Future Leaders Challenge equips learners with tools to transform communities
Learners who took part in the AECI Future Leaders Challenge are pictured here during the implementation phase, which took place in cinemas and in schools.
Image: Supplied
As South Africa marks 31 years of democracy, a new initiative is harnessing the country’s youthful energy to shape the nation’s future. The AECI Future Leaders Challenge, launched in partnership with Primestars and The YouthStart Foundation, equips high school learners with the tools, values, and confidence to become change-makers in their communities.
Speaking on the programme, Kavita Pema, AECI group vice president of sustainability, ESG and HSE, said: “South Africa celebrates 31 years of democracy, we stand at a powerful inflection point, a moment to honour our progress while embracing the tremendous potential that lies ahead. The true strength of our nation has always been our people, particularly our youth who bring fresh perspectives, innovative thinking, and boundless energy to our collective challenges.”
The programme, which launched on March 7, 2025 with the premiere of Future Leaders, a 75-minute edutainment film produced by Coal Stove Pictures, combines cinema screenings, school activations, a practical workbook, and a digital platform.
More than 300 entries have been received from learners nationwide, introducing them to 12 globally recognised leadership principles, from emotional intelligence to integrity.
Pema added: “South Africa is blessed with exceptional young talent, bright, resilient, and determined individuals eager to contribute meaningfully to society. What they need now are the platforms, resources and mentorship to channel their natural leadership abilities toward positive change.”
Kavita Pema, AECI group vice president of sustainability, ESG and HSE, champions the Future Leaders Challenge, empowering South Africa’s youth to become change-makers in their communities.
Image: Supplied
Learners then apply the lessons by designing and implementing community projects addressing local challenges. Top teams will advance to an intensive leadership experience in Johannesburg and a national awards ceremony, with opportunities for bursaries and seed funding to further develop their initiatives.
“This isn’t merely youth development, it’s youth empowerment at its finest. The challenge embodies a vision of leadership that transcends titles and positions. It celebrates leadership as a daily commitment to service, integrity, and positive impact, qualities our nation continues to value and nurture,” Pema said.
She added a call to action for corporate South Africa: “We’re privileged to champion this initiative, but we also extend an invitation to corporate South Africa to join us. Together, we can scale this proven model and create an unstoppable movement of ethical leadership development across our beautiful country.”
Pema concluded: “Our youth represent not only 70% of our population but 100% of our potential. By investing in their leadership capabilities today, we secure a more prosperous, equitable, and innovative South Africa tomorrow. In the immortal words of Nelson Mandela: ‘It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.’ The future is bright. The future is them. And that future begins now.”