April 2026 - IAHV South Africa

Youth Leadership Training Programme (YLTP) – Ocean View, Cape Town

Last week, a powerful Youth Leadership Training Programme (YLTP) unfolded in Ocean View, Cape Town — bringing together 25 young leaders and changemakers for a deeply transformative experience.

This impactful programme was delivered in partnership with IAHV and Count of Eight Entertainment, with a shared vision: to empower youth with the tools, confidence, and purpose to uplift their communities.

A Programme Rooted in Purpose

The YLTP is a globally recognised initiative by IAHV, designed to channel youth energy into nation-building, leadership, and service.

In Ocean View, the programme focused on three core pillars:

Personal Development

Building self-awareness, emotional resilience, and inner strength
Work Enablement & Skills Development

Equipping participants with practical tools for employability and leadership
Paying It Forward

Inspiring participants to give back and uplift their own communities

From Learning to Leadership in Action

What makes this programme truly powerful is what happens next.

All 25 participants successfully graduated — and are now stepping into leadership roles within their own community.

As part of their commitment, they will be:

✨ Facilitating stress relief and trauma release workshops

✨ Sharing practical tools for emotional wellbeing

✨ Creating positive ripple effects within Ocean View

This transition from participant to community leader is at the heart of YLTP’s long-term impact.

A Holistic & Experiential Journey

Throughout the programme, participants engaged in a dynamic and interactive learning experience that included:

Leadership development and communication skills
Teamwork and collaboration
Exposure to industry insights and real-world perspectives
Movement-based practices such as Capoeira, encouraging expression, confidence, and connection
Practical tools for managing stress and trauma

The programme created a safe and empowering space for young people to grow — both individually and collectively.

Community at the Heart

This YLTP is a powerful reminder that real change happens within communities.

It brought together facilitators, mentors, and local leaders — all united by a shared intention to uplift and empower youth in Ocean View.

And most importantly, it highlighted the incredible potential of young people when they are given the right tools, guidance, and support.

Building the Future, One Leader at a Time

The Ocean View YLTP is more than a training programme — it is a movement of transformation.

By nurturing resilience, leadership, and a spirit of service, IAHV continues to support the development of young leaders who are ready to create meaningful, lasting change.

Because as the saying goes:

“It takes a village.”

IAHV South Africa x Artscape Youth Leadership Training Programme (YLTP)

From 9–15 March 2026, a powerful collaboration between Artscape and IAHV brought together young people from across Cape Town for a deeply transformative Youth Leadership Training Programme (YLTP).

This 7-day immersive experience was designed to equip youth with the inner resilience, practical skills, and leadership mindset needed to thrive — not only personally, but within their communities.

A Collaboration for Impact

Initiated by Artscape, this programme focused on empowering youth within local communities, particularly those with limited access to opportunities. Together with IAHV, the shared vision was clear:

Build stress and mind management tools
Develop authentic leadership skills
Encourage community outreach and service
Strengthen work-readiness and employability

Hosted at Artscape (Room 207), the venue sponsorship created a safe, inspiring environment for deep learning and connection.

A Powerful 7-Day Journey

Running daily from 08h00 to 17h30 (including the weekend), the programme delivered an intensive 63 hours of skills development.

The journey unfolded as follows:

Days 1–3: Stress management & self-development
Days 4–5: Mind mastery & mindfulness practices
Day 6: Leadership in action & community outreach
Day 7: Graduation, reflections, guest engagement, and commitment to 11-month follow-up support

Facilitated by Sharmaine Naidoo and Marguerite Holtzhausen, the programme combined practical tools, experiential learning, and deep inner work.

The programme was further supported by 7 YLTP graduates and 2 IAHV volunteers, creating a strong peer-led and supportive learning environment.

From 250 Applications to 27 Graduates

Interest in the programme was overwhelming, with over 250 applications received.

40 applicants were invited to a meet-and-greet
27 participants committed to and completed the full programme

Participants were sourced through Artscape, alumni networks, and community connections across Cape Town — ensuring a diverse and dynamic group of young leaders.

Real Voices, Real Transformation

The true impact of YLTP is best captured through the voices of its participants:

“My experience was absolutely transformative. I adored the facilitators and the other participants. I’ve learnt the importance of breath and how to control my anxiety. I truly appreciate the opportunity of learning in such a beautiful setting with beautiful people.”

– Rushile

“This program taught me that leadership begins with changing yourself and serving others. Coming from a small town in the Karoo where opportunities are limited, I realised that one person with courage and compassion can inspire real change.”

– Elreza

“The YLTP helped me control my emotions and understand why breathing is so important. I feel lighter than before. It also taught me commitment. I learnt powerful breathing techniques like SKY and Power Breath.”