The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program connects talented young people with 12-month 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.
Application Deadline:
- Not specified (roles are posted on an ongoing basis).
Tell Me About The Award:
The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program is a 12‑month paid internship designed to connect young African graduates with meaningful early‑career opportunities. The program provides mentorship, leadership training, employability and entrepreneurship skill‑building, and career transition support. Since 2023, more than 1,000 Associates across 22 countries have participated, including women, persons with disabilities, refugees, and internally displaced persons.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Open to all fields of study.
- Placements are available across diverse sectors depending on partner organizations and country-specific opportunities.
Type:
- Paid Internship | Training & Career Development
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be recent graduates with 0–2 years of work experience.
- Be Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program alumni or alumni of other Mastercard Foundation programs.
- Be young people aged 18–35 across Africa seeking meaningful early‑career experience.
- Demonstrate commitment to leadership, employability, or entrepreneurship.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Based on eligibility, motivation, and alignment with program goals.
- Inclusive selection ensures participation from women, persons with disabilities, refugees, and displaced persons.
- Candidates are matched with internship roles in their country of residence or remote opportunities.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- All African countries.
Where will the Award be Taken?
- Across Africa, depending on available placements.
- Opportunities include:
- Anglophone West Africa
- East Africa
- Francophone Africa
- South Africa
- Remote roles
How Many Awards?
- Not specified; placements are ongoing and depend on available roles.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- 12‑month internship placement.
- Hands‑on professional work experience.
- Leadership, employability, and entrepreneurship training.
- Mentorship and access to professional networks.
- Monthly stipend for the duration of the internship.
- Career transition support.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- 12 months.
How to Apply:
- Review eligibility criteria.
- Apply directly through the application links provided by the Mastercard Foundation.
- Select roles based on your country of residence or apply for remote roles.
- Roles are posted on an ongoing basis — check regularly for updates.
- Join the Mastercard Foundation Transitions Community on LinkedIn for tips and guidance.
