Young Captain

Young Captain 2026

For the Leaders of Tomorrow

Young Captain makes young leadership talent visible. Leaders who look further, go further, and take others along.

Young Talent. Leadership Focused on the Future.

The Young Captain Program, Young Captain Award, and Young Captain Network are initiatives of Young Captain Netherlands. We focus on young business leadership talent in the Netherlands with the potential to grow into the role of CEO. Leaders who are ambitious and future-oriented, with a clear vision, bridging business and societal impact, and how they can contribute to a better world.

A stage for ambitious young leaders

A network of 60 alumni

“Together, we develop leaders for a better future”

Dimitri de Vreeze

Consultant at Spencer Stuart

Young Captain Program

Empowering the Leaders of the Future

Participating in the Young Captain Program offers a unique opportunity for professional and personal enrichment and development. A two-day interactive knowledge and expertise program, delivered by the top of the Dutch business community and academia. You gain a broad perspective on societal and geopolitical issues and insight into the dynamics of the boardroom.

For leaders who stand out for courage and decisiveness

Increase your visibility as a future director

More about the program →

Bekijk de volledige video

Young Captain Award

Distinguish the Leaders of Tomorrow

The Young Captain Award recognizes leaders who think internationally and view leadership as a social responsibility. A jury of prominent executives is responsible for the selection of high-potential candidates.

Powerful boost to your personal development

Guest speaker, including at the annual KPMG conference

More about the award→

Kaya de Lange (CEO, BeFrank) is Young Captain 2025 and follows in the footsteps of an inspiring group of award-winning Young Captains.

“Zooming out and reflecting on leadership — that is what participating in the Young Captain Award asks of you. I see winning this wonderful award as encouragement to continue on my course, with a focus on connection, more courage, and impact.”

Kaya de Lange

Meet all the Young Captains and finalists →

The Network

Connecting the Leaders of Today and Tomorrow

All winners and finalists together form the Young Captain Network:
a close-knit collective of leaders who strengthen, challenge, and inspire each other.