Call for Applications: DA Young Leaders Programme (South Africa)

Deadline: 25-Sep-2026

The DA Young Leaders Programme is a year-long political leadership development programme for South Africans aged 18 to 35 who are committed to public service, political leadership and creating positive change in their communities. The programme aims to develop dynamic and resilient young leaders by strengthening political knowledge, critical thinking, communication and personal leadership skills. Participants also gain practical experience by designing and implementing projects that address real challenges within their communities. The programme has produced more than 330 graduates, many of whom have gone on to contribute to public service, policy development and community initiatives across South Africa.

About the DA Young Leaders Programme

The DA Young Leaders Programme is designed for young South Africans who want to pursue careers in politics, government or public service. Through a combination of leadership development activities, dedicated learning sessions, retreats and practical community engagement, participants are encouraged to understand their own leadership styles and identify areas for personal development. The programme also aims to strengthen participants’ ability to think critically about political and social issues and communicate effectively in public leadership environments. What Does the Programme Offer? Participants receive opportunities to develop a range of leadership and public-service skills, including: - Political knowledge and understanding. - Critical thinking. - Communication skills. - Personal leadership development. - Understanding of individual leadership styles. - Identification of personal development needs. - Practical experience in community engagement. - Experience in designing and implementing leadership projects. - Exposure to public service and political leadership. The programme combines personal development with practical community-based leadership, allowing participants to apply what they learn to real-world challenges. Leadership Project Requirement As part of the programme, every participant is required to conceptualise and implement a leadership project addressing a real challenge within their community.

Examples of potential projects include:

- Anti-gender-based violence campaigns. - Youth employment initiatives. - Housing projects. - Education initiatives. - Other community-focused projects addressing local needs. The leadership project gives participants practical experience in identifying problems, developing solutions, engaging communities and taking responsibility for delivering meaningful initiatives. Who Is Eligible to Apply? Applicants must meet the programme’s core eligibility requirements.

They must:

- Be a South African citizen. - Be between 18 and 35 years old. - Align with the Democratic Alliance’s values of Freedom, Fairness, Opportunity and Diversity. - Demonstrate a commitment to public service and community impact. - Be passionate about pursuing a career in politics, government or public service. - Have a genuine interest in creating meaningful change. Applicants should also be prepared to participate actively throughout the year and complete the programme’s leadership development requirements. What Commitment Is Required? The DA Young Leaders Programme is designed to be completed alongside participants’ existing work or studies.

Participants are expected to

- Balance programme commitments with their employment or studies. - Attend required retreats. - Participate in leadership development sessions. - Engage actively with programme activities. - Conceptualise and implement a leadership project. - Complete the required programme commitments throughout the year. Applicants should therefore be prepared to make a sustained commitment to the programme rather than treating it as a short-term training opportunity. Is There an Application Fee? No. There are no application fees for the DA Young Leaders Programme. Applicants can apply without paying a programme application charge. Who Is the Programme Designed For? The programme is particularly suited to young South Africans who see themselves contributing to public life and community development. It may be relevant to individuals who are interested in: - Politics. - Government. - Public service. - Policy development. - Community leadership. - Youth development. - Social impact. - Local community initiatives. A strong interest in leadership and a commitment to addressing real community challenges are central to the programme. How Can Applicants Prepare? Potential applicants should consider how their previous experiences, community involvement and future ambitions demonstrate their commitment to public leadership.

Applicants can prepare by:

- Understanding the programme’s values and objectives. - Reflecting on their personal leadership strengths and development areas. - Identifying community challenges they are passionate about addressing. - Thinking about potential leadership project ideas. - Considering how they can balance the programme with work or studies. - Demonstrating a genuine commitment to public service. - Developing a clear vision for their future contribution to politics, government or community development. A practical understanding of a community issue can also help applicants develop a meaningful leadership project during the programme. Key Facts About the DA Young Leaders Programme

- Programme type: Political leadership development.

- Duration: One year.

- Location: South Africa.

- Eligible age: 18 to 35.

- Citizenship: South African citizenship required.

- Application fee: None.

- Main focus: Political leadership, public service and community impact.

- Core skills: Political knowledge, critical thinking, communication and personal leadership.

- Practical component: Each participant must complete a leadership project.

- Community focus: Projects address real challenges affecting local communities.

- Programme commitment: Participants must balan