2026 Hungry Lion YES Learnership – A Powerful yes4youth Program Opportunity for South African Youth

The 2026 openlearnership Hungry Lion YES learnership is one of the most exciting youth development opportunities now open for applications in South Africa. This initiative, offered in partnership with Digicloud Africa, forms part of the national yes4youth program, a high-impact employment project designed to equip young people with much-needed workplace experience.

For thousands of unemployed youth, gaining real work exposure is the missing piece in securing long-term employment. This learnership aims to close that gap by providing structured training, mentorship, and hands-on experience at Hungry Lion’s Head Office in Stellenbosch, with additional placements available at the company’s warehouse in Kraaifontein.

If you are between 18 and 35, have matric, and are passionate about building a future in a dynamic work environment, this opportunity has the potential to transform your career path.

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Understanding the YES Initiative and Its Impact

Before diving into the details of the programme, it is important to understand the broader context of the yes4youth program. The Youth Employment Service is a South African initiative created to tackle unemployment by partnering with private sector organisations willing to host young people for 12 months of workplace training.

The programme not only empowers participants with critical skills, but also strengthens the labour market by producing work-ready talent. Many employers prefer candidates who already have some experience, and this is exactly what YES provides.

The 2026 openlearnership Hungry Lion YES learnership is therefore more than a short-term placement—it is a launchpad into employment, offering opportunities that many young people cannot access on their own.

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What Makes the 2026 Hungry Lion YES Learnership Unique?

There are many YES learnerships across the country, but several factors make this one stand out:

1. High-Quality Workplace Exposure

Hungry Lion is one of the fastest-growing fast-food brands in Southern Africa, known for its professional, structured work environment. Learners placed at the Head Office in Stellenbosch gain exposure to:

• Office administration
• Supply chain and logistics
• Business operations
• Support functions within a corporate environment

This level of exposure is extremely attractive to future employers.

2. Partnership With Digicloud Africa

Digicloud Africa is known for supporting youth skills development through technology-based solutions. Their involvement adds an additional layer of learning and professionalism to the programme.

3. A Supportive and Motivating Workplace Environment

The organisation values young talent, which makes it an excellent environment for personal and career development.

4. A Full 12-Month Paid Placement

Unlike short internships or training sessions, a year-long programme provides enough time to build experience, develop confidence, and acquire strong references.

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Programme Overview

Participants in the 2026 openlearnership Hungry Lion YES learnership will join the organisation for 12 months starting in February 2026. Learners will be placed in office-based roles where they will support different teams and complete structured learning modules.

The programme is designed to combine:

• Practical work experience
• Professional development
• Work readiness training
• Exposure to corporate structures

This holistic approach ensures that candidates exit the programme with real-world competencies that employers value.

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Key Duties and Responsibilities

Although duties will differ based on the department where the learner is placed, the general responsibilities may include:

• Supporting office operations
• Assisting with paperwork, filing, and administrative tasks
• Updating records and handling basic data entry
• Helping departments with daily activities
• Participating in mandatory learning modules
• Attending training sessions or workshops as required

Learners will receive clear guidance and support, making the environment ideal even for those who have never worked before.

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Requirements for Applicants

To qualify for the 2026 Hungry Lion YES learnership under the yes4youth program, applicants need to meet the following criteria:

• Be 18–35 years old
• Be a South African citizen
• Have never participated in a YES programme before
• Hold a Matric / Grade 12 certificate
• Be able to work in Stellenbosch or at the Kraaifontein warehouse
• Be computer literate
• Attach the following documents:
  • CV
  • Certified ID copy
  • Matric results or certificate

It is important to note that incomplete applications will not be considered, so all documents must be included and clearly readable.

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Personal Competencies Needed

While the academic requirement is straightforward, personal qualities play a major role in selection. Applicants should demonstrate:

• Good interpersonal skills
• Enthusiasm, positivity, and energy
• A willingness to learn
• Strong motivation and commitment
• Resilience and the ability to handle pressure
• Basic problem-solving abilities

These traits help learners succeed in the structured, professional environment provided by Hungry Lion.

submit your application online

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Why You Should Apply

There are several reasons why young South Africans are encouraged to apply for this 2026 openlearnership opportunity:

1. Gain Valuable Work Experience

Experience is often the biggest obstacle for unemployed youth. This learnership solves that problem.

2. Improve Your CV

After completing the year, your CV will demonstrate practical experience in a corporate environment.

3. Develop Professional Skills

From communication to teamwork and time management, learners develop essential workplace skills.

4. Build Confidence

The programme helps participants discover their strengths and work on professional weaknesses.

5. Increased Chances of Future Employment

Many YES graduates find permanent jobs after the programme, either within the host organisation or elsewhere, because of their newfound skills.

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Tips for Submitting a Strong Application

To increase your chances of being selected:

• Make sure your CV looks clean and professional
• Check that your documents are certified and legible
• Mention your computer skills clearly
• Add a brief motivation summarising why you want to join the programme
• Apply as early as possible

Small improvements in your application can make a big difference.

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A Step Toward Youth Empowerment

The yes4youth program continues to play a critical role in empowering young South Africans. With unemployment remaining one of the biggest challenges in the country, opportunities like the 2026 openlearnership Hungry Lion YES learnership provide hope and direction.

This programme not only offers a chance to gain experience but also connects youth with networks, mentors, and professionals who can guide them toward career success.

If you are passionate about starting your career journey and gaining real workplace exposure, this is an opportunity worth applying for.

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openlearnership.co.za Disclaimer

openlearnership.co.za is an information-sharing platform and is not a recruitment agency. We do not handle applications, do not influence the selection process, and do not guarantee placement. All applicants must apply directly through the official platforms of the employer or programme provider. Information is published for educational and career-guidance purposes only.

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