The 68th Youth Leadership Conference, presented by Netwerk24 and Die Burger, is set to take place in two sessions for the first time in its history. The conferences will be held from December 4-9 and December 10-15, 2026, at Kleinbosch in the Paarl. This year's event marks a milestone, celebrating 68 years of empowering young leaders. The conference has been running since 1959, initially only open to learners from the Western, Northern, and Eastern Cape provinces.
The expansion to two conferences is a response to growing demand for the event, which aims to provide a platform for young leaders to develop their skills, build meaningful networks, and forge lasting friendships. Learners from all provinces are now eligible to apply, following a national project launch in 2025. The conferences will feature workshops, debates, and interactive activities designed to challenge and grow participants in a supportive environment.
The conference takes place at Kleinbosch, a unique learning environment near the Paarl, situated on the historic site of the Huguenot Memorial School. The venue offers world-class facilities, including modern dormitories, high-tech learning resources, sports and recreational facilities, and a swimming pool. The event is conducted in Afrikaans, but applicants from all language groups are considered if they can communicate effectively in Afrikaans.
To apply, schools must nominate their chosen chairperson and/or deputy chairperson of the school's learner council for 2027 by November 4, 2026. A selection process follows, and schools must also submit a 30-second video of the youth leader making a presentation to support their nomination. Only grade 12 learners who are members of their school's learner council and have been elected as chairperson or deputy chairperson are eligible.
The conference is free for selected learners, with all accommodation, excursions, transportation, and meals covered by Netwerk24 and Die Burger. Applicants can indicate their preferred conference dates during the application process, but the final allocation will be at the discretion of the organizers. The event aims to provide a unique opportunity for learners to develop their leadership skills and critical thinking.
The Youth Leadership Conference has become a prestigious event, with a long history of empowering young leaders. By providing a platform for learners to engage with contemporary issues and develop their skills, the conference aims to shape the next generation of leaders in South Africa. Interested schools can apply by visiting the provided link or contacting Samantha van den Berg at [email protected] for more information.
The conference offers a unique experience for young leaders, with a focus on leadership development, critical thinking, and networking. With two sessions available, more learners will have the opportunity to participate and benefit from the event. The organizers encourage schools to nominate their learners for this valuable experience, which can help shape their future careers and personal growth.
Key points
- Two conferences will be held, from December 4-9 and December 10-15, 2026.
- The event is open to learners from all provinces, not just the Western, Northern, and Eastern Cape.
- The conference is free for selected learners, covering accommodation, excursions, transportation, and meals.
