About the Program
The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program connects talented young people with 12-month internships across Africa. The program works through partnerships with external organizations and Foundation partner organizations to support Associates in developing leadership, employability, and entrepreneurship skills following graduation. A stipend is provided for the duration of the internship.
The phase II of the program started in 2025 and will run until 2028.
Who Qualifies?
1. Recent graduates with 0–2 years of work experience
2. Be 18 to 34 years old.
3. Hold a minimum of a diploma or its equivalent.
4. Be currently unemployed or underemployed.
5. Meet the legal requirements to work in the city/country where the role is based, as relocation costs are not covered (this does not apply to remote roles).
6. Be willing to commit to full-time participation in the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program.
7. Be an Alumni of a Mastercard Foundation-supported program (e.g., Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, YALI, Anzisha Prize, etc.). Not required, but preferred.
8. Have completed your country’s mandatory national service, if applicable.
The Associates Program is inclusive and ensures participation from young women, young people with disabilities, and refugees and internally displaced persons.
Location
The program operates across Africa. In East Africa it covers Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Burundi.
Implementing Partners
Shortlist Futures is a workforce innovation lab focused on driving economic growth and expanding employment opportunities across Africa. Headquartered in Nairobi and operating across the continent, the organization partners with impact‑driven employers and supports job seekers through talent development, skills training, and innovative hiring solutions. Their programs have engaged over two million candidates, worked with more than 1,000 organizations, and contributed to the creation of thousands of jobs while targeting sustainable income growth for African youth and communities.
Contact Details
Link to Partner Website Shortlist Futures: https://www.shortlist.net/futures/programs
Mastercard Foundation Associates Program: https://mastercardfdn.org/en/what-we-do/our-programs/mastercard-foundation-associates-program/