Apply for the Maersk YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027. Unemployed South African youth can gain 12 months of workplace experience in logistics, administration, customer service, and business operations.
Launch Your Career with the Maersk YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027
Young South Africans looking to gain valuable workplace experience now have an exciting opportunity to apply for the Maersk YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027.
The programme is designed to help unemployed youth gain practical skills, professional exposure, and workplace experience within one of the world’s leading logistics and supply chain companies.
As youth unemployment continues to affect thousands of South Africans, initiatives such as the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme play an important role in preparing young people for the world of work.
Successful candidates will be placed in Johannesburg, Durban, or Cape Town, where they will receive hands-on experience in a professional corporate environment.
Learnership Overview
Company: Maersk
Programme: YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027
Duration: 12 Months
Locations: Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town
Industry: Logistics and Supply Chain
Age Requirement: 18 to 30 years
Minimum Qualification: Grade 12 (Matric)
Employment Status: Unemployed
Application Closing Date: Not specified
About the Maersk YES Learnership Programme
The Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative was established to provide unemployed South African youth with meaningful workplace experience.
Through the Maersk YES Learnership Programme, successful participants will gain practical exposure while working within a global organisation known for innovation, operational excellence, and customer-focused services.
The programme combines structured workplace learning with real business experience, helping participants develop skills that are highly valued by employers.
Learners will work alongside experienced professionals and gain insight into how international logistics and supply chain operations function.
What Learners Will Gain
Participants selected for the programme can expect to:
- Gain practical workplace experience.
- Develop professional and workplace skills.
- Improve their future employability.
- Build professional networks.
- Develop confidence in a corporate environment.
- Learn customer service and business operations skills.
- Gain exposure to global logistics operations.
- Strengthen communication and teamwork abilities.
The experience gained during the programme can serve as a strong foundation for future employment opportunities.
Fresh listings:
Areas of Workplace Exposure
Depending on operational requirements, learners may gain exposure in various business areas, including:
- Administration.
- Customer service.
- Business support.
- Operations.
- Logistics coordination.
- Supply chain activities.
- Data capturing.
- Office support.
- Documentation management.
- Communication and reporting.
Learners will receive practical training while supporting the daily operations of the business.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Have completed Grade 12 (Matric).
- Be unemployed.
- Be between the ages of 18 and 30.
- Have less than two years of work experience.
- Not have participated in a YES Programme previously.
- Not be permanently employed.
- Be willing to commit to the full 12-month programme.
Only candidates who meet all the requirements will be considered.
Additional Qualifications That May Be Advantageous
Although Matric is the minimum requirement, candidates with additional qualifications may have an advantage during the selection process.
Additional qualifications may include:
- Higher Certificates.
- Diplomas.
- Degrees.
- TVET qualifications.
- Business-related certificates.
- Logistics qualifications.
- Supply Chain qualifications.
- Administration qualifications.
Possessing a tertiary qualification does not guarantee selection.
Skills and Competencies Required
Maersk is looking for motivated individuals with strong potential and a willingness to learn.
Successful candidates should demonstrate the following skills:
Computer Literacy
Applicants should be comfortable using:
- Microsoft Word.
- Microsoft Excel.
- Email systems.
- Online platforms.
- Basic office software.
Communication Skills
Candidates should be able to:
- Communicate effectively.
- Write professionally.
- Interact confidently with colleagues and customers.
Ability to Learn
The logistics industry is dynamic and fast-paced.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Curiosity.
- Adaptability.
- Problem-solving skills.
- Willingness to learn.
Time Management
Learners should be able to:
- Meet deadlines.
- Prioritise tasks.
- Manage workloads effectively.
Teamwork
Successful learners should be able to:
- Work collaboratively.
- Support team goals.
- Share ideas effectively.
Positive Attitude
Maersk values candidates who are:
- Reliable.
- Enthusiastic.
- Professional.
- Eager to develop.
Why Consider a Career in Logistics?
Logistics is one of the fastest-growing industries globally and offers a wide range of career opportunities.
Potential career paths include:
- Logistics Coordinator.
- Supply Chain Administrator.
- Operations Controller.
- Customer Service Representative.
- Warehouse Supervisor.
- Procurement Officer.
- Shipping Coordinator.
- Freight Specialist.
- Distribution Planner.
- Import and Export Administrator.
Experience gained through this programme can help learners pursue long-term careers in these areas.
Benefits of Joining the Programme
Practical Workplace Experience
Many employers prefer candidates who already have workplace experience.
This programme helps bridge the gap between education and employment.
Professional Development
Learners will develop important workplace competencies such as:
- Business communication.
- Workplace etiquette.
- Customer service.
- Professional conduct.
Industry Exposure
Participants will gain insight into:
- Global trade.
- Logistics operations.
- Supply chain management.
- International business practices.
Improved Employability
Completing a learnership demonstrates:
- Commitment.
- Reliability.
- Work readiness.
These qualities can significantly strengthen future job applications.
Programme Locations
Successful candidates may be placed in one of the following cities:
Johannesburg
Johannesburg offers exposure to major commercial and logistics operations within South Africa’s economic hub.
Durban
Durban is home to one of Africa’s busiest ports, providing valuable exposure to shipping and logistics activities.
Cape Town
Cape Town offers opportunities within a major international trade and logistics environment.
Applicants should apply for locations where they are willing and able to work.
How to Prepare a Strong Application
To improve your chances of success:
Update Your CV
Ensure your CV includes:
- Personal details.
- Educational qualifications.
- Computer skills.
- Volunteer experience.
- Leadership activities.
- References.
Prepare Supporting Documents
Applicants should have the following ready:
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Certified Matric certificate.
- Updated CV.
- Academic transcripts, where applicable.
Highlight Transferable Skills
If you have no previous work experience, include:
- School leadership positions.
- Community involvement.
- Volunteer work.
- Sports participation.
- Computer literacy skills.
Apply Early
Submitting your application early can help avoid technical problems and ensure your application receives attention.
Accommodation During Recruitment
Applicants who require reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process may contact:
Email: accommodationrequests@maersk.com
How to Apply
Interested applicants should apply online through the official Maersk careers platform for their preferred location.
APPLY FOR THE MAERSK YES LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME 2026/2027 INTAKE IN JOBURG
APPLY FOR THE MAERSK YES LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME 2026/2027 INTAKE IN DURBAN
APPLY FOR THE MAERSK YES LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME 2026/2027 INTAKE IN CAPE TOWN
Before submitting your application, ensure that:
- All information is accurate.
- Your contact details are correct.
- All required documents are attached.
- You meet the eligibility requirements.
Important Notes
Applicants should note the following:
- Only South African citizens may apply.
- Applicants must be unemployed.
- Previous YES Programme participants are not eligible.
- Applicants must have less than two years of work experience.
- The programme duration is 12 months.
- The application closing date has not been specified.
Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
The Maersk YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027 presents an excellent opportunity for unemployed South African youth to gain valuable workplace experience within a globally recognised logistics company.
Young people interested in logistics, administration, customer service, operations, and supply chain management are encouraged to submit their applications and take advantage of this opportunity to build a strong foundation for their future careers.