About Us

Young Leaders Academy is a youth development and leadership organisation committed to preparing young people for purposeful leadership in education, business and society.

For over a decade, YLA has worked with schools, universities, community organisations and corporates to equip young people with values-driven leadership, strong communication skills and a love for learning.

Our Mission

To develop ethical, confident and future-ready leaders who serve their communities with excellence.

Our Vision

A generation of young people equipped to lead with wisdom, integrity and courage.

Our Leadership

Advocate Mahomed Vahed

Founder & Managing Director

Adv. Mahomed Vahed brings over three decades of experience in law, academia, banking and leadership development. A former Magistrate, Advocate, university lecturer and banking executive, he has dedicated his life to empowering young people through education, communication and values-based leadership.

He is the author of 11 books (three on public speaking), a certified trainer of international leadership programmes, and a recognised literacy ambassador who has inspired thousands of learners across South Africa.

Advocate Mahomed Vahed

Founder & Managing Director

Tel: 031 208 2552

Mobile: 083 640 9054

Email: info@youngleadersacademy.co.za

mahomed@youngleadersacademy.co.za

Key Achievements

  • 1.In 2017, appointed a Literacy Ambassador by the Department of Basic Education
  • 2.Has a partnership with the Department of Education to roll out leadership and public speaking workshops at schools nationally
  • 3.In 2017 partnered with Tim Elmore's Growing Leaders in the US to offer the Habitudes Youth Development Programme in South Africa
  • 4.In 2025 partnered with Dr Rana Dajani's Taghyeer in Jordan to roll out the We Love Reading programme in South Africa
  • 5.Authored 11 books, 3 on public speaking
  • 6.Coordinated an Islamic Finance, Banking and Law course at tertiary institutions for over 20 years
  • 7.Developed and rolled out a Workplace Readiness Programme at universities and colleges