Internships

Unilever YES Programme 2025 – 12 Months of Paid Work Experience

Unilever is inviting motivated young South Africans to apply for their YES Programme 2025 (12-month Internship Opportunity) in Durban. This programme is designed to give unemployed youth meaningful work experience while preparing them for long-term careers. If you are eager to gain real workplace skills, this is your chance to join one of the world’s leading companies.

The Unilever YES Programme is not just another internship — it’s a launchpad to success. Applications are open now, so don’t miss your chance to apply.

Why Choose the Unilever YES Programme?

With 3.4 billion people in more than 190 countries using Unilever products every day, this is a company that has a massive impact. From food and homecare products to beauty and wellness brands, Unilever is behind many household names you know and love.

The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme at Unilever is more than just a job. It’s a full year of exposure to:

Real-world business challenges
Professional mentorship from industry leaders
Skills development in a global company
Practical experience across different business functions

Unilever’s mission is to make sustainable living commonplace — and through this programme, you’ll be part of a team that is shaping a better world.

Programme Overview

The YES Programme runs for 12 months and provides unemployed youth with a structured learning journey. During this period, participants will:

Take on support roles in different business units
Work on meaningful projects that improve business operations
Build confidence while gaining industry exposure
Prepare for future employment opportunities

Business Functions You Could Join

Successful candidates may be placed in different areas of the business, including:

Customer Development (CD): Work with major retailers to ensure Unilever products deliver results in stores.
Culinary: Assist with product demos, customer events, and content creation for chefs and webinars.
Marketing: Help build strong brands, engage consumers, and grow market share.
Supply Chain: Learn how products are sourced, manufactured, and delivered efficiently.
Human Resources (HR): Support employee development and engagement projects.
Finance: Get exposure to planning, analysis, and reporting.
IT (Information Technology): Help support digital tools and systems.
Mechanical Engineering: Gain hands-on exposure to world-class manufacturing processes.
Safety, Health & Environment (SHE): Work with site coordinators to reduce workplace risks.
Communications: Assist with internal and external corporate communication.
Learning & Rewards: Support employee training and compensation strategies.

No matter which function you join, you’ll gain skills that will help you thrive in the workplace.

Minimum Requirements

To apply for the Unilever YES Programme 2025, you must:

Be a South African citizen between 18 and 34 years old
Be currently unemployed and not studying full-time
Have completed Matric (Grade 12)
Hold relevant tertiary qualifications (advantageous but not compulsory)
Have less than 2 years of work experience
Commit to the full 12 months
Not have completed a YES Programme previously

Additional skills that will help you succeed:

Strong computer literacy
Good written and spoken communication
Time management and teamwork skills
A positive attitude and willingness to learn

Unilever’s Behaviours & Values

Unilever is looking for people who reflect their core behaviours:

Care Deeply: Passion for people, consumers, and performance
Focus on What Counts: Prioritize important goals and deliver with impact
Stay Three Steps Ahead: Think creatively, stay curious, and anticipate trends
Deliver with Excellence: Take responsibility and always aim for high performance

What You Need to Apply

Candidates must attach the following documents:

An updated CV
A copy of your highest qualification (Matric, Diploma, or Degree)

Unilever is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Applicants from designated groups are strongly encouraged to apply in line with the Employment Equity Act.

Why This Programme Matters

The Unilever YES Programme is more than just work experience — it’s a chance to build your career in a supportive, inclusive, and innovative environment. By the end of the 12 months, you’ll have practical skills, industry exposure, and a stronger CV to help you stand out in the job market.

This is not just a step, but a leap toward your future. If you’re ready to unlock your potential and work with one of the world’s most respected companies, then apply now and secure your place in the Unilever YES Programme 2025.

Apply Now