Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme 2026 (W&R SETA Funded) – Degree, Diploma & TVET Opportunities

Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme 2026

Graduate Programme Overview

Company: Pepkor Lifestyle
Division: Pepkor Lifestyle Corporate – Group Human Resources
Programme Type: Graduate Programme / Work Integrated Learning
Location: Sandton, Gauteng, South Africa
Duration: 12 Months (Graduates) | 18 Months (TVET Work Integrated Learning)
Funding: Wholesale & Retail SETA (W&R SETA)
Closing Date: 30 June 2026

Pepkor Lifestyle has opened applications for its 2026 Graduate Programme, providing structured workplace experience for unemployed South African graduates and TVET students. This W&R SETA-funded programme offers participants valuable practical exposure, mentorship, professional development, and career growth opportunities within one of South Africa’s largest retail and wholesale groups.

The programme aims to equip young professionals with workplace skills, industry knowledge, and hands-on experience that improve employability and future career prospects.

Available Qualifications

Applications are invited from graduates and TVET students with qualifications in:

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

TVET College and Higher Education graduates requiring workplace experience to complete their qualifications are encouraged to apply.

What the Programme Offers

Successful candidates will benefit from:

• W&R SETA-funded workplace experience
• Structured practical training
• Exposure to leading retail operations
• Professional mentorship and coaching
• Career development opportunities
• Industry experience across business functions
• Networking opportunities with experienced professionals
• Access to workplace projects and resources
• Real-world business exposure
• Enhanced employability skills

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be a South African citizen
• Possess a valid South African ID document
• Be unemployed at the time of application
• Be younger than 32 years old
• Hold a relevant Degree, Diploma, or N6 qualification
• Have completed studies at an accredited institution
• Be willing to participate fully in the programme
• Have strong communication skills
• Be able to work independently and within teams
• Demonstrate professionalism and a positive attitude
• Candidates living with disabilities are encouraged to apply

How to Apply for the Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme 2026

Interested candidates must submit their applications online through the official Pepkor Lifestyle careers portal before the closing date.

Application Closing Date: 30 June 2026

Official Application Website

Apply online here:

Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme Application Portal

Documents Required

Applicants should prepare the following certified documents (not older than 3 months):

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified copies of qualifications or certificates
• Academic transcript or tertiary results
• Proof of disability (if applicable)

Application Process

1. Visit the official application portal.
2. Create an online profile or log in to your existing account.
3. Complete all required personal and educational information.
4. Upload all supporting documents.
5. Review your application carefully.
6. Submit your application before the closing date.

Important Notes

• Applicants must be South African citizens with a valid South African ID.
• Candidates must be unemployed at the time of application.
• Applicants must be younger than 32 years old.
• Graduates from universities, universities of technology, TVET colleges, and other accredited institutions are encouraged to apply.
• Candidates with disabilities are welcome to apply.
• Incomplete applications or missing documents may not be considered.

Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for assessments, interviews, or further screening processes. Only candidates who successfully submit all required documents will receive priority consideration.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early to avoid website congestion or technical issues near the closing date.

Required Competencies

Pepkor Lifestyle seeks candidates who demonstrate:

• Strong learning ability
• Adaptability and resilience
• Initiative and self-motivation
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Good interpersonal skills
• Professional work ethic
• Effective communication skills
• Customer service orientation
• Time management skills
• Attention to detail

Duties and Responsibilities

Participants will gain workplace experience through:

• Attending onboarding and induction programmes
• Participating in departmental training activities
• Assisting senior staff with daily operations
• Conducting research and compiling reports
• Analysing business trends and best practices
• Supporting various business projects
• Visiting stores and operational sites
• Preparing and delivering presentations
• Completing assigned administrative duties
• Collaborating with different departments
• Contributing to organisational objectives
• Participating in professional development activities

Documents Required

Applicants must submit:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Certified South African ID copy (not older than 3 months)
• Certified qualification certificates
• Academic transcripts or tertiary results
• Supporting documents where applicable

Applications with complete documentation will receive priority consideration.

Why Apply for the Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme?

This programme provides valuable workplace exposure within a leading South African retail organisation. Participants gain practical experience, develop professional skills, and build industry networks while working alongside experienced professionals.

Graduates often struggle to secure employment due to limited workplace experience. Programmes such as this bridge the gap between academic qualifications and industry requirements by providing practical exposure in a structured learning environment.

Useful External Resources

• W&R SETA: https://www.wrseta.org.za
• SA Youth Opportunities: https://www.sayouth.mobi
• Department of Employment and Labour: https://www.labour.gov.za
• National Career Advice Portal: https://ncap.careerhelp.org.za
• South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA): https://www.saqa.org.za
• Careers Portal: https://www.careersportal.co.za

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme paid?

The programme is W&R SETA funded. Applicants should refer to the official vacancy for stipend information.

2. Can TVET graduates apply?

Yes. TVET graduates requiring workplace experience for qualification completion are encouraged to apply.

3. What is the duration of the programme?

Graduates participate for 12 months, while TVET learners complete an 18-month work-integrated learning programme.

4. Is the programme open to people with disabilities?

Yes. Candidates with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

5. What is the age requirement?

Applicants must be younger than 32 years old.

6. Where is the programme located?

The programme is based in Sandton, Gauteng, South Africa.

7. When do applications close?

Applications close on 30 June 2026.

Final Thoughts

The Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme 2026 presents an excellent opportunity for unemployed South African graduates and TVET students to gain valuable workplace experience through a W&R SETA-funded initiative. With exposure to business operations, professional mentorship, practical training, and career development opportunities, successful candidates can strengthen their skills and improve their chances of securing long-term employment.

Interested applicants should prepare all required documents and submit their applications before the 30 June 2026 closing date.

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