CFAs: Adenauer Young Leaders Program (Philippines)

The Philippines is considered one of the world’s youngest countries. Almost 30 percent of the Philippine population is comprised of Filipino youth, who have emerged as a powerful force in shaping the nation. Young Filipinos are bearers of traditions, customs, and cultural heritage and will eventually assume the responsibilities of the future generation. Therefore, it is crucial to capacitate young Filipinos with the necessary skills to effect political, economic, social, and cultural reforms and developments.

As one of the major thrusts of the foundation in the country, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Philippines offers AYLP as its newest leadership program. AYLP is not just a crash course but a transformative journey for young individuals from different backgrounds and sectors. The program will help the most promising individuals unlock their leadership potential, preparing them to take on more prominent roles in their organizations, communities, and groups. AYLP underscores leadership development and education in politics, economics, and international relations, highlighted by immersions/learning visits. This program is fully funded and managed by the KAS Philippines.

Program Objectives 

• The program aims to:
  • Prepare young individuals to become responsible models of citizenship and holistic and effective leaders in their organizations, communities, and groups by capacitating them through lectures, discussions, workshops, fora, and immersion/learning visits.
  • Offer mentoring opportunities to promising individuals who have the potential to become impactful leaders. Individuals from marginalized sectors/minorities who have less access to such leadership programs due to economic, geographical, and other reasons will be prioritized.
  • Building mutual respect and understanding among various groups, whether differentiated culturally, ethnically, religiously and the like, through shared democratic values.

Funding Information

• KAS Philippines will grant a fund of PHP 100,000.00 to the winning democracy project.

Program Format 

• The program covers topics and themes grouped into three modules as follows:
  • First Module
    • Leadership 1: KAS Call to Lead
    • Development and Management of Projects
    • Coaching Session
  • Second Module
    • Leadership 2: Becoming a Bridging Leader
    • Specialized Thematic Sessions
    • Mentoring Sessions
  • Third Module
    • Leadership 3: Co-Creating for Impact
    • Development and Management of Projects
    • Coaching Session

Eligibility Criteria

• The program will accept sixteen (16) participants this year. While KAS partner organizations and political parties’ nominees will be prioritized, they also welcome applications from other organizations or self-nominations. They believe in the power of diversity and inclusion, and being nominated by a KAS partner organization does not guarantee acceptance into the program. Every application will be carefully considered, and they look forward to hearing from you. Below are the general criteria for the application:
  • Filipino citizen;
  • Between the ages of 25-35 upon date of application;
  • Applicants must be fully vaccinated (at least two shots) against COVID-19;
  • Individuals looking to take on more senior roles in governance, development organizations, or local communities.
  • Individuals from KAS Philippines partner organizations and young members of political parties are highly encouraged to submit applications;
  • Fluent/native speaker and writer of English and Filipino;
  • Individuals with demonstrated leadership skills; and
  • Individuals committed to the values of freedom, justice, and solidarity.
• The program intends to receive applications from the following sectors:
  • Newly-elected leaders in government—priority will be given to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas or those coming from lower-income class local government units;
  • Bangsamoro officials, especially those in the areas with a statutory minimum wage;
  • Muslim leaders from Mindanao
  • Student leaders from youth associations
  • Employees from Parliament (Senate, House of Representatives)
  • Journalists (traditional and non-traditional media)
  • Workers and members of non-government organizations
  • Employees from the business sector
  • Indigenous peoples
  • Individuals from the Church
  • Members of political parties

For more information, visit Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung.