Youth Leadership Academy
Developing tomorrow's leaders.
______
Launched in 2024, the Southland Youth Leadership Academy (SYLA) is a transformative initiative designed to harness the leadership potential of Southland youth. By developing leadership and governance skills, SYLA empowers participants to thrive both personally and professionally, preparing them to make a meaningful impact in their lives, communities, and beyond.
What’s involved?
The SYLA experience is structured around three key elements delivered over six engaging half-day sessions:
- Personal growth and self-awareness:
Build confidence, enhance your self-awareness, and unlock your true leadership potential - Inspiring guest speakers and field trips:
Gain new perspectives and insights from influential leaders, plus explore real-world experiences through field trips, and hands-on activities - Reflection and collaboration:
Collaborate with peers and reflect on your journey.
Who should apply?
SYLA is for young people aged 18-24 years who have been identified by their educators or employers. We’re looking for participants who possess:
- Leadership potential and a desire to actively develop their skills
- A special spark or quality that sets them apart
- A passion for enhancing their leadership journey
- An openness to new leadership opportunities, even if they haven’t had access to similar programmes before
- A commitment to collaborating as part of a team, contributing ideas, and growing together.
What you’ll gain.
At the end of SYLA, participants will:
- Be better equipped to lead with confidence in personal, academic, and professional settings
- Have a clearer understanding of their leadership strengths and areas for growth
- Develop lasting connections with like-minded individuals and mentors from Southland’s business and community networks.
A legacy of leadership.
Alumni may also continue their leadership journey by attending the Southland Leadership Academy and/ or participating in the Governance Internship Programme.
Empowering through partnership
We are incredibly grateful to our generous funding partners who have helped bring SYLA to life. Their support ensures the future of Southland’s youth leadership is bright. If your organisation would like to sponsor a local rangatahi to attend a future SYLA intake or support this inspiring programme, please reach out to us. Together, we can help cultivate the next generation of Southland leaders.
