The Hungry Lion YES Learnership Programme 2026 offers South African youth aged 18–35 a 12-month work experience opportunity in Stellenbosch or Kraaifontein. Gain administration, workplace, and professional skills while boosting your employability. Apply before 1 January 2026.
If you’re a young South African eager to start your career but struggling to access opportunities because of limited experience, the Hungry Lion YES Learnership Programme 2026 could be the turning point you need. This programme offers structured learning, hands-on workplace exposure, and a real chance to secure long-term employment.
Hungry Lion, in partnership with Digicloud Africa, is offering a 12-month YES learnership based at either the Stellenbosch Head Office or the Kraaifontein warehouse. If you have completed Matric and are ready to commit to a full year of learning and development, this opportunity could be the start of something meaningful.
Quick Overview
- Opportunity: Hungry Lion Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme 2026
- Duration: 12 months (February 2026 – February 2027)
- Location: Stellenbosch (Head Office) or Kraaifontein (Warehouse)
- Who Can Apply: South African youth aged 18–35 with Matric
- Stipend: YES-compliant monthly stipend
- Closing Date: 1 January 2026
- Partner Organisation: Digicloud Africa
- Experience Gained: Administration, workplace readiness, digital tools, communication, teamwork, and professional conduct
About Hungry Lion and the YES Programme
Hungry Lion is one of Southern Africa’s fastest-growing quick-service restaurant brands. Beyond delivering value meals to millions, the company is committed to uplifting local communities by creating opportunities for unemployed youth.
The YES (Youth Employment Service) Programme is a national initiative designed to reduce youth unemployment by giving young people 12 months of valuable workplace experience. Having YES experience on your CV shows employers that you understand workplace expectations and have been exposed to real operational tasks.
The Hungry Lion YES Learnership gives you a supported pathway into employment by equipping you with skills that are useful in any industry.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Thousands of young South Africans have completed Matric but cannot secure jobs due to a lack of experience. YES placements help break this cycle by providing:
- A full year of hands-on work experience
- Exposure to office and operational environments
- Digital and administrative skills
- Soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving
- A strong CV booster that employers recognise
If you are determined to build a career and not just find temporary work, this programme offers a powerful stepping stone.
Duties and Responsibilities
During the programme, you will participate in structured development activities that may include:
Office and Administrative Support
You may be placed in departments such as operations, HR, marketing, logistics, or warehouse support. Tasks will vary depending on your placement but will include practical office experience.
Learning and Development Modules
The YES learnership curriculum includes digital skills, communication, professionalism, and essential workplace behaviour training.
Daily Team Support
You will assist your team with day-to-day operations, which helps you develop real workplace competence and confidence.
Hungry Lion provides guidance throughout the programme, making it suitable even for applicants with no previous experience.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for this learnership, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be between the ages of 18 and 35
- Be a South African citizen
- Must not have participated in a YES programme before
- Must have completed Matric
- Must submit:
- A CV
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified Matric results
- Must be willing to work in Stellenbosch or Kraaifontein
- Must be computer literate
Only complete applications will be considered.
Competencies Needed
Hungry Lion is looking for individuals who demonstrate:
- Strong interpersonal skills
- A positive and enthusiastic attitude
- Willingness to learn and grow
- Resilience and ability to adapt
- Problem-solving ability
These qualities help ensure you can thrive in a fast-paced professional environment.
How to Apply
To apply, prepare and submit the following documents:
- Your updated CV
- A certified copy of your ID
- Certified Matric results
Submit your full application before the closing date.
APPLY FOR THE HUNGRY LION YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (YES) LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME HERE
Make sure your documents are clear, certified, and correctly attached. Early submission is recommended, as late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Conclusion
The Hungry Lion YES Learnership Programme 2026 is a powerful opportunity for young people who want to build real workplace experience and boost their employability. With a full year of structured training, exposure to professional environments, and mentorship, this programme can open doors that would otherwise remain closed. If you’re ready to grow, learn, and take your future seriously, this is your moment to apply.
