The Real-World Consultancy Challenge at QUB

Aflac Northern Ireland was delighted to once again take part in Queen’s University Belfast’s Real-World Consultancy Programme, a four-day initiative that brings students together to tackle live business challenges using a design thinking approach. The 2026 programme ran from 26th – 29th May, giving students the opportunity to work in multidisciplinary teams and develop skills in creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. 

 We really enjoyed being part of the Real-World Consultancy Challenge at QUB. It was a fantastic experience, and the energy and engagement from the students really stood out. For this year’s challenge, Aflac Northern Ireland asked students to explore how health planning and financial protection could be made more relevant and engaging for young adults aged 18 to 30. 

Our student team did an amazing job of understanding the problem and developing an exciting app concept that would allow users to track healthy movements and behaviours, earn points, and be rewarded. We were very impressed by the strength of their solution concept, their collaboration throughout, and the clarity of their final presentation. Thank you to QUB and REJIG for organising this event. This was Aflac Northern Ireland’s third year participating, and we look forward to the next one.

Written by; Barbara Donoghue | Product Owner