozarius

Undergraduate

“I believe that a culmination of experiences I have had at Advocata has opened many windows for me. I was able to relate back to Advocata during many conversations I had after my internship. Regardless of whether it is research or the overall environment I would always recommend Advocata as a learning environment.”

Nishthula Subasinghe

Undergraduate

“The people are what stayed with me the most. I learned from respected academics and sat in rooms with senior government officials, but the relationships are what lasted. Some of the colleagues I worked with became real friends, and I still make time to see them whenever I'm back in Sri Lanka. Advocata's chair became a mentor whose advice I still lean on today.”

Deveen Harischandra

Strategic Project Lead

Work with us

Apply Today

Select the internship pathway that matches your education and availability. Complete the form below, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the Advocata team.

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