Apply for the Democratic Alliance (DA) Young Leaders Programme 2027 (YLP) - a fully funded, one-year political leadership development programme for young South Africans aged 18 - 35 who align with the DA's values of Freedom, Fairness, Opportunity, and Diversity. Applications close 25 September 2026 at 17:00 SAST.
The YLP is South Africa's leading part-time political leadership programme, equipping motivated young changemakers with political knowledge, critical thinking, communication skills, and a national network to pursue careers in politics and public service.
This Opportunity Station guide is original copy based on the official DA Young Leaders Programme page. It is not a reprint of any third-party blog.
Quick Facts - DA Young Leaders Programme 2027
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | DA Young Leaders Programme (YLP) - Class of 2027 |
| Organiser | Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa |
| Type | Political leadership learning and development (part-time, 1 year) |
| Duration | One year (part-time alongside work or study) |
| Funding | Fully funded - all programme costs covered by the DA |
| Opens | 1 September 2026 |
| Deadline | 25 September 2026, 17:00 SAST |
| Who | South African citizens aged 18 - 35 with leadership track record |
| Official page | da.org.za/young-leaders-programme |
| Apply | youngleaders.org.za - official application |
What Is the DA Young Leaders Programme?
The Young Leaders Programme (YLP) is the Democratic Alliance's flagship political leadership development initiative. Since its launch in 2007, it has graduated 330+ young leaders, with 84 alumni currently serving in public office - including MPs, MPLs, councillors, ministers, and mayors.
Over one year, participants broaden their political knowledge, strengthen critical thinking and communication skills, explore personal leadership styles, and complete a community leadership project designed to create real impact.
The programme is part-time, so selected Young Leaders can continue working or studying full-time while participating in retreats, sessions, and project work.
Programme Benefits
- All costs directly related to the YLP are covered by the DA - fully funded participation
- One year of structured political leadership and personal development training
- Sessions on political knowledge, critical thinking, communication, and public speaking
- Dedicated leadership and personal development workshops
- Leadership project - conceptualise and deliver a community impact initiative
- Access to a national network of DA Young Leaders alumni and mentors
- Pathway toward careers in politics, public service, and government
- Join a community of changemakers committed to One Nation with One Future
Note: International travel costs to return to South Africa are not covered if you are temporarily abroad.
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens aged 18 - 35 (must be 18+ and 35 or younger when the programme starts)
- Track record of leadership excellence and community impact
- Align with the DA's values: Freedom, Fairness, Opportunity, and Diversity
- Passionate about building a better South Africa through politics or public service
- Living in South Africa, or temporarily abroad but returning in time for programme start
- No tertiary qualification required - leadership and values alignment matter most
- Previous unsuccessful applicants may reapply; prior DA leadership programme participants may also apply
How to Apply
- Read the full programme details on DA Young Leaders Programme and youngleaders.org.za.
- Complete the online application form in full, including two short essay questions.
- Record and upload a 60-second video (maximum) via the application portal.
- Upload one reference letter (not older than 6 months recommended).
- Submit everything before 25 September 2026 at 17:00 SAST.
No application fee is required.
Required Documents
- Completed online application form (including two short essay questions)
- 60-second video recording uploaded via the application form
- One reference letter uploaded via the application form
Programme Impact
- 330+ graduates since 2007
- 84 alumni currently in public office (MPs, MPLs, councillors, ministers, mayors, and more)
- 7 members of DA leadership are YLP alumni
- Alumni lead community initiatives, public service, and policy development nationwide
Leadership Project Examples
Every participant completes a community leadership project. Past examples include:
- Anti-gender-based violence awareness campaigns and community gatherings
- School support programmes providing shoes and resources for disadvantaged learners
- Female youth employment projects bridging education and employment gaps
- Housing and flood-protection education projects in vulnerable Western Cape communities
Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | 1 September 2026 |
| Application deadline | 25 September 2026, 17:00 SAST |
| Programme year | Class of 2027 (one-year part-time programme) |
Official Links
Apply - DA Young Leaders Programme 2027
Programme overview - Democratic Alliance
Contact YLP office: youngleaders@da.org.za · +27 (0)21 465 1431
Related Opportunities on Opportunity Station
- Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2026
- Leading Change Fellowship 2026
- Ashinaga Africa Initiative 2027
- WHO Global Youth Competition 2026
- Browse all fellowships
FAQs - DA Young Leaders Programme 2027
Is it fully funded?
Yes. All costs directly related to the YLP are covered by the DA.
When is the deadline?
25 September 2026 at 17:00 SAST (South African Standard Time).
Do I need a university degree?
No. A tertiary qualification is not required - leadership track record and values alignment are key.
Can I work full-time while participating?
Yes. The YLP is a part-time programme designed for young professionals and students.
Do I need to be a DA member?
You must align with DA values and vision; active DA membership is not strictly required per official FAQs.
Can I reapply if I was rejected before?
Yes. You may submit one application per year even if you previously applied unsuccessfully.
What if I am turning 35 in 2027?
You must be 35 or younger when the programme starts. Check official age criteria on the application page.
