Mastercard Foundation Internship 2026, opportunity for young Africans
The Mastercard Foundation Internship 2026 is open for young Africans with 0–4 years’ experience. It offers 11 months of work, learning, and mentoring across several African offices. Apply before 7 September 2025 to be considered.

The Mastercard Foundation Internship 2026 is a doorway for fresh graduates and early professionals across Africa. It is meant for those with little to no job history, yet hungry to build skills and start out in the working world.
The idea is simple but weighty, give young Africans a chance to learn by doing. Interns help run projects, support partnerships, and add hands to the Foundation’s wide work. At the same time, they gain the kind of workplace lessons no textbook can give.
Structure of the Mastercard Foundation Internship
The internship runs for 11 months on a fixed term, non-renewable. During this time:Interns are placed in different teams to back projects and daily work.
Each one joins the onboarding and orientation that sets the tone for the year.
There is access to career development sessions and digital learning platforms.
It is designed to give more than desk work. The set-up mixes routine, training, and exposure.
Benefits of the Mastercard Foundation Internship
Participants stand to gain:Exposure to real practices in international development, with focus on youth jobs and Africa’s growth.
Mentorship and coaching from seasoned staff.
A seat at workshops, seminars, and networking events.
Hands-on work with African organisations, private companies, and government partners.
Better readiness for jobs or entrepreneurship that tie into the Foundation’s Young Africa Works strategy.
For many, it is a springboard into future roles, whether in NGOs, firms, or public service.
Who can apply for the Mastercard Foundation Internship
Applicants should:Be a recent graduate, with 0 to 4 years’ work experience.
Hold a bachelor’s degree in any field from a recognised university.
Show real interest in youth development, social growth, and Africa’s progress.
Have solid grades and ability to use what they learnt in practice.
Skills and traits soughtResearch and problem-solving skills.
Clear and effective writing and speaking.
Comfort with MS Office or Google Workspace.
Ability to work in multicultural settings.
Energy, drive, and a genuine wish to make change in Africa.
Good time management, steady organisation, and self-motivation.
It is not a place for the half-hearted. The programme seeks those with passion and discipline.
Key dates and locationsApplication deadline: 7 September 2025, at 00:59 hrs (EAT).
Start date: 15 January 2026.
Locations: Foundation offices in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal.
The spread allows interns to work close to home or across borders, depending on where they are placed.
How to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Internship
To apply, candidates should visit the official Mastercard Foundation Internship application page, fill out the online form, and upload all required details before the cut-off time. Delay is risky, as late entries will not be considered.