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Junior City Council

<div class="ExternalClassE7E5CA658D3F4A678D6ABCFC7CA6E9B7"><p>The Junior City Council (JCC) is an initiative run by the City, which aims to raise the next generation of ethical leaders through practical exposure to local government. It gives Grade 10 and 11 learners the opportunity to engage with civic issues, lead community projects, and contribute ideas that strengthen their communities. Through this programme, members develop integrity, accountability, and a genuine commitment to public service.</p></div> <span> <div class="notification with-heading dark-copy pink bg-light-grey"><div class="graphic with-border"> <i class="info note"></i> </div><div class="desc"><h4>Please note</h4><p> Applications are open from 20 October - 21 November 2025.</p></div></div></span>

<h2 class="sectHeading">What is the Junior City Council?</h2><p>The Junior City Council (JCC) is a distinguished, apolitical programme run by the City that develops young leaders with a strong sense of civic duty and community service. It offers a selective platform for motivated youth to learn how local government works, gain leadership experience, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Through this programme, Junior Councillors grow as ambassadors for Cape Town, building the skills and values needed for future leadership.</p><p>Through structured training and leadership opportunities, Junior Councillors gain practical experience in governance, communication, and teamwork while serving as ambassadors for Cape Town and leading projects that create real community impact. <br></p><h2 class="sectHeading">Selection criteria </h2><h4> Please read the following information carefully.</h4><p>The Junior City Council's (JCC) rigorous selection process is designed to assess each applicant's leadership potential and alignment with our civic programme. </p><p>Our approach is thorough and multifaceted, evaluating key qualities such as:</p><ul><li>personal responsibility, </li><li>interdependence, </li><li>courage, </li><li>resilience, and </li><li>intellectual readiness. </li></ul><p> Recognising that diversity is vital to a vibrant and dynamic community, we are committed to selecting learners who embody a broad spectrum of cultures, faiths, and perspectives from across the City of Cape Town. </p><p>Each applicant is thoughtfully evaluated on an individual basis, with the initial screening based solely on age and grade criteria, ensuring an inclusive and merit-based entry into the programme. </p><h4>There are three phases in the application process:</h4><ul><li> <strong>Phase 1: </strong>Learners must complete and submit the online application form (link below)<strong>. </strong>Each applicant is then screened by the selection panel to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria. Applicants must be in Grade 9 or 10 at the time of applying to serve as a member of the JCC the following year. For example, if you are applying to serve on the JCC in 2026, you must be in Grade 9 or 10 in 2025. Once you progress to Grade 10 or 11 in 2026, you may serve as a member of the JCC.</li><li> <strong>Phase 2: </strong>Once learners have progressed to phase two, they will be invited to complete a 2-hour online test. The test consists of thirteen multiple-choice questions and two essay questions. You do not have to prepare any material for the test. Learners have to score 80% on the test to progress to the last phase. </li><li> <strong>Phase 3: </strong>The last phase of the selection process is an in-person interview. Applicants will need to prepare a 3 min speech. We will send all interviewees the topic for their speech via email. The interview is conducted at the Cape Town Civic Centre at 12 Hertzog Boulevard, and the panel consist of five members. Applicants have to score above 80% to be selected for the top 50. </li></ul> <span> <div class="notification with-heading dark-copy pink bg-light-grey"><div class="graphic with-border"> <i class="info note"></i> </div><div class="desc"><h4>Please note</h4><p> Only 50 learners are selected to become Junior Councillors.<br></p></div></div></span> <h2 class="sectHeading">How to get involved<br></h2><p>Grade 9 and 10 learners in Cape Town are invited to apply to serve a one-year term on the Junior City Council. This voluntary role offers young people the chance to learn how local government works, participate in civic activities, and develop leadership and teamwork skills. </p><p> Applicants should ensure they are available to commit to at least two Saturdays per month to gain the full benefit of this practical and rewarding experience. </p><h4>The programme offers Grade 10 and 11 learners the opportunity to:<br></h4><ul><li>Develop a deep understanding of civic responsibility and ethical leadership. </li><li>Gain first-hand experience in how local government operates and makes decisions. </li><li>Strengthen communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. </li><li>Engage in structured leadership training that builds confidence and professionalism. </li><li>Represent Cape Town as well-rounded young leaders, prepared for future public service. </li></ul><p> <a href="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/documentcentre/Documents/Procedures%2c%20guidelines%20and%20regulations/JCCCodeofConduct.pdf" target="_blank">Read the JCC Code of Conduct</a>.<br></p> <span> <h2 class="sectHeading">How to apply</h2></span> <p> <a href="https://www.research.net/r/DTGJP8C" target="_blank">Complete the online application form<i class="icon link-external"></i></a>.</p><h4>Please bring the following required documents to your interview:</h4><ul><li>Copy of your ID/passport </li><li> Proof of address from your Ward Councillor </li></ul><p> <strong>Applications close on 21 November 2025</strong>.</p><h2 class="sectHeading">Junior Councillor Project (Leadership Project)</h2><p>As part of your duties as a Junior Councillor, you will plan, implement, and complete a community-based project. This project may include initiatives such as awareness campaigns, skills workshops, or social support drives. Its purpose is to help you apply what you learn about leadership, teamwork, and local governance in a real community context. </p><h4> Through this process, you will learn how to: </h4><ul><li>identify needs, </li><li>plan responsibly, </li><li>manage resources, and </li><li>measure impact. </li></ul><p>At the end of the term, you will present your project outcomes to a panel of judges, demonstrating your growth as an ethical and active citizen. </p> <span> <h2 class="sectHeading">FAQs</h2></span> <p> <strong>What is the Junior City Council (JCC)? </strong><br>The JCC is an initiative run by the City of Cape Town to develop young leaders who understand how local government works. It gives learners practical experience in civic leadership, public participation, and community engagement. </p><p> <strong>Who can apply for the JCC? </strong><br>Grade 9 and 10 learners who live in Cape Town can apply to serve on the following year’s Junior City Council, during which they will be in Grade 10 or 11.</p><p> <strong>How much of my time will the JCC take?</strong><br>Members are required to attend at least two Saturdays a month for meetings, training sessions, and City events. Some additional time may be needed for project work or special engagements. Sittings are normally from 08:30 - 13:00. You will also be required to focus on your leadership project, which will take additional time out of your schedule. </p><p> <strong>How long is the JCC term?</strong><br>The programme runs for one calendar year. Junior Councillors serve from their official induction and graduate at the end of their term.</p><p> <strong>Can I apply if I am in grade 9?</strong><br>No. The programme is only open to grade 10 and 11 learners. </p><p> <strong>Will I learn about party politics in the programme?</strong><br>No. The JCC is completely apolitical. The programme focuses on civic education, ethics, and leadership within the framework of local government, not political parties or campaigning.</p><p> <strong>Will I be paid as a Junior Councillor?</strong><br>No. The JCC is a voluntary programme focused on leadership development and civic education, not financial reward.</p><p> <strong>Do I have to be the Head boy or Head girl to be on the JCC?</strong><br>No. You do not need to hold any formal leadership position at school. The JCC looks for motivated learners with leadership potential, community interest, and a willingness to learn.<br></p><p> <strong>Does the City provide transport? <br></strong>No. Learners are responsible for arranging their own transport to and from meetings or events. However, where possible, the City provides transport for any events or engagements that does not happen at the Civic Centre. </p><p> <strong>Does the City host a camp? </strong> <br>Yes. The JCC hosts an annual budget camp where Junior Councillors learn about the City’s budget, the IDP, teamwork and communication in an interactive environment. </p><p> <strong>What type of projects do Junior Councillors run? </strong> <br>Projects can include community workshops, awareness campaigns, environmental drives, or education initiatives. Each project allows members to apply civic principles and leadership skills in practice. </p><p> <strong>How are learners selected? </strong> <br>Applications are reviewed by a selection panel based on merit, motivation, and leadership potential. Shortlisted applicants may be interviewed before final selection. </p><p> <strong>What skills will I gain as a member of the JCC? </strong> <br>You will develop skills in leadership, public speaking, teamwork, project management, and problem-solving. You will also gain confidence in engaging with civic and community leaders. </p><p> <strong>How do I apply? </strong> <br>Learners complete an online application form during the open application period, which is announced on the City’s website and social media pages. </p><p> <strong>Why should I join the JCC? </strong> <br>The JCC helps you grow as an ethical leader, active citizen, and community role model. It gives you knowledge, experience, and networks that will benefit you throughout your personal and professional life. </p><h2 class="sectHeading">Contact us<br></h2><h4> <a href="https://web1.capetown.gov.za/web1/councilhubonline/councillorprofile?councillorid=1070" target="_blank">Councillor Donovan Nelson (JCC Custodian)</a> </h4><p> <em>Email: <br><a href="mailto:Junior.CityCouncil@capetown.gov.za">Junior.CityCouncil@capetown.gov.za</a></em></p>

Learn about the Cape Town Junior City Council, including how to get involved and the executive committee.

Junior City Council Code of Conduct

185048

2023-11-30T22:00:00Z