Pepkor Lifestyle is inviting applications from unemployed South African graduates for its 12-month Graduate Internship Programme, funded by the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&R SETA). The opportunity is based at the company's Head Office in Johannesburg, Gauteng, and is aimed at young graduates who want to gain practical workplace experience and develop their careers in the retail industry. The programme offers structured workplace exposure, professional development and the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals across different business functions. Successful candidates will gain exposure to retail operations, company systems, research, project activities and various store environments. Graduates with qualifications in Marketing Management, Business Management, Human Resource Management, Industrial Psychology, Digital Marketing, E-commerce, Project Management, Information Systems and related fields are encouraged to apply. Pepkor Lifestyle also welcomes applications from candidates with disabilities. Minimum Requirements To qualify for this graduate internship, applicants must meet the following requirements: Hold a degree or diploma in one of the specified fields of study. Be currently unemployed. Be a South African citizen with a valid South African ID. Be under the age of 32. Hold a qualification from an accredited university or tertiary institution. Qualifications Accepted Pepkor Lifestyle is looking for graduates with qualifications in the following fields: Marketing Management Business Management or Business Administration Human Resource Management or Industrial Psychology Digital Marketing, Marketing or E-commerce IT Project Administration or Project Management Information Systems or Business Information Technology Applicants with qualifications relevant to these fields are encouraged to review the official vacancy requirements before submitting their applications. Key Responsibilities Successful candidates will participate in onboarding and induction programmes to learn about the company's different business functions. They will perform assigned duties under the supervision of experienced employees and gain practical experience in a professional retail environment. Responsibilities will include conducting research, documenting industry trends, identifying potential technologies and best practices, visiting different stores and business locations, and preparing presentations for evaluation. Interns may also be assigned additional responsibilities to support business objectives and gain broader exposure to retail operations. Skills and Competencies Candidates should demonstrate a willingness to learn, resilience, adaptability and the ability to take initiative. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, sound judgement, teamwork, independent working ability and relationship-building skills are important. Applicants should also have good written and verbal communication skills, presentation abilities, a strong work ethic and an interest in improving customer service. What the Programme Offers The 12-month programme provides structured workplace experience and access to a team of professionals who can support graduates' professional growth. Participants will have opportunities to learn from experienced industry professionals, contribute to business projects, explore different retail functions and develop the workplace skills needed to pursue future career opportunities. Documents Required Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents: An updated CV. A certified copy of their South African ID, certified within the last three months. Certified copies of their qualifications or certificates, certified within the last three months. Certified copies of their academic transcript or tertiary results, certified within the last three months. Important: Pepkor Lifestyle states that candidates who successfully submit their required documents will receive first consideration. Ensure that your application includes all the requested documents. Closing Date The closing date for the Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Internship Programme is 21 October 2026. The deadline is approaching, so eligible graduates should prepare their documents and submit their applications as soon as possible. How to Apply Interested candidates who meet the requirements are encouraged to apply before the closing date. To apply, click the “Apply Now” button on this page. You will be redirected to the official application page where you can complete and submit your application directly to the employer. Join WhatsApp Channel