For young graduates who are passionate about leadership development, education, and meaningful impact across the African continent, the African Leadership Academy (ALA) Internships 2026 present a rare and valuable opportunity. Based at the ALA campus in Johannesburg, Gauteng, this internship offers hands-on exposure to high-impact programmes that shape the next generation of African leaders.
This opportunity is ideal for candidates who are eager to gain real-world experience in programme coordination, events, and operations while working within a respected pan-African institution.
About African Leadership Academy (ALA)
Since its founding in 2008, African Leadership Academy has focused on identifying, developing, and connecting Africa’s most promising young leaders. Over the past 17 years, ALA has built a strong track record of impact by nurturing ethical, entrepreneurial, and collaborative leadership across the continent.
Each year, the ALA campus hosts more than 250 young leaders from diverse African countries. In addition to its residential programmes, ALA runs pan-African initiatives in entrepreneurship and impactful careers that reach hundreds more. Through these programmes, ALA is already influencing thousands of lives while pursuing a long-term vision of lasting peace and shared prosperity in Africa.
Internship Overview: Program Coordinator (Intern)
The Program Coordinator (Intern) role is designed to provide broad exposure to ALA’s Short Programs and the internal and external stakeholders involved in delivering them. This internship is structured to support both learning and contribution, allowing interns to gain practical experience while playing a meaningful role in programme delivery.
Interns receive in-depth, hands-on training and participate in shared learning sessions and round-table discussions with the Short Programs team and other ALA stakeholders. The role offers involvement across multiple programmes, making it an excellent foundation for a career in programme management, education, or social impact work.
Programmes and Areas of Exposure
Interns will support a variety of ALA short programmes and events, gaining insight into planning, coordination, and execution.
School Visits
The intern will assist with the delivery of school visits, including engagements with institutions such as WLSA, Grange, and Alpha Beta. This includes supporting logistics, coordination, and communication related to these visits.
Model African Union (MAU)
The role includes supporting the delivery of the ALA Model African Union programme, a flagship initiative that exposes young leaders to diplomacy, policy-making, and continental leadership structures.
Global Scholars Program (GSP)
Interns will support the delivery of all four Global Scholars Programs, assisting with operational and administrative tasks that ensure smooth execution.
Other Camps and Events
Additional support will be provided for other camps and partner programmes, including initiatives linked to organisations such as the NMCF and Allan Gray Foundation, among others.
Key Responsibilities
The Program Coordinator Intern will provide administrative and operational support across various programmes. Responsibilities include assisting with communications, logistics, coordination, documentation, and general programme administration. Interns may also support business development activities and contribute to continuous improvement in programme operations.
This role requires flexibility, attention to detail, and a willingness to take initiative in a fast-paced and purpose-driven environment.
Minimum Requirements and Selection Criteria
Applicants interested in the African Leadership Academy Internships 2026 must meet the following requirements:
Education and Experience
- Tertiary-level qualification
- Previous programme coordination experience
- Experience with logistics and events coordination
Technical Skills
- Strong computer skills, including Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
Required Competencies
Core Competencies
- Strong organisational and time management skills
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to learn new computer systems quickly
- Strong collaboration and teamwork skills
- Basic project management ability
- Ability to prioritise tasks and work independently
- High attention to detail
- Proactive mindset with a willingness to take initiative
Personal Attributes
- High levels of integrity, confidentiality, and emotional maturity
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Willingness and ability to build positive relationships with stakeholders
- Committed, enthusiastic, and professional attitude
Reporting Line and Location
The intern will report directly to the Head of Short Programs and will be based at the African Leadership Academy campus in Johannesburg. The internship is scheduled to commence on 01 February 2026.
How to Apply
Applications for the African Leadership Academy Internships 2026 must be submitted online through the official ALA recruitment platform:
https://africanleadershipacademy.simplify.hr
Applicants are encouraged to ensure that all required information and supporting documents are completed accurately before submission.
Conclusion
The African Leadership Academy Internships 2026 offer more than just workplace experience. They provide an opportunity to be part of a mission-driven organisation that is shaping Africa’s future leaders. For graduates who are organised, proactive, and passionate about education, leadership, and social impact, this internship offers meaningful exposure, professional growth, and a strong foundation for a purpose-led career.
