Unilever has opened applications for its YES Programme, a 12-month internship designed to provide young South Africans with valuable work experience and a strong foundation for future careers.
What Is the YES Programme?
The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a national initiative that aims to empower South African youth by creating pathways into the workplace. At Unilever, the YES Programme goes beyond traditional internships, offering:
- 12 months of structured work experience
- Exposure to real business challenges
- Practical training across multiple disciplines
- Opportunities to work in fast-paced, dynamic environments
Participants are placed in either Johannesburg or Durban, depending on business needs, and will gain hands-on experience that prepares them for future leadership roles.
Business Functions Covered
Interns will be placed across various business functions, offering wide exposure to the company’s operations:
- Customer Development (CD): Building strong retailer relationships and supporting sales execution.
- Culinary: Assisting chefs, preparing product samples, and supporting demo events.
- Marketing: Driving consumer engagement, brand growth, and market strategies.
- Supply Chain: Gaining exposure to end-to-end product delivery systems.
- Human Resources (HR): Supporting employee engagement, talent management, and organisational development.
- Finance: Assisting in financial planning, reporting, and compliance.
- Information Technology (IT): Supporting digital transformation and technology-driven solutions.
- Mechanical Engineering: Working on innovative engineering projects within Unilever’s manufacturing operations.
- Safety, Health and Environment (SHE): Assisting SHE coordinators in implementing workplace safety systems.
- Communications: Supporting internal and external communications strategies.
- Learning & Rewards: Contributing to employee development, training, and performance recognition initiatives.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following:
- Be a South African citizen aged 18 – 34 years.
- Be currently unemployed and not studying full-time.
- Have completed a Matric certificate (Grade 12).
- Hold no more than 2 years’ work experience.
- Not have completed a YES Programme previously.
- Be available for the full 12-month programme.
- Possess strong communication, computer literacy, and teamwork skills.
Relevant tertiary qualifications are advantageous but not mandatory.
Unilever’s Workplace Culture
Unilever’s values and behaviours are central to the YES Programme. Candidates are expected to demonstrate:
- Care Deeply – A genuine commitment to people, performance, and impact.
- Focus on What Counts – The ability to prioritise and deliver with purpose.
- Stay Three Steps Ahead – A proactive and creative approach to challenges.
- Deliver with Excellence – Taking ownership and meeting commitments at pace.
The company is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, with the YES Programme forming part of its Employment Equity objectives.
Application Details
Applicants are required to attach the following:
- An updated CV
- A copy of the highest qualification (Matric, Diploma, or Degree)
Apply Below:
Key Dates
- Application deadline: 30 August 2025
- Locations: Johannesburg and Durban
Unilever encourages candidates from designated groups, in line with the Employment Equity Act.
Check also: SHRA Internship Opportunities
The YES Programme is more than just an internship. It is a launchpad for South Africa’s next generation of leaders, offering practical learning, personal growth, and exposure to a global company. For graduates and school leavers eager to gain real workplace experience, this is an opportunity to take the first bold step into a professional career.