Objectives: This study aims to explore the multifaceted nature of leadership, emphasizing the importance of specific traits, behaviors, and situational adaptability. It investigates the theoretical foundations and practical implications of leadership theories, particularly focusing on how youth leadership development programs can bridge existing gaps. Prior Work: The research builds on classic leadership theories, including trait, behavioral, and contingency theories, and incorporates modern perspectives such as transformational and authentic leadership. It examines prior empirical studies on youth leadership programs and their impact on developing leadership skills. Approach: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, analyzing seminal works and recent studies. The review synthesizes findings from various theoretical and methodological frameworks, emphasizing the diversity of leadership styles and their effectiveness across different contexts. Results: Key findings indicate that leadership effectiveness is influenced by a combination of inherent traits, learned behaviors, and situational adaptability. Youth leadership programs, despite their variability, generally show positive outcomes in developing leadership skills, although methodological inconsistencies affect the generalizability of these results. Implications: For academics and researchers, the study highlights the need for rigorous theoretical grounding in leadership program design. For administrators, it underscores the importance of providing structured leadership opportunities tailored to young adults' developmental needs. Value: The study's key contribution lies in its comprehensive analysis of leadership theories and the empirical evidence supporting youth leadership development. It offers insights into the design and implementation of effective leadership programs, emphasizing the importance of early leadership experiences for long-term personal and professional growth.