Applications for the 2027 Young Leaders Programme are now open.

Applications close on 25 September 2026.

Apply now and take the next step in your leadership journey.

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 pogramme 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. Click to Apply.

 

Who can benefit from the Young Leaders Programme?

The Young Leaders Programme (YLP) is designed for young people who are already making a positive impact in their communities. They are recognised for their integrity, leadership, and commitment to serving others, and are driven to create meaningful change while continuing to grow and develop their own potential.

Successful applicants are able to align their personal values with the Democratic Alliance’s liberal values and principles. They are passionate about building a better South Africa and see politics, public service, or government as a meaningful career path.

Through the Programme, participants gain practical leadership skills and opportunities for personal and professional development. They are challenged to think critically, communicate effectively, and strengthen their writing, public speaking, and leadership abilities. Above all, the YLP equips young leaders with the knowledge, confidence, and network to make an even greater impact in their communities and our country. Apply here.

To learn more about what the Programme is all about, you can also have a listen to what our graduates have to say about it below.

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The DA’s vision for South Africa

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. You can learn more about the DA’s dream for South Africa here.

We know that South Africa will need excellent leaders to realise this dream.

Click her to view the Class of 2026 Young Leaders’ bios.

Our Impact

Since its launch, the Young Leaders Programme has more than 330 graduates who are making a tangible difference across South Africa—in public office, within the Democratic Alliance, and in their communities.

• 330+ graduates have completed the programme.
• 84 alumni are currently serving in public office as Members of Parliament, Members of Provincial Legislatures, councillors, and other elected representatives.
• 7 members of the Democratic Alliance’s leadership are Young Leaders Programme alumni, demonstrating the programme’s role in developing the party’s future leaders.
• Alumni continue to lead change through community initiatives, public service, and policy development across the country. Click to apply.

Leadership in Action

Every participant completes a leadership project designed to create meaningful impact within their community. These projects address real challenges and provide participants with practical experience in planning, collaboration, and public leadership.

Some examples include:

• Anti-gender-based violence awareness campaigns, empowering young women and organising a mass gathering against Gender-Based Violence.
• School support programmes, including helping disadvantaged schoolchildren, providing them with proper shoes to boost confidence and pride.
• Female youth employment projects, bridging the gap between high school education and full-time employment for disadvantaged girls.
• Housing and education projects, building houses in vulnerable areas of the Western Cape, and educating the locals on the sandbag system to protect against flooding.

These projects not only benefit communities but also equip participants with practical leadership experience, preparing them to become effective public representatives and changemakers. Apply to be part of the programme.

Frequently asked questions