Jonathan Stewart reflects on 25 Years with the British Council
Last week, we said farewell to our Director, Jonathan Stewart, after 25 years with the British Council – a milestone marked by dedication, collaboration and a deep belief in the power of international connection.
Jonathan’s journey with the organisation began back in the late 1990s, with teaching placements in Saudi Arabia and Jordan. A few years later, he returned home to Northern Ireland to work in European affairs, helping schools and colleges access EU funding and build European partnerships. From there, he went on to become Deputy Director, and in 2018, took up the role of Director.
Over the years, he’s been a driving force behind our work in Northern Ireland – championing young people, supporting the arts, and sharing experience of Northern Ireland in building a socially cohesive society.
Before he stepped down, we had the chance to sit down with him and reflect on the moments that shaped his career – and what he'll miss most.
What stands out most when you reflect on your time with the British Council?
Jonathan:
“My experience has shown me the transformative power of international engagement. Watching young people from Northern Ireland take part in programmes like Study USA and come back with new perspectives is incredibly rewarding. It’s about more than education - it’s about cultural connection, mutual understanding, acceptance of difference and opening doors to opportunity.
“What’s unique about our work here is the way we connect Northern Ireland’s education and arts sectors with the wider world. It’s a two-way exchange - bringing global ideas here and sharing our own stories abroad. I’ve been proud to be part of that.”
What moments or milestones have been particular highlights for you?
Jonathan:
“There have been many. The Peace and Beyond programmes in 2018 and 2023 really stand out. They marked the 20th and 25th anniversaries of the Good Friday Agreement and brought people from around the world to Northern Ireland to share and learn from each other’s experiences of reconciliation. In 2023, we focused on socially engaged arts - using theatre, literature, dance and street art to explore how creativity can support conflict transformation and social cohesion. Those weren’t just one-off events - they sparked collaborations that are still growing today.”
“Another moment I’m proud of was organising the British Council’s first Annual Lecture in Northern Ireland in 2009, marking the organisation’s 75th anniversary. Shami Chakrabarti gave a powerful talk on human rights at her talk in the Playhouse in Derry/Londonderry. Then in 2011, Ben Hammersley spoke about how digital technology could both unite and challenge society. They were very different topics - but both captured the essence of what we stand for: open, respectful dialogue.”
You’ve worked closely with schools and young people — why has that been so important to you?
Jonathan:
“It goes to the heart of our mission - building understanding and trust. Supporting students through programmes like eTwinning and Study USA has been one of the most rewarding parts of my job.
“One personal highlight was developing the Mock Council of the European Union, which we ran every year at Stormont. Students role-played as Ministers and debated real policy issues. After Brexit, we evolved it into the Mock COP climate simulation. These programmes go far beyond subject knowledge - they help young people develop confidence, critical thinking, and a global mindset.”
Are there any fun or unexpected moments that have stuck with you?
Jonathan:
“Absolutely - quite a few! In 2015, we helped break the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest practical science lesson. We worked with the Northern Ireland Science Festival and the Royal Society of Chemistry. It was a great example of collaboration and such an uplifting day.
“Another memory that really stands out was from my early career, when I was working in European affairs during the EU enlargement. We organised a roadshow that visited around half of all post-primary schools in Northern Ireland - literally travelling in a van to talk to students about what the expansion of the EU meant for their future. It was such a creative, hands-on way to bring European issues to life. I remember those school visits vividly.”
You’ve worked with a lot of different organisations. Which partnerships meant the most?
Jonathan:
“We’ve been incredibly fortunate to work with brilliant partners across education, the arts and civil society. We worked with Belfast City Council during its recent Year of Culture, where we supported the international strand of programming. In the arts, we’ve had long-standing partnerships with Belfast International Arts Festival, Outburst Queer Arts Festival, the Northern Ireland Science Festival, and many others.
“In higher education, we’ve worked closely with Queen’s University Belfast, Ulster University, Stranmillis University College, St Mary’s University College and FE Colleges - welcoming international delegations and helping position Northern Ireland as a study destination. Those relationships have been central to everything we’ve achieved.
“I have also benefitted from sound advice and steer from our chair and NI Advisory committee who represent and keep the organisation connected and aligned to broader Northern Ireland society.”
Was there a moment where it really hit you — “this is why I do this”?
Jonathan:
“Definitely. It’s the personal stories that stay with you - students who return from exchange programmes saying, ‘That changed my life.’ Artists who gain new audiences. The many people I met through a project years ago and are still working together connecting with Northern Ireland.
“You don’t always see the full impact straight away - but over time, you notice the ripple effects. And that’s what makes it worthwhile.”
What’s next for the British Council in Northern Ireland?
Jonathan:
“We’ve just started a new four-year PEACEPLUS programme, working with fantastic partners like Politics in Action, Create Ireland, and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Arts Council Ireland. It continues our long-standing focus on social cohesion, creativity and people-to-people connection.
“And as we approach British Council Northern Ireland's 80th anniversary, it’s both a moment to reflect - and to look forward. In a world marked by division, disinformation and uncertainty, our mission is more relevant than ever. Just like in 1934, we respond to global challenges by building connections, enhancing understanding and trust — through education, arts and culture, and the English language.”
Finally, how would you sum up your time with the British Council?
Jonathan:
“it’s been a privilege to work for a global organisation that puts education, culture, and mutual understanding at the heart of what it does. Over 25 years, I’ve seen how those values can create real impact - and that’s what kept me here.
“I’ve been lucky to work with an incredible team - thoughtful, dedicated, and values-driven. Even when things were tough, we trusted our instincts and stayed focused on what mattered most. That’s something I’ll always carry with me.
“The British Council has been more than a job - it’s been a huge part of my life. It’s emotional to step away, but I’m proud of what we’ve built together - and excited to see where it goes next.”