This program draws its inspiration from four major sources.
- NSL Experience in Other Areas: One is similar programs that the NSL directors have been instrumental in designing and delivering over the past twenty years with young leaders from Australia, Northern Ireland and South Africa. NSL President, Paul Costello, in addition to his role as founding director of The Centre for Narrative Studies, has also designed a number of training and leadership programs that use the power of stories for transformative change, most notably as the architect behind the innovative narrative design of the Washington Ireland Program, 2000-2007. He was also the founder of Rosies, Friends on the Street, a street outreach to the homeless that operates in 6 cities in Australia, and more recently, the South African Intern Program in 2006.
- Narrative Method in Modern Business: Another is the body of theory and practice in narrative method that is increasingly influencing business. psychology and leadership development. This approach has been analysed by the Center for Narrative Studies for over fifteen years. (see The Center for Narrative Studies)
- Middle East Organisations: The third source are the lessons learned from other recognized Middle East programs such as Seeds of Peace, which began comparable work with teenagers almost twenty years ago. (see Seeds of Peace)
- The Young People: The final inspiration is the energy and idealism of young people who for years have partnered with the founders of NSL to mold and prove the power of the narrative approach. The key to running successful young adult programs is to understand from the start that it is about their story before it is about anyone else’s.
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