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As a first-generation student with two degrees, I've always been a dream chaser. This program gave me the wings to take flight to pursue my professional goals.

– Ronin

Hero Splash

As a first-generation student with two degrees, I've always been a dream chaser. This program gave me the wings to take flight to pursue my professional goals.

– Ronin

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The Dell Young Leaders program is more than a scholarship. We equip students to succeed at university, build meaningful careers, and create better futures for those around them. Our support includes:

Academic

Personalized coaching, guidance, and academic support to help students stay on track and reach graduation.

Wellness

Resources that strengthen confidence, balance, and mental resilience for university life and beyond.

Financial

Flexible support for tuition, housing, and other essentials, so you can focus on learning and reaching your goals.

Career

Hands-on training, personal mentorship, and connections to top employers looking for high-performing graduates.

Learn from your experiences what you enjoy and put your hands up for projects that will help you develop new skills. 

Noloyiso
Class of 2018

Learn from your experiences what you enjoy and put your hands up for projects that will help you develop new skills. 

Class of 2018

From Aspiration to Success

Dell Young Leaders are earning degrees across Africa and driving change in their communities through meaningful careers. Their stories show how support leads to long-term success.

Your Career. Your Community.

Dell Young Leaders across Africa are building careers and staying connected through a growing alumni community – with continued access to the program’s career advisers and hiring partners.

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Dell Young Leaders connects top employers in South Africa and Kenya to partner university graduates who combine academic strength, resilience, and real-world preparation. Selected for their drive and trained for impact, they’re equipped to contribute and grow.

Hire with Confidence

We connect you with job-ready graduates who strengthen your talent pipeline and contribute from day one.

Partner with Purpose

These young professionals bring determination, follow-through, and a strong commitment to long-term career growth.

Champion Emerging Talent

Provide mentorship, vacation work, or job shadowing that offers real experience and connects your team with top talent early.

Frequently Asked Questions Block

Each year, qualifying first year financial aid students are invited to apply to the Dell Young Leaders programme. Invites will be sent during the second term from the university’s financial aid office and directly from the programme via email. Applications from students outside of those individuals invited to apply, are not accepted at this time.

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To be invited to apply for the Dell Young Leaders programme, you must be:

  • South African citizen (or permanent resident)
  • In your first year of study working toward a professional or in-demand degree focused on STEM subjects
  • Eligible for financial aid based on the NSFAS means test

Candidates who receive an invitation will then be asked to complete an online application and participate in an interview. This helps us understand your aspirations, university and career goals so we can best determine if you are a fit for the programme.

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Dell Young Leaders works on a top-up model to NSFAS. As such, your funding through NSFAS will not be impacted in any way and the programme will also work with you to manage your cost of attendance at university.  

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From Rural Roots to Global Consulting

Early career planning and exposure helped Vincent launch a consulting career that now includes advising Fortune 500 companies.

Vincent’s Story
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Vincent

Class of 2016

Advancing MRI Access Across Africa

Karabo is a diagnostic radiographer specializing in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), using her skills to improve imaging access and shape the future of health care across Africa.

Karabo’s Story
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Karabo

Class of 2019

Leading with Data, Giving Back Through Mentorship

Thulani launched his career in finance and data, and now leads business intelligence at one of South Africa’s largest banks.

Thulani’s Story

Thulani

Class of 2018

Using Engineering Skills to Make Finance Work Better

Danaly is helping Old Mutual speed up withdrawals and strengthen customer communication, making financial services work better for more people.

Danaly’s Story
Danaly headshot

Danaly

Class of 2019

From Aspiration to Success

Dell Young Leaders are earning degrees across Africa and driving change in their communities through meaningful careers. Their stories show how support leads to long-term success.

The Right Support to Turn Your Ambitions Into Career Success

You’ve worked hard to get into university — and the Dell Young Leaders programme is here to help you go further. With tailored coaching, financial support, and career connections, we support your path to graduation and launching a meaningful career.

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