Equipping the
next generation
of changemakers
2024 Youth Leaders Mpumalanga Summit. Photo by Shen Scott
Launched in 2018, the CTAOP Youth Leaders Scholarship (YLS) program provides young leaders who have been nominated by CTAOP Program Partners with funding, tools, and resources to access tertiary studies and achieve long-term success.
YLS was built with the understanding that true lasting change will only come from within communities themselves. CTAOP believes the leaders there are the experts—they are the ones with the vision, the passion, and the true connection to their community.
YLS is an investment in those young leaders, their potential as changemakers, and the future they envision.
What does the Scholarship cover?
Room & Board
Laptop & Internet
Tuition & Books
Travel & Transport
Ongoing Mentorship
Leadership Development
What’s unique about YLS?
Scholars are not selected solely on their academic results. YLS focuses on a candidate’s all-around potential, leadership experience, and passion for community change.
All Scholars complete a Changemaker Project to give them practical project management and leadership experience, and to provide an opportunity for them to manifest their passions and enable positive social change.
CTAOP remains responsive and supportive, continuously learning and evolving our approach to ensure Scholars can navigate any challenges they face.
“With the support of the YL Scholarship, I have felt myself on my way to reaching the truest and highest version of myself.”
~ CTAOP YL Scholar
YLF is a program built to support and cultivate the next generation of community leaders. It includes a one year placement for young changemakers to develop their leadership skills, get on-the-job experience and mentorship, as well as receive career guidance and wellness support.
How YLF Works
CTAOP provides funding to a CTAOP Program Partner (a community-based organization) to host a YL Fellow for the year. The Fellow, aged 18-25, is embedded into the organization with a dedicated mentor for the duration of their Fellowship. The Fellow will pursue a short course of their choosing to enhance their skills and follow their passions.
What does YLF Include?
Personal Growth Plan
Professional Experience
Course on Employment & Leadership
Mental Health Support
Career Guidance
Leadership Development
“I am interested in community work because I was able to experience kindness and humanity from people who didn’t expect anything from me and
I am who I am because of them.”
~ CTAOP YL Fellow
2024 Youth Leaders Mpumalanga Summit. Photo by Shen Scott