Mastercard Foundation Associates Program 2026 Is Open – See How To Apply

The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program is a 12-month program designed to help recent graduates transition into meaningful employment through practical work experience, professional development, mentorship and career support. Successful program applicants can access relevant job opportunities through the Jobberman career site and be matched with employers based on their skills, experience and interests.

Responsibilities:

• Gain practical workplace experience through a matched employment opportunity.
• Participate in professional development and PREP2SOAR training.
• Build professional networks and workplace skills.
• Work with assigned employers and contribute to relevant job responsibilities.

Requirements:

• Recent graduate from a tertiary institution.
• Hold at least a diploma or first-degree qualification
• 0-2 years of work experience.
• .Aged 18-34 years
• Be unemployed or underemployed
• Be resident in an African country.
• Must meet the requirements of the specific role applied for.
• Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program alumni are encouraged to apply.
• Must have completed or be exempted from NYSC where applicable.
• Applications are open to young people across Africa seeking meaningful early-career experience

Required Documents:

• Valid government-issued ID showing date of birth.
• National service certificate or official exemption document, where applicable.
• Evidence of participation in a Mastercard Foundation programme, if applicable.
• Updated CV

Benefits:

• $230 gross monthly stipend, payable in local currency.
• 12-month professional development opportunity.
• Practical work experience.
• Mentorship and career transition support.
• Professional networking opportunities.
• PREP2SOAR training and onboarding support.
• Reasonable accommodations and tailored support for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Refugees and Displaced Persons (RDPs), where required