BDO South Africa invites unemployed youth to apply for the 2026 YES Internship in People & Culture – Learning & Development. Gain hands-on HR and L&D experience, mentorship, and career-building opportunities in a global professional services firm.
BDO South Africa is accepting applications for its YES Internship Programme 2026 in People & Culture – Learning & Development (L&D). This internship is based in Illovo, Johannesburg, and is designed for graduates who want to build a career in Human Resources, Learning & Development, and Skills Development within a leading global professional services firm.
The 12-month fixed-term internship provides meaningful, real-world exposure to HR operations and development initiatives. Interns work on practical projects and receive mentorship from experienced professionals, gaining valuable insights into the corporate and HR environment.
About BDO South Africa
BDO South Africa is part of one of the fastest-growing professional services networks worldwide, offering audit, advisory, tax, and business solutions. The organisation places a strong emphasis on people development, inclusive workplaces, and creating opportunities for young talent to grow professionally.
About the YES Internship Programme
The YES Internship Programme is designed as a launchpad for young professionals, offering hands-on experience rather than observational roles. Interns are actively involved in HR and L&D projects, contributing to tasks that have a real impact on people development within the company.
In this role, interns will support training initiatives, reporting, HR processes, and data management, gaining exposure to a wide range of HR functions while developing key professional skills.
Key Responsibilities
Interns will gain practical experience in areas such as:
- Learning & Development reporting and analytics
- Database and documentation management
- Supporting HR and training programmes
- Collecting, analysing, and presenting data
- Preparing reports and presentations using Excel and PowerPoint
- Contributing to projects that impact organisational development
This hands-on approach ensures interns leave the programme with both practical knowledge and professional confidence.
Who Qualifies
Applicants for the BDO YES Internship 2026 should meet the following requirements:
- Completed a degree in one of the following fields:
- Human Resource Management
- Industrial Psychology
- Business Administration
- Training & Development
- Skills Development
- Strong MS Office skills, especially intermediate to advanced Excel and PowerPoint
- Previous exposure to office or administrative tasks such as data entry, reporting, or coordination
Additionally, successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong reporting and analytical skills
- Good database and document management ability
- Excellent written and verbal communication in English
- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively
- High attention to detail
- Teamwork and collaboration skills
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online through the official BDO recruitment portal.
Application link: BDO YES Intern 2026 – Apply Here
Application details:
- Use the correct Job Reference Number: BDO-2059
- Submit your application before 05 February 2026
- Include all relevant documents, such as your CV, academic transcripts, and proof of qualification
Early applications are encouraged, as only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Career Value of the YES Internship
As a YES Intern at BDO, graduates gain:
- Hands-on workplace experience in HR and Learning & Development
- Mentorship from experienced leaders
- Confidence and skills to transition from graduate to professional
- Exposure to corporate processes and professional best practices
- Enhanced employability in HR, corporate, and business development roles
This programme gives young professionals a strong foundation to build a career in HR or organisational development.
Conclusion
The BDO YES Internship 2026 – People & Culture: Learning & Development provides an excellent opportunity for unemployed South African graduates to gain practical experience, mentorship, and professional growth.
Applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria, prepare their documentation, and submit their applications online before the 05 February 2026 closing date. This programme offers real-world experience and a pathway into a career within a global professional services firm.
