Unilever YES Programme Culinary Internship 2025 (12-Month Contract)

Unilever is calling all young, passionate South Africans who dream of working in the food and hospitality industry to apply for their Culinary YES Internship 2025. This exciting 12-month opportunity is designed to give youth the chance to gain real work experience while learning from some of the best professionals in the business. If you have a qualification in Culinary or Cookery and are eager to grow your skills in a world-class company, this could be your big break.

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Discover a World of Possibilities with Unilever

Unilever is one of the world’s most loved and respected companies, with over 3.4 billion people across 190 countries using its products every day. From food to personal care and home essentials, Unilever’s brands touch lives everywhere. But what truly makes this company stand out is its mission — to make sustainable living a common goal for everyone.

At Unilever, people are the heart of everything. The company believes that when employees are given purpose, guidance, and growth opportunities, they can change the world — starting with their own careers. Joining Unilever means joining a family that values innovation, inclusion, and learning.

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About the YES Programme

The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a national initiative designed to help young South Africans gain valuable work experience and start building their careers. At Unilever, this programme isn’t just about giving you a job — it’s about helping you create your future.

Over 12 months, participants are placed in real working environments, from offices to production kitchens. You’ll learn from experienced professionals, develop essential job skills, and grow your confidence to thrive in the professional world. It’s more than just an internship — it’s your first step toward a long-term career.

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What You’ll Do in the Culinary YES Programme

As a Culinary Intern, you will be part of Unilever’s dynamic food innovation team. You’ll assist chefs and specialists with exciting tasks such as:

• Preparing product samples for customer demonstrations, trade shows, and food events.
• Helping organize and set up demo events and culinary presentations.
• Assisting chefs in creating engaging cooking content, including “how-to” videos and online food tutorials.
• Supporting the logistics and planning side of events to ensure everything runs smoothly.

This internship is perfect for someone who loves food, enjoys being hands-on, and wants to understand how professional kitchens and food innovation work at a global level.

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Who Can Apply

To qualify for this incredible opportunity, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a South African citizen aged 18 to 34.
• Be unemployed and not studying full-time.
• Have a Matric certificate (Grade 12).
• Hold a relevant tertiary qualification in Culinary or Cookery (Higher Certificate, Diploma, or Degree).
• Have less than 2 years of work experience.
• Be committed to completing the full 12-month programme.
• Have not participated in a YES Programme before.
• Be willing to learn, grow, and adapt in a professional setting.
• Show strong communication, teamwork, and computer skills.

Unilever is looking for individuals who are proactive, curious, and ready to take initiative. If you are passionate about food and eager to make your mark, you’ll fit right in.

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The Qualities Unilever Values

Unilever’s team thrives on passion, teamwork, and innovation. Here’s what the company looks for in its interns:

• Care Deeply: Show passion for people, the planet, and performance.
• Focus on What Counts: Stay focused on goals and always give your best.
• Stay Three Steps Ahead: Think creatively, be curious, and anticipate challenges.
• Deliver with Excellence: Always take responsibility for your work and aim for success.

These are not just company values — they are qualities that will help you grow into a confident professional ready to take on the world.

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What You’ll Gain

By joining the Unilever YES Programme, you’ll gain:

• Real-world experience in one of the world’s top companies.
• Mentorship and guidance from industry professionals.
• A deeper understanding of food production, innovation, and culinary presentation.
• Improved communication, planning, and teamwork skills.
• A powerful addition to your CV that will open future career doors.

This programme doesn’t just help you find a job — it helps you build a career path.

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How to Apply

To apply, make sure to include the following documents:

• An updated CV.
• A copy of your highest qualification (Matric, Culinary, or Cookery Certificate/Diploma/Degree).

Applications close soon, so make sure you don’t miss your chance to start this exciting journey with Unilever.

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Final Thoughts

The Unilever YES Programme in Culinary/Cookery is not just a stepping stone — it’s a life-changing opportunity. It’s where passion meets purpose, where learning meets experience, and where your dreams of a career in the culinary world can begin.

If you’re ready to grow, learn, and make an impact, Unilever is ready to welcome you. Don’t wait — your future starts here.