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Youth Leadership Development Programme

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Youth Leadership Development Programme Cohort 2025
Creator: FES Zambia

Empowering Zambia’s Young Leaders

The Youth Leadership Development Programme (YLDP) of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Zambia empowers young leaders to participate in democratic governance and policy processes actively. Grounded in the values of social democracy, the program promotes freedom, justice, and solidarity through informed and responsible leadership by equipping emerging young leaders with the skills, knowledge, and ethical foundation to actively participate in national leadership.

YLDP brings together young leaders from political parties, civil society, trade unions, and the church to deepen their understanding of democracy, policy making, servant leadership, integrity, economic justice, and gender equality. Through block week sessions, participants develop analytical skills, ethical leadership principles, and practical tools for public engagement aimed at influencing political and social life in the country. The program fosters cross-party dialogue and intergenerational exchange, promoting constructive debate across political and ideological divides. By creating safe spaces for discussion, YLDP strengthens democratic culture and supports consensus-building on national development priorities.

Special emphasis is placed on inclusive participation, particularly increasing the representation of young women in decision-making spaces. Participants are encouraged to champion gender-responsive policies and citizen-centred governance in their respective institutions. Through sustained engagement and alumni networks, YLDP contributes to building a new generation of leaders committed to democratic resilience, social justice, and sustainable development in Zambia.

For further information, do not hesitate to contact us via yldp(at)fes-zambia.org

Latest Activities

  • Event
  • News

Raising the Citizen's Voice on the Public Order Act (POA), and the 2026 General Elections

As Zambia approaches the 2026 General Elections, it is vital for citizens, and policy makers to engage in open dialogue on how the policies, and legal frameworks affect political accountability and democratic governance.

A middle-aged African woman with short, curly hair stands at a podium holding a microphone, speaking to an audience. She wears a black sleeveless dress and appears focused. A water bottle is on the podium, and a colorful backdrop featuring text related to public participation is visible behind her.
Creator: FES Zambia
  • Youth Leadership Development Programme
  • Event
  • News

Torch bearers of Zambia's Youth Leadership

In a quest to enhance the participation of young people in a Democracy. The Youth Leadership Development Programme Alumni Zambia, met together to discuss youth participation and leadership vision for the Zambia’s 2026 Elections and...

A middle-aged African man in a suit and red tie holds a microphone and raises his hand while speaking at an event with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung banners in the background.
Creator: FES Zambia
  • Political Dialogue
  • Social Economic Justice
  • News

Commemorating International Women’s Day 2026

The International Women’s Day 2026, dialogue and engagement Forum was held under the theme “Give to Gain: Accelerating Gender Equality through Collaborative and Intentional Support for Women in the 2026 Elections and Beyond.”

Picture by FES Zambia