Stage 1: Registration of Interest
Follow the instructions on the form exactly as requested, including a short essay on why you chose to apply. At the end, you and a parent/guardian sign a declaration. Deadline: 17 February 2026, 23:59 CAT
Young Leaders Programme
Selection & Programme 2025-26
This intake's selection process ran from February to March 2026, with the programme starting 1 April 2026.
This cycle has closed
Deadline: 17 Feb 2026 (Stage 1) → 2 Mar 2026 (Stage 2)
This application cycle has closed. It's kept here for reference — if you're looking to apply now, see the current application cycle.
This cycle invited recent Grade 12 leavers (who completed high school in 2023 or 2024) with 6-8 points in their best six subjects, from financially-disadvantaged households, who wanted to make a difference in society.
Selection for YLP 2025-26
The selection for the Young Leaders Programme comprised four stages:
Stage 2: Financial Information and Essay
Provide your household income and expenses for one month, plus a longer essay with a set word range — draft and proofread it before submitting. Deadline: 2 March 2026, 23:59 CAT
Stage 3: Community Service
You'll be guided through a community service project and asked to reflect on it. Runs 7–12 March 2026
Stage 4: Final Selection Bootcamp
32 shortlisted applicants are invited to a 3-day bootcamp at our Chibombo site for interviews and to try out the programme. Runs 16–24 March 2026 · YLP 2025-26 began 1 April 2026.
Meet Mercy and her mum
Mercy shares why she loves Our Moon.
Jane, Mercy's mum, shares why they love Our Moon.
Interviewing Brenda
Brenda, our second-year student, shares her experience as a Young Leader.
Your Journey Through the Programme
Year 1: February to March
YLP Entry
Reflection
- Write 2 Speak
- Desire for change
Year 1: April to May
YLP Orientation
Alignment
- SMART goals
- Action plans
- Orientation
- Enhanced ICT and English skill
- Philosophy and ethics
Year 1: June to December
YLP Development
Balance
- Research paper
- SAT, Duolingo
- Community service
- Physical, mental and spiritual health
- University guidance and applications
Year 2: January to July
YLP Exit
Self-Management
- Earn - internship
- Learn - online courses
- Give - community service
- Live - balance
- Pre-departure preparations
Year 2: August onwards
Alumni
Continuity
- University
- Entrepreneurship
- Projects
- Volunteering
- Internships
Young, Ethical Leaders
who can use their social and formal sources of influence to inspire others to take action for positive change
More about the programme
The details on this page are specific to the 2025-26 intake. For the full picture of what the programme involves and who it's for, see Student Information.
Other intakes: 2026-27