Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the experiences gained by participants of youth leadership development (YLD) programs that introduce multi-stakeholder processes as part of its training within the last five years. Moreover, the study delves into how participants are able to apply leadership and multi-stakeholder processes in their everyday lives and in their communities.
Design/methodology/approach
A perception survey of 41 respondents was conducted to examine leadership concepts identified and youth leadership practices in different social reform contexts.
Findings
Diverse challenges in terms of multi-stakeholder mobilization were evident in youth leaders’ engagement in communities. In spite of this, the YLD programs’ emphasis on multi-stakeholder process is very much embedded in the current youth leaders’ practice.
Research limitations/implications
The study contributes to the conduct of YLD programs, as well as on stakeholder engagement. Moreover, it contributes to advancing public leadership theory and practice by demonstrating how it extends to youth leadership experiences.
Practical implications
Multiple dimensions of YLD, especially in the realm of multi-stakeholder engagement, are discussed that may contribute to YLD programs.
Originality/value
To the best of knowledge, the authors provide the first study that investigates the contribution of the Bridging Leadership Framework that utilizes a multi-stakeholder approach in a YLD program using empirical data.
Heritage trails through Dolenjska and Bela Krajina in Slovenia: A multi-stakeholder approach to tourism development
