The Mastercard Foundation has opened applications for its 2026 Associates Programme, offering young Africans an opportunity to gain professional experience through paid internship placements.
The programme is designed to support young people in developing leadership, employability and entrepreneurship skills while gaining hands-on experience within professional organisations.
The Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme provides internship placements through partnerships with external organisations and Foundation partner organisations across Africa.
According to the programme information, Associates will receive professional mentorship, career development support and a stipend throughout the internship period.
The programme is targeted at recent graduates and young professionals seeking early-career opportunities and practical workplace experience.
Eligibility requirements
To be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme, applicants should meet the relevant eligibility requirements, including:
– Be a recent graduate with between zero and two years of work experience.
– Be a Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme alumnus or alumna.
– Be an alumnus or alumna of other Mastercard Foundation programmes.
– Be a young person aged 18 to 35.
– Be based in an eligible African country and seeking meaningful early-career experience.
Benefits of the programme
Successful Associates will have access to a range of professional development opportunities, including:
– A 12-month paid internship placement.
– Hands-on work experience.
– Leadership, employability and entrepreneurship skills development.
– Mentorship and professional networking opportunities.
– A stipend for the duration of the internship.
– Career transition support.
The programme provides opportunities across different regions and formats, including Anglophone West Africa, East Africa, Francophone Africa, South Africa and remote roles.
The available positions are expected to be posted on an ongoing basis, allowing eligible candidates to apply for opportunities relevant to their location and professional interests.
How to apply
Interested and qualified candidates should visit the official application platform and select opportunities relevant to their country of residence or apply for available remote roles.
Applicants are encouraged to review the requirements for individual positions carefully before submitting their applications.
The programme does not currently specify a single application deadline, as opportunities are posted on an ongoing basis.
The Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme is aimed at helping young Africans transition from education into meaningful employment by providing practical work experience, professional networks and career development support.
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