New Life Chapel youth pastor Lendel Bakes participated in the six-month program last year.

She said it gave her the skills she needed for a leadership role.

“I got into it because I was already in a leadership role,” Mrs Bakes said.

“Working for a not-for-profit, there weren’t heaps of training and opportunities like this and I thought I could get a lot out of it.

“You are  exposed to state leaders and literally given this chance at no cost, it was a complete blessing.

“It really inspired me hearing other peoples’ leadership journeys and where they ended up by keeping an open mind.”

Wodonga Council has run a free Youth Leadership Program for eight years for 18 to 24 year-olds. 

Among its graduates are Indi Labor candidate Eric Kerr, Wodonga’s 2014 young citizen of the year Samantha Treffers and Albury volunteer of the year Megan Pearce.

Program applications are now open for people who live, work or study in Wodonga.

Participants will hear from guest speakers and take part in workshops focusing on decision-making, conflict resolution, communication and networking.

All events take place outside standard working hours and most costs are covered by Wodonga Council.

Caitlyn Seawright, who also participated last year, said the program was life-changing.

“It helped me get my current job with a local law firm,” she said.

“They saw my communication skills at the interview, and were impressed that I’d done so much community work.”

Youth services officer Anthony Nicholson said the council was seeking about 15 people who could commit to bi-weekly meetings.

“Whether it’s your first time at university or a new job, this is the perfect way to look into, or even take-up, a leadership role,” he said.

Applications are open until 5pm, April 1 at wodonga.vic.gov.au/ylp.