The purpose of this study was twofold. First, it sought to add to the body of research and literature on youth leadership development in secondary schools, filling a critical gap in the literature. Second, it aimed to help determine the essential elements of successful youth leadership development programs in the areas of content, pedagogy, learner needs, and structure. These elements, in turn, can serve as guidelines for the creation and implementation of effective youth leadership development programs on secondary school campuses. This study was conducted through the use of open-ended surveys with experts in the field of youth leadership development. One research question guided this study: What do experts identify as essential elements of a leadership program that can build leadership capacity among marginalized secondary school students? [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]