Mastercard Foundation Associates Program

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.

The programme is grounded in equity, diversity, and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and Refugees and Displaced Persons (RDPs). Reasonable accommodations and tailored support mechanisms will be provided, where required, to ensure equitable access and full participation throughout the programme.

To stay informed about programme updates, opportunities, and resources, applicants are encouraged to join the Transition Community via the following platforms:

Eligibility Criteria

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
Residency: Be a resident in an African country
Young people across Africa seeking meaningful early‑career experience


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

Alumni of the Mastercard Foundation supported program are strongly encouraged to apply!

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

Valid Government-Issued ID (Showing Date of Birth)
National Service Certificate or an official Exemption Letter/Document (e.g., NYS, NYSS or equivalent national service program in your country).
Evidence of participation in any Mastercard Foundation program (If applicable)
Curriculum Vitae (CV)