INNOVATIVE and forward thinking business leaders are being invited to join Common Purpose - a campaigning organisation which has more than 200 members in the Southampton region.

Set up in the city in 1996 Common Purpose aims to improve the way society works by increasing the number of informed individuals actively involved in shaping the future of the area in which they live or work.

In Southampton programme director Kate Moore is looking for more people to join the upcoming programmes.

"We are looking for the key people in organisations who can effect change and have the ability to make a difference. Common Purpose programmes will provide these people with new information and knowledge about how to be effective in the city and its surrounding areas. It will also provide new networks with the key people in the area as well as increased leadership competencies."

Common Purpose Southampton is running a new programme this year starting on June 25 called "Profile". The programme consists of two intense and fast-paced days which provide an overview of Southampton and offer introductions to the key players.

This programme is for leaders who want to take a fresh look at Southampton in its current

context, or leaders who are new to the area and want an introduction to the issues, people and institutions that are crucial to the area's

success.

Applications are now being accepted for this programme. Places are strictly limited, so interest should be registered early.

A launch for the longer "Matrix" programme will be held on the 11 July at the Beatrice Royal Gallery at 8.30 am.

This launch will provide an opportunity to hear more about what Common Purpose offers and how its programmes create better leaders, new networks and stronger communities. Anyone who is interested in attending this launch should get in touch now to secure an invitation on 023 8022 7815 or southampton@commonpurpose.org.uk.