- The City of Cape Town has opened applications for the 2025 Junior City Council (JCC) programme, inviting Grade 10 and 11 learners to develop leadership skills and represent Cape Town’s youth.
- The programme is now more inclusive, with no academic, gender, or race barriers to entry.
- Participants will gain insights into the City’s Municipal Budget and Integrated Development Plan, with a focus on civic engagement and leadership skills.
The City of Cape Town has opened applications for the 2025 Junior City Council (JCC) programme, providing Grade 10 and 11 learners with a platform to develop leadership skills and represent Cape Town’s youth in local governance.
The programme, described by ward councillor Donovan Nelson as “an essential platform for empowering Cape Town’s youth”, is open to learners from all backgrounds and has implemented changes to ensure broader inclusivity. Nelson, who serves as Custodian of the Junior City Council and represents Ward 65 Grassy Park, emphasised: “The City is working with ward councillors and local newspapers like People’s Post to encourage applications from underrepresented areas. This ensures that opportunities like these reach learners in every corner of Cape Town.”
This year, the City has removed nomination requirements from schools, allowing learners to apply directly with parental consent. “Importantly, there are no academic, gender, or race barriers to entry,” he noted. “This open approach eliminates obstacles and creates a programme accessible to all.”
The JCC focuses on equipping participants with leadership, public speaking, and project management skills. For the next year term, a key focus will be on helping participants understand the City’s Municipal Budget and Integrated Development Plan (IDP). The aim is to empower young people with insights into resource allocation and its impact on Cape Town’s development.
The programme has a track record of nurturing successful leaders. Previous Junior Councillor Isabella Dawood, from the 2022 cohort, now serves as a Child Rights Advisor to the Western Cape Commissioner for Children and has represented South Africa at a United Nations session. Another alumnus, Khonaye Gcaza, was recently recognised with the prestigious SANParks Kudu Award for contributions to youth conservation.
Participants will be assessed through surveys that measure civic engagement, emotional intelligence, and awareness of current affairs. Monthly one on one sessions with group coaches will ensure tailored support for each Junior Councillor’s growth.
Applications close on Tuesday 31 December this year, with interviews scheduled from 27 to 31 January next year. Interested students can find more information and apply online through the City of Cape Town’s official website.
“This is not just an opportunity to lead; it’s an opportunity to learn and make a tangible impact,” Nelson added.
