DA Young Leaders Programme 2027 Develops Public Leadership and Communication Skills
Young South Africans interested in politics, government and public service can apply for the Democratic Alliance Young Leaders Programme 2027, a one-year leadership development programme focused on political knowledge, communication, critical thinking and personal development.
The programme is open to South African citizens between the ages of 18 and 35 who have demonstrated leadership ability and who align with the Democratic Alliance’s stated values.
Applications close on 25 September 2026.
What does the programme offer?
The Young Leaders Programme combines political education with practical leadership development.
Participants spend the year building knowledge and skills in areas such as:
- Political and public-sector understanding
- Critical thinking
- Written communication
- Public speaking
- Leadership
- Personal development
- Community engagement
- Project planning
Participants are also required to design and complete a leadership project during the programme.
Who can apply?
Applicants must be South African citizens between 18 and 35 years old.
The programme is aimed at young people who already have a record of leadership and community involvement and who are interested in developing further.
Applicants should also be interested in careers connected to:
- Politics
- Government
- Public service
- Public leadership
- Community development
- Policy
The DA states that applicants need to align with its liberal values and principles.
What leadership skills can participants develop?
The programme places strong emphasis on communication and decision-making.
Participants are challenged to strengthen their:
- Writing
- Public speaking
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Leadership judgement
- Self-awareness
- Emotional maturity
These are transferable skills that can also be useful in public administration, advocacy, policy work, communications and organisational leadership.
What is the leadership project?
Each participant completes a practical leadership project during the programme.
The project is intended to give participants experience in planning, collaboration and public leadership.
Previous projects highlighted by the DA have included community initiatives related to education, employment, housing and awareness campaigns.
The project component gives participants an opportunity to apply leadership skills outside formal training sessions.
Can you study or work while taking part?
The programme is structured as a part-time leadership development initiative rather than a conventional full-time internship. The DA has previously described the programme as suitable for people pursuing careers or studies while participating.
Applicants should still make sure they can commit to the programme’s required sessions, retreats and leadership project.
Do you need a university degree?
A tertiary qualification is not presented as a general entry requirement on the programme page.
The emphasis is instead on leadership experience, values alignment and interest in politics or public service.
This makes the programme accessible to young applicants from different educational and professional backgrounds.
What professional development can participants gain?
The programme can help participants develop skills relevant to several career areas, including:
- Public administration
- Policy
- Government relations
- Political communication
- Community leadership
- Public affairs
- Advocacy
- Stakeholder engagement
The value of the programme depends heavily on the participant’s career goals, particularly whether they are interested in politics, government or public service.
How large is the alumni network?
The DA reports that more than 330 people have completed the Young Leaders Programme, with alumni working in public office, community initiatives and within the party.
It also states that 84 alumni are currently serving in public office in roles that include Members of Parliament, provincial legislators and councillors.
What should applicants know before applying?
The programme is explicitly linked to the Democratic Alliance and its political values.
Applicants should therefore understand that this is not a politically neutral leadership course. It is designed for people who share the party’s stated principles and are interested in political or public-service leadership.
Candidates who are temporarily outside South Africa must be able to return in time for the programme.
International travel costs are not covered.
How do you apply?
Applications must be submitted through the Democratic Alliance’s Young Leaders Programme page.
Apply for the DA Young Leaders Programme 2027
Applications close on 25 September 2026.
Applicants should review the programme requirements carefully before applying and make sure they can commit to the full year of leadership development activities.
