Democratic Alliance (DA) Young Leaders Programme 2025

The Democratic Alliance (DA) is now accepting applications for its prestigious Young Leaders Programme 2025, a comprehensive political leadership development initiative. This program is designed for South African citizens aged 18-35 who share the DA’s core values of Freedom, Fairness, Opportunity, and Diversity.

The YLP seeks driven individuals aspiring to make a difference in politics or public service, with a vision of building a unified nation with a shared 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 conceptualize 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.

Cost

All costs directly related to the YLP are covered by the DA.

Eligibility

• 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 traveling costs.