Mastercard Foundation Associates Program for Young Africans 2026

The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program connects young Africans, particularly recent graduates and Mastercard Foundation programme alumni, with 12-month paid work placements, employability and enrichment training, and structured mentorship. The programme equips participants with practical experience, professional exposure, and workplace competencies that support their transition into dignified and fulfilling employment.

About MasterCard Foundation

The Mastercard Foundation is an international non-governmental organization established by Mastercard in 2006. The organization, which is based in Toronto, Ontario, has supported work in 49 countries.In 2018, Mastercard Foundation shifted to a specific focus on Africa, through its Young Africa Works strategy. The foundation develops programs primarily focused on reducing gender and economic inequality, expanding access to quality education, increasing the opportunities for decent work, and supporting overall economic growth.Funding is primaril... continue reading

Mastercard Foundation Associates Program for Young Africans

Aim and Benefits of Mastercard Foundation Associates Program for Young Africans

• 12-month paid work placements, employability and enrichment training, and structured mentorship.
• Reasonable accommodations and tailored support mechanisms will be provided, where required, to ensure equitable access and full participation throughout the programme.

Requirements for Mastercard Foundation Associates Program for Young Africans Qualification

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age Requirement: Be between 18 and 34 years old

• Education Requirement: Hold at least a diploma or first-degree qualification

• Employment Status: Be unemployed or underemployed

• Work Authorization: Possess a valid work permit allowing them to work in their country of residence (if different from their country of citizenship)

• Residency: Be a resident in an African country

• Alumni Status: Be an alum of a Mastercard Foundation-supported programme (e.g., Anzisha Prize, CorpsAfrica, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Skoll Emerging Leaders Initiative, Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), Youth Think Tank, Zambezi Prize, or the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program).

• National Service Requirement: Have completed the country’s mandatory national service, where applicable.

• Applications from Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and Refugees and Displaced Persons (RDPs)

Documents Required for Application

Before you begin filling out the application, please ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Birth Certificate

• NYSC Certificate or Exemption Letter

• Evidence of participation in any Mastercard Foundation program

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Check also:Free Ongoing Fully Funded Scholarships Guide 2026 (Download Now)

Application Deadline

How to Apply