- 15 Talented interns have graduated from our JumpStart Professional Retail Programme.
- We are building the retail industry by developing the next generation of creative young leaders.
- Applications are now open for the 2025 intake.
We took another proud step towards developing future retail leaders, when we celebrated the graduation of 15 talented interns from our 2024 JumpStart Professional Retail Programme on 2 December. Over 70% of the class of 2024 have already secured employment with Mr Price Group trading divisions.
Selected from over 700 applicants, the interns completed a comprehensive nine-month programme that combines classroom instruction, self-study, group projects, and hands-on work experience across various business functions.
The Foundation invested R1.8 million in this year’s programme, with R622,000 paid directly to interns as stipends. Overall, Mr Price Foundation has invested R120 million in JumpStart since 2013.
“We congratulate the class of 2024! We are immensely proud of their achievement and look forward to seeing them thrive in their careers in future,” said Mr Price Foundation Executive Director Octavius Phukubye.
“The industry requires new ways of thinking and talented young people who are passionate and excited about the career opportunities in retail. The benefit is a two-way street – our interns gain professional skills while employers benefit from their insights, creativity and fresh energy,” Octavius continued.
Three outstanding interns were recognised at the 2024 graduation for their exceptional performance. Selection is based on a combination of academic performance, attitude and their final Business Improvement Projects and reflect the dedication, commitment, flair and ambition of the interns in building successful careers in retail.
Luyanda Nkosi from Mtubatuba won the Cutting Edge Award, an accolade for the highest achiever with a consistently positive attitude. Mbalenhle Ngubane from Greytown received the Best Fit Award for securing second place overall and demonstrating a natural alignment with the retail industry. Lindelani Masondo from Pongola was honored with the Hang in There Award, for displaying enthusiasm and a determination to overcome challenges on the path to success.
“It was a rollercoaster ride! It was really hard and challenging and I am happy and grateful for the experience. I want to thrive and see a very bright future in retail,” Luyanda said.
JumpStart Programme Manager Yurissa Sawers highlighted the interns’ significant growth, noting their increased confidence, emotional intelligence, and the ability to produce high quality work.
In their final showcase, interns presented Business Improvement Projects that offered solutions to real-world retail challenges, demonstrating their ability to recognise and drive business operational efficiencies.
The programme is designed on a collaborative model that includes capable faculty, knowledgeable business experts and passionate leaders from Mr Price Group who act as mentors throughout the programme. For their five months’ work experience, the interns were hosted by Mr Price Group, Powerhouse Clothing, Ninian & Lester, Zentex, Alley Cat, ALC, Oh Two Printing, Seamless Technologies, Hedcor, Equator Belts, Headwear24, and Bata.
“To enable this level of professional and personal growth for the interns requires considerable investment from our work experience host partners. They are collectively part of this journey. We thank them for helping us nurture future talent,” said Yurissa.
Applications for the 2025 intake are open until 10 December 2024. Eligible applicants must be South African citizens aged 18 to 33, holding a diploma or degree (or completing their final year of study in 2024) in a retail-related field.
“I hope that more young people will apply and take advantage of the growth and future of the retail sector,” added Octavius.
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