The DA Young Leaders Programme is deeply grounded in the DA’s vision for South Africa. The Programme seeks to develop and grow our country’s future leaders responsible for upholding this vision of One Nation with One Future, and our core values of Freedom, Fairness, Opportunity and Diversity in politics and government. This article provides an overview of the young leaders programme, eligibility criteria, programme benefits, method of application and application deadline.
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About the Young Leaders Programme
In the DA’s South Africa, all individuals will have the opportunity to live a life that they value. This South Africa is dynamic and innovative, with a growing, inclusive economy and capable government which defends the Constitution and ensures equal opportunity for all – regardless of where they are born, how they look, or any other arbitrary characteristic. We know that South Africa will need excellent leaders to realise this dream hence, the Young Leaders programme was created.
The DA’s Young Leaders Programme (YLP) is a political leadership learning and development programme for South Africans between the ages of 18 and 35 who align themselves with the DA’s values of Freedom, Fairness, Opportunity and Diversity. Participants of the programme are highly motivated individuals, interested in pursuing a career in politics or the public service, with the aim of creating One Nation with One Future.
Over the course of one year, participants of the programme will be given the chance to broaden their political knowledge, critical thinking and communication skills. Participants will also get to know themselves, and their personal leadership style and development needs a lot better during dedicated sessions on leadership and personal development. In addition, Young Leaders will be required to conceptualise and undertake a leadership project, giving them a unique opportunity to expand their influence, self-awareness and emotional maturity, so that they can become dynamic, resilient leaders who are able to tackle politics on the national stage.
Who is A Young Leader?
Young Leaders are individuals who are already making a difference where they are. They are known for the values and principles they live by, and are committed to not only bringing about change in their communities but also growing and developing their own potential. Our Young Leaders are able to align their own personal value set to the DA’s liberal values, and are passionate about working hard towards a better South Africa, considering politics and government as a serious career option for their own future.
Young Leaders are innovators and dreamers. They are never complacent or content with how things are; they are always aspiring to greater heights, rising to new challenges, and willing to learn more.
Young Leaders typically demonstrate many of the following characteristics:
- A personal ideological alignment to the DA’s vision of One Nation with One Future, rooted in our values of Freedom, Fairness, Opportunity and Diversity;
- A high level of interest in, and knowledge about, South African politics and current affairs;
- An excellent understanding of the DA’s principles and policies;
- A demonstrable leadership track record
- Examples and evidence of having taken initiative, stepping outside normal roles to start something new;
- The ability to argue and reason well;
- Passion, drive and confidence;
- An authentic motivation to be actively involved in politics in future;
- A high level of self-awareness, maturity and emotional intelligence;
Involvement in the DA.
Payments or Costs?
All payments related directly to the Young Leaders Programme (YLP) are covered by the DA.
Eligibility Criteria
The YLP is open to all young South African citizens between the ages of 18 and 35, with a track record of leadership excellence. These applicants must share the DA’s vision and must have proven themselves to be passionate leaders set on making a difference in South Africa. Participants must either be living in South Africa or if they are temporarily abroad, be returning to South Africa in time for the start of the programme. The Young Leaders Programme does not cover international travelling costs.
Application Method and Deadline
Interested applicants should click HERE to begin their application process. Note that the deadline for application is August 30th, 2023.
For more fellowship opportunities, click HERE.
