Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme 2026: W&R SETA-Funded Opportunity for Degree, Diploma and TVET Graduates

Apply for the Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme 2026, a W&R SETA-funded work-integrated learning opportunity for graduates and TVET students seeking valuable workplace experience in retail, business, HR, IT, finance, logistics, and more.

Young graduates looking to gain meaningful workplace experience now have an exciting opportunity to kick-start their careers through the Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme 2026. Funded by the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&R SETA), this structured work-integrated learning programme aims to equip unemployed graduates and TVET students with practical industry experience while supporting their long-term career development.

As one of South Africa’s largest wholesale and retail groups, Pepkor Lifestyle continues to invest in developing future talent through workplace learning initiatives that bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world business experience.

An Opportunity Designed for Career Growth

The programme offers successful candidates the chance to work within a dynamic retail environment while receiving guidance and mentorship from experienced professionals. Graduates will participate in a structured workplace learning experience lasting 12 months, while TVET graduates requiring practical exposure to complete their qualifications will participate in an 18-month programme.

The initiative reflects Pepkor Lifestyle’s commitment to youth empowerment and skills development by creating pathways for talented young South Africans to gain industry exposure and build professional networks.

Participants will not only develop technical knowledge within their fields of study but also gain valuable workplace competencies such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and leadership.

Fields of Study Eligible for the Programme

Pepkor Lifestyle is seeking applications from graduates and TVET learners who have completed qualifications in a range of disciplines, including:

• Business Management
• Business Administration
• Human Resource Management
• Industrial Psychology
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
• BCom Law
• BCom Risk Management
• BCom Financial Management
• Software Engineering
• Logistics and Supply Chain Management (N6)
• IT Project Administration
• Project Management
• Information Systems
• Business Information Technology (N6)

The programme accommodates both graduates from higher education institutions and TVET colleges who require practical workplace exposure to complete their qualifications.

What Participants Can Expect

Successful candidates will become part of a large professional network within Pepkor Lifestyle. Throughout the programme, they will receive support from experienced leaders and subject matter experts who will help them navigate the workplace and develop professionally.

Participants will have opportunities to:

• Gain hands-on experience in a leading retail organization.
• Learn from experienced professionals and industry leaders.
• Participate in onboarding and induction programmes.
• Build professional and interpersonal skills.
• Work on real business projects.
• Develop an understanding of retail operations and corporate functions.
• Explore potential long-term career opportunities within the organization.

The programme is designed to provide meaningful exposure rather than observation alone. Graduates will be actively involved in workplace activities that contribute to business objectives and organizational success.

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Key Responsibilities During the Programme

Participants will be expected to engage fully in all aspects of the learning experience. Some of the responsibilities include:

Attending Training and Induction Programmes

Graduates will participate in onboarding sessions designed to introduce them to the organization, its culture, policies, and business operations.

Supporting Business Functions

Under the supervision of experienced employees, participants will perform assigned duties and contribute to projects across different departments.

Conducting Research

Graduates may be required to research emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices that can help improve business performance and operational efficiency.

Store and Site Visits

To gain practical understanding of the retail environment, participants may visit different business locations and stores, allowing them to observe operations firsthand and understand customer-facing processes.

Delivering Presentations

Candidates may be required to prepare and deliver presentations as part of their learning and performance assessment process. This provides valuable opportunities to strengthen public speaking and communication skills.

Assisting with Business Objectives

Participants will contribute to projects and additional responsibilities that support organizational goals while gaining practical exposure in their respective fields.

Skills and Competencies Pepkor Lifestyle Values

Beyond academic qualifications, Pepkor Lifestyle is looking for individuals who demonstrate the qualities needed to succeed in a fast-paced business environment.

Desired competencies include:

• Ability to learn quickly
• Strong initiative
• Adaptability and resilience
• Critical thinking and sound judgement
• Ability to work independently and within teams
• Strong relationship-building skills
• Professional work ethic
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Good presentation skills
• Customer service orientation

These attributes are essential for graduates seeking to maximize the benefits of the programme and establish themselves as future professionals.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a relevant qualification from an accredited university, college, or tertiary institution.
• Be currently unemployed.
• Be a South African citizen.
• Possess a valid South African ID document.
• Be younger than 32 years of age.
• Candidates with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
• Candidates without disabilities are also welcome to apply.

The programme promotes equal opportunity and seeks to create an inclusive environment where talented individuals from diverse backgrounds can thrive.

Required Application Documents

Applicants are advised to prepare all supporting documents before submitting their applications.

Required documents include:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified copies of academic qualifications
• Certified academic transcripts or tertiary results

All certified documents must be no older than three months at the time of application.

Pepkor Lifestyle has emphasized that candidates who successfully submit all required documentation will receive first consideration during the selection process.

Why This Programme Matters

For many graduates, securing the first opportunity after completing studies can be one of the most challenging stages of a professional journey. Employers increasingly seek candidates with practical experience, making work-integrated learning programmes like this one highly valuable.

The Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme offers participants a chance to gain practical skills, strengthen professional confidence, and build networks that can support future career advancement. Through exposure to one of South Africa’s leading retail groups, graduates can gain insights into corporate operations while positioning themselves for future employment opportunities.

For ambitious young professionals seeking to transform their qualifications into practical workplace expertise, this programme represents an important stepping stone toward a successful and rewarding career.

Applications close on 30 June 2026, and interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline to maximize their chances of consideration.

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