A hands-on, blended programme built around real access to public life, not just theory.
6-12
Non-consecutive days and/or evenings
Participants chose 2 to 4 areas of public life to focus on
Education — School Governors
Policing — Police and Crime Panels
Criminal Justice — Magistrates
health — NHS Health Board
Voluntary Sector — Trustees
Participants received genuine observation and training, not a lecture — Participants saw first-hand how each role worked, what the responsibilities involved, what the responsibilities involve, and how public appointments are made.
A dedicated leadership seminar covering public speaking, civic activism, and race and representation in public life.
Completely free to take part.
Travel and food costs were covered.
This wasn't just a course; it was a real way into public life.
Participants gained first-hand experience most people never get access to, shadowing real Councillors, Magistrates, School Governors, Trustees, and more.
Participants built genuine, transferable skills: public speaking, leadership, and the confidence to use them.
Participants contributed to closing the representation gap for Black and minority ethnic communities across Brighton & Hove's public life.
Participants helped public institutions better understand the communities they serve.
Participants walked away with something concrete: a certificate, a real network, and a genuine next step into civic life.
Participants did not need a background in politics or public life, just the right mindset.
The programme was designed for dynamic individuals from Black and minority ethnic backgrounds who live or work in Brighton & Hove, with a genuine interest in contributing to their community.
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Formal qualifications needed
No formal qualifications were required, and no prior experience of democracy or civic life either. What matters most is your desire to serve your community and make a real difference.
Successful applicants get structured, fully guided support and blended learning over six months, built around real life, with sessions timed to fit busy working schedules.
Completing the programme is just the start.
A graduation event and certificate on successful completion.
A place in OBV's Alumni network — ongoing support, networking, and further opportunities to develop your civic ambitions.
Real precedent: past OBV programme graduates have gone on to become Councillors, Magistrates, and School Governors — some creating political firsts along the way.
Councillors
Magistrates
School Governors
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