Do you have ideas for making Cape Town a better city? Are you passionate about your community, interested in leadership, or simply curious about how your city works? The City of Cape Town is calling on the youth to step forward, speak up and be part of something exciting! Applications for the 2027 Junior City Council (JCC) open on 1 November 2026. 

The Junior City Council is not just about sitting in meetings and learning how government works. It's about finding your voice, challenging yourself, meeting young people from across Cape Town and discovering just how much of a difference you can make.

Each year, 50 young Capetonians from different schools, communities and backgrounds come together for a year-long journey of leadership, learning and hands-on experience.
From stepping inside Council Chambers and debating real issues facing the city, to getting out into communities, meeting City officials, developing projects and discovering what happens behind the scenes of local government, the JCC offers experiences that few young people get to enjoy.

Along the way, Junior Councillors develop valuable skills in public speaking, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving and community engagement. They also build friendships with young people they might otherwise never have met.

Councillor Nicola Jowell, who co-leads the Junior City Council programme, said the experience is as much about personal growth as it is about understanding local government.

'One of the most rewarding parts of the JCC is watching these young people grow in confidence throughout the year. Some arrive feeling nervous about speaking in front of others, and by the end of the programme they are standing up, sharing ideas, asking difficult questions and taking on leadership roles.

'We don't expect applicants to arrive knowing anything about local government. What we are looking for is enthusiasm, curiosity, commitment and a willingness to get involved. You don't have to be the loudest person in the room or the top achiever at your school. You just need to be willing to give it a go.'

Councillor Nicole Sukers who co-leads the programme, said one of its greatest strengths is bringing young people from across the city together. 

'The JCC brings together learners from different backgrounds and cultures, but who quickly discover commonality. They learn to listen to different perspectives, work together and understand the challenges and opportunities facing communities beyond their own. 

'It's an opportunity to make new friends, learn new skills, have some fun and be part of something that not only builds oneself but that evokes a vision to create change, whether small or big.'

The programme includes interactive workshops, visits to City facilities, engagement with City leaders, a community project, volunteering opportunities, and team-building activities. Junior Councillors also elect their own Junior Mayor and other office bearers, giving them first-hand experience of democratic processes and leadership.

Who can apply?

• Applications are open to learners who will be in Grade 10 or Grade 11 in 2027 and who live in Cape Town.
• Applicants must be able to commit to the year-long programme, with activities generally taking place on Saturdays during the school year. Attendance and active participation are important parts of the experience.
• No previous leadership experience is required.

Applications open: 1 November 2026
Applications close: 30 November 2026
Apply online

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview as part of the selection process.

If you've ever wondered what happens beyond the council chambers, have ideas for improving your community, or simply want to challenge yourself and try something new, this could be your opportunity.

Cape Town's next generation of leaders, thinkers and changemakers - we're looking for you!