Discover the Hungry Lion YES Learnership Programme 2026, a 12-month youth development opportunity in Stellenbosch and Kraaifontein offering unemployed South Africans meaningful workplace experience, structured training and a pathway toward long-term employability.
South Africa continues to experience high youth unemployment, and programmes that bridge the gap between education and employment have never been more important. The Hungry Lion YES Learnership Programme 2026 is one such opportunity—an initiative designed to give young people structured, practical exposure to the world of work while building confidence, professionalism and employable skills.
Developed in partnership with Digicloud Africa, this year-long programme is hosted primarily at the Hungry Lion Head Office in Stellenbosch, with additional placements available at the company’s Kraaifontein warehouse. The programme begins in February 2026 and offers a fully immersive corporate experience for determined job seekers eager to grow, learn and improve their chances of long-term career success.
A Learnership Designed for Youth Development
The Hungry Lion YES Learnership is not simply an entry-level job placement. It is a structured, development-focused programme aimed at teaching participants the fundamentals of workplace behaviour, performance, teamwork and responsibility. Learners complete formal training modules throughout the year while taking on office and warehouse-based duties aligned with their placement.
What Participants Can Expect During the Programme
Once accepted, learners take on daily operational responsibilities tailored to their department. While specific duties are discussed with successful candidates, the learnership typically includes tasks such as:
- Administrative and clerical support
- Data capturing and document management
- Assisting in workflow coordination
- Supporting general office functions
- Participating in warehouse processes (for Kraaifontein placements)
- Completing online and in-person learning modules
- Practising communication, teamwork and problem-solving
By the end of the 12 months, learners should feel more confident and capable—better prepared to step into roles requiring responsibility, reliability and professionalism.
Minimum Requirements for Applicants
The programme is open to unemployed South African youth who meet specific criteria to ensure the opportunity reaches individuals who will benefit most. Applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Be South African citizens
- Never have participated in a YES learnership before
- Have completed Matric or Grade 12
- Be computer literate
- Be able and willing to work in Stellenbosch or Kraaifontein
- Submit a complete application including a CV, ID, and matric certificate
Only complete applications will be evaluated, and the selection process is thorough to ensure fairness and suitability.
Competencies Hungry Lion Looks For
Beyond qualifications, Hungry Lion seeks individuals who demonstrate promise. The ideal candidate is someone who:
- Communicates well
- Works well with others
- Shows enthusiasm and initiative
- Is committed to personal and professional growth
- Handles pressure constructively
- Solves problems logically
- Brings energy and reliability to a team environment
These traits reflect the type of employee who thrives in a corporate setting and benefits most from a programme like this.
Closing Date for Applications
Applications close on 1 January 2026, giving young people time to prepare and submit all documents correctly. APPLICATION PROCESS
A High-Value Opportunity for Youth Seeking Growth
What makes the Hungry Lion YES Learnership particularly powerful is that it doesn’t just provide short-term work exposure—it offers an entry point into long-term employability. Participants leave the programme with better communication skills, stronger workplace discipline, practical experience and a clearer understanding of what employers expect.
For young South Africans who are committed, eager and ready to invest in themselves, this programme can open doors that may otherwise seem out of reach.
Conclusion: A Transformative First Step Into the Working World
The Hungry Lion YES Learnership Programme 2026 stands out as an accessible and impactful opportunity for unemployed youth. It ensures that participants gain not only workplace experience but also confidence, discipline and a professional skill set that strengthens their employability far beyond the duration of the programme.
If you meet the criteria and are ready to dedicate a full year to growth and learning, this can be the stepping stone that launches your career journey.
