Organisation: Unilever South Africa
Closing Date: 30 August 2025
Locations: Durban and Johannesburg
Duration: 12 months (full-time)
Unilever is calling on unemployed South African youth to apply for its YES (Youth Employment Service) Programme 2025. This 12-month initiative provides meaningful workplace experience designed to empower young people and prepare them for sustainable future careers.
About the Unilever YES Programme
The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a national initiative aimed at tackling youth unemployment by offering structured work experience. At Unilever, the programme goes beyond a typical internship—it is a launchpad that equips participants with valuable skills, mentorship, and exposure to real business environments.
As a participant in the Unilever YES Programme, you will:
- Gain hands-on workplace experience and practical skills
- Work on real-world business challenges
- Receive mentorship and professional development
- Be part of an inclusive and collaborative organisational culture
Internship Opportunities at Unilever
Successful applicants will be placed across various business functions, where they will support teams and learn directly from industry professionals. Opportunities are available in:
- Customer Development (CD): Building strong retail relationships and driving sales growth
- Culinary: Assisting chefs, product demonstrations, trade shows, and digital content support
- Marketing: Brand development, consumer engagement, and market expansion strategies
- Supply Chain: Managing sourcing, manufacturing, and product distribution
- Human Resources (HR): Supporting talent management, employee engagement, and organisational growth
- Finance: Engaging in planning, analysis, compliance, and financial reporting
- Information Technology (IT): Supporting digital transformation and business systems
- Mechanical Engineering: Exposure to advanced manufacturing and engineering projects
- Safety, Health and Environment (SHE): Contributing to SHE systems and workplace safety measures
- Communications: Assisting with corporate affairs, PR, and internal and external communication
- Learning & Rewards: Supporting employee training, career development, and reward strategies
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for the Unilever YES Internships 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen aged 18–34 years
- Be unemployed and not studying full-time
- Have completed Matric (Grade 12)
- Hold relevant tertiary qualifications (advantageous)
- Have 0–2 years’ work experience
- Not have participated in a YES Programme before
- Be willing to commit to a 12-month placement
- Possess strong communication, teamwork, and computer skills
Unilever’s Core Behaviours
Unilever looks for candidates who embody its values and behaviours:
- Care Deeply: Show care for people, performance, and the environment
- Focus on What Counts: Prioritise tasks that create the greatest impact
- Stay Three Steps Ahead: Think boldly and embrace innovation
- Deliver with Excellence: Take ownership and consistently achieve results
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- A detailed CV
- A copy of the highest qualification (Grade 12, Diploma, or Degree)
Applications can be completed online via the following links:
- Durban: Apply here – Unilever YES Programme (Durban)
- Johannesburg: Apply here – Unilever YES Programme (Johannesburg)
Conclusion
The Unilever YES Internships 2025 provide unemployed South African youth with a valuable opportunity to gain workplace exposure, develop practical skills, and step confidently into future careers. If you are ready to commit to a 12-month journey of growth and development, this programme could be your gateway to professional success.
