SoNg`S LyriC and my life

Youth Leadership Academy – Malaysia

Due to overwhelming interest, our application deadline has now been extended to April 11!

Be inspired by and learn from Malaysia's most successful corporate leaders and young professionals. If you are a first- or second-year undergraduate student at a university in Malaysia, with the energy and passion to become a future leader of Malaysia, read on.

1. What is the Youth Leadership Academy?
2. When and where is the Youth Leadership Academy?
3. Do you qualify? For whom is the programme intended?
4. How do you sign up?
5. Other frequently asked questions

A. What is the Youth Leadership Academy?

The Youth Leadership Academy is dedicated to nurturing and building capabilities of future young leaders. As a participant, you will have the opportunity to improve your leadership skills and form mentoring relationships with young professionals and senior business leaders. The programme consists of:

* Two structured full-day workshops led by faculty from McKinsey & Company as well as eminent corporate and community leaders, with proprietary curriculum addressing three themes: leading self, leading others, and leading Malaysia
* One-on-one coaching sessions
* Access to mentors who are young professionals and successful leaders of Malaysian companies and will guide you along your journey of self-discovery

YLA applies leadership lessons to actual individual leadership opportunities in academic, extra-curricular, or other personal activities.

This programme is about developing the next generation of Malaysian leaders and is powered by McKinsey & Company. As one of the world's leading management consulting firms, McKinsey is a trusted adviser to leaders of companies, governments, and institutions in 45 countries. McKinsey is at the centre of the world's most influential global leadership network and is a firm that develops distinctive leaders. We were ranked in the top ten in Fortune magazine's Global Top Companies for Leaders in 2007, and many of our alumni are influential business leaders, representing virtually every business sector in more than 100 countries.

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B. When and where is the Youth Leadership Academy?

The Youth Leadership Academy is an annual programme over a period of four months from May to August 2009. It comprises two structured full-day workshops on 30 May and 4 July 2009, which will be held in Kuala Lumpur, as well as regular interactions and coaching sessions between mentors and other participants.

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C. Do you qualify? For whom is the programme intended?

Have you always dreamed of becoming a leader who inspires others and drives change? Have you held significant leadership roles before, whether in an existing organisation or at an endeavour of your own making? Do you passionately believe in making a difference in Malaysia? If so, this programme could be for you!

YLA is a diverse and select group of 20 of the most talented and driven Malaysian undergraduate students in their first or second year of studies at a university in Malaysia. We are looking for candidates who have demonstrated strong leadership potential, personal drive, and a passion and energy for making a difference in our community and country. In addition, applicants will need to be strong problem solvers and distinctive communicators with an impressive academic track record.

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D. How do you sign up?

Signing up requires three simple steps:

1. Download the two-page application form here:
Youth Leadership Academy Malaysia 2009 Application Form
2. Complete this simple application form including a short essay describing your personal details and achievements.
3. Send your completed application to YLA_Malaysia@mckinsey.com by Saturday, 11 April 2009.

If you are among the finalists for the programme, you will be invited for a short interview (either in person or by phone) before the first workshop on 30 May.

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E. Other frequently asked questions

1. Is this programme only for those interested in the corporate sector?

Not at all. While our many of our mentors are from the corporate sector, they are also deeply involved in leadership roles in their community. The YLA programme aims to develop future leaders of Malaysia across all fields in the corporate, public and social sectors.

We recognise that there are many ways to create positive change and are committed to helping you work toward achieving your leadership vision, whatever that may be.

2. Are there minimum academic criteria I need to meet?

There are no minimum academic criteria per se. YLA participants will be selected based on a combination of their personal achievements, leadership experiences and communication skills, in addition to their academic track record.

3. What are some tips for writing a good essay?

Through the essays, we seek to understand you better as a person and discover your leadership potential. Be honest and use the essay as a way to tell us about you. Also, make sure to check for spelling and grammatical errors.

4. How much time am I expected to devote to the programme?

This programme comprises two one-day workshops, coaching sessions and a few short conversations between you and your mentor. Most activities will occur between late May and late August.

5. What is the fee for the programme?

The YLA programme is free of charge. In addition, McKinsey will reimburse travel and accommodation expenses for participants located outside of Kuala Lumpur.

6. Can I obtain copies of the programme brochure?

Sure. Just download it from the following link:
YLA programme brochure (PDF - 471KB)

7. Whom do I contact if I have any additional questions?

If you have any further questions about this event, please send an e-mail to YLA_Malaysia@mckinsey.com