Applications are now open for the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program 2026, a 12-month paid internship and early-career development programme designed to support young African graduates transitioning into meaningful employment.
About the Program
The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program connects talented young people with 12-month paid internships across Africa. The program works through partnerships with external organizations and Foundation partner organizations to support Associates in developing leadership, employability, and entrepreneurship skills following graduation.
The programme is implemented by the Mastercard Foundation and connects selected Associates to partner organisations across Africa for structured work placements, mentorship, and professional development.
According to the Foundation, the programme is part of its broader mission to enable young people to access dignified and fulfilling work opportunities across the continent.
Programme Overview
The Associates Program provides:
-12-month paid internship placement
-Hands-on professional work experience
-Leadership and employability training
-Mentorship and career guidance
-Networking with partner organisations across Africa
-Career transition support after completion
Please Note: Stipend amounts vary by placement, participants generally receive a monthly stipend of up to $300 monthly during the internship period to support their engagement.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants are typically expected to:
-Be young Africans aged 18–35
-Be recent graduates with 0–2 years work -experience
-Be alumni of Mastercard Foundation programmes (preferred but not always required)
-Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to career development
-The programme is also inclusive of women, persons with disabilities, refugees, and internally displaced persons.
What You Will Gain
Participants benefit from a structured early-career pathway that includes:
-Real workplace exposure across different sectors
-Professional skill development
-Mentorship from experienced professionals
-Improved employability and job readiness
-Access to a pan-African professional network
Why This Matters for African Graduates
Youth unemployment and underemployment remain major challenges across Africa. The Associates Program addresses this by providing structured entry into the workforce, helping graduates move from education into stable careers through real-world experience and mentorship.
How To Apply
Applications are to be submitted through the Mastercard Foundation’s official programme portal and partner organisation listings 👉 Here
Roles are typically posted continuously depending on country and organisation. Interested applicants should check the official programme page for a list of current country openings.
