Youth Leaders programme
The leadership programme for former Hobby Lobby participants is based on three pillars: learning social skills, taking responsibility, and being a role model.
How the Youth Leaders programme works
Since autumn 2021, former course participants aged 13 to 17 have had the opportunity to pass on what they’ve learned to younger participants as co-instructors in our leadership programme. Motivated young people take on responsibility and further develop their personal and social skills for their future careers. They experience social participation and see themselves as valuable members of society through their voluntary engagement. In addition, they expand their network and gain access to opportunities that were previously out of reach.
Throughout the one-year program, Youth Leaders are closely supported through collaboration with course instructors, as well as through mentoring and workshops. More than 150 Youth Leaders have already successfully completed the programme.
Hobby Lobby really means a lot to me! I can continue to grow here — my personality, my communication skills, and my ability to work in a team. I’ll need all of that in life!
Impact areas
Social and communication skills
By co-leading leisure courses, Youth Leaders grow into their roles and learn to take responsibility. They strengthen their teamwork skills, practice responding to different needs, and develop a keen sense for cooperation. Communication with children, teens, and adults fosters their intrinsic motivation, self-confidence, and lasting communication skills that go far beyond the course setting.
Mental health and psychosocial well-being
Through active participation and co-creation of the course programme, Youth Leaders experience self-efficacy and appreciation. Sharing responsibility as co-instructors strengthens satisfaction, self-confidence, and the sense of making a difference. Workshops provide space for exchange, empowerment, and personal growth. The Youth Leaders programme thus contributes to participants’ well-being, resilience, and psychosocial health.
Leadership and networking skills
As co-instructors, Youth Leaders take on responsibility and develop important leadership skills. In working with younger children and teens, they encounter diverse situations and challenges, learning to handle conflicts sensitively, find creative solutions, and deal constructively with setbacks. These experiences strengthen their frustration tolerance and build confidence in facing challenges. In this way, they naturally demonstrate tolerance and a sense of responsibility.
Personal growth and potential development
Through their role as co-instructors, Youth Leaders discover new sides of themselves and channel their creativity in meaningful ways. They realise that their ideas are valuable and make an impact — an important motivator for developing their potential step by step. These positive experiences boost self-confidence and influence other areas of life: many become more motivated at school, participate more actively, and approach tasks with greater optimism.
Key points
What to expect
As a Youth Leader, you support course instructors and gradually take on more responsibility in your course. You set your own goals and pass on what you’ve learned to younger Hobby Lobby participants. The programme lasts one year and includes workshops, coaching sessions, and get-togethers with other Youth Leaders.
What we offer
At Hobby Lobby, you’ll find a safe space where you can grow beyond yourself. We support you with exciting workshops, such as Teaching Tips & Tricks, Personality Training, and Communication & Conflict Resolution. In several coaching sessions, you’ll discuss topics like Planning Your Career Path: What Are My Next Steps? or Writing a CV Together. You’ll also receive €50 compensation after each course period as well as a certificate.
About you
Most importantly, you bring passion for the Hobby Lobby course you previously attended. You should be available and committed for 10–12 course sessions, 6 workshops, and team events during a course period.
Next steps
Apply to become a Youth Leader by filling out the form and telling us what motivates you to join the programme. Applications close at the end of August each year.
CEO Lower Austria, Project Manager Youth Leaders Programme