City of Joburg 2026 Graphic Design Learnership & Internship Programme: Apply Now for the 2025–2027 Intake
The City of Johannesburg has opened applications for its highly anticipated Marketing and Events Graphic Design Internship Programme for the 2025–2027 cycle. This opportunity is designed for young, ambitious, and creative individuals who want to build a professional career in visual communication, branding, and digital storytelling within South Africa’s biggest metropolitan municipality.
City of Joburg 2026 Learnership & Graphic Design Internship: Applications Open Now
The City of Johannesburg is inviting talented young designers to apply for its 2026 Learning Skills Programme under the Marketing and Events Graphic Design Internship. This programme offers a rare opportunity to work directly with the city’s Strategic Communications team, helping shape Johannesburg’s visual identity across digital and print platforms.
If you are passionate about design, branding, municipal storytelling, content creation and visual innovation, this programme is built for you.
About the City of Johannesburg
The City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality is South Africa’s largest economic hub and a leading centre for innovation, business, culture, tourism, and creative industries. Through its Communications and Stakeholder Management Unit, the City aims to improve transparent governance, strengthen community engagement, and enhance communication across all municipal structures.
The Graphic Design Internship is part of Johannesburg’s long-term commitment to empowering young creatives in the public sector, ensuring they gain practical skills, industry exposure, and a solid professional foundation.
Programme Overview: What the Internship Offers
Successful candidates will join the Strategic Communications team, contributing to:
- City branding and visual identity
- Marketing and promotional materials
- Digital campaigns across City departments
- Social media content creation
- Multimedia and animation projects
- Infographics and layout development
- Creative storytelling for municipal services
The internship provides hands-on, industry-level experience aimed at helping young designers build a competitive portfolio while developing essential workplace skills.
What You Will Learn
Interns will gain practical experience in:
1. Graphic Design for Digital and Print
From brochures and posters to website banners and corporate reports.
2. Social Media Visual Design
Creating engaging visuals for Facebook, X, Instagram, and other platforms.
3. Branding and Visual Identity
Understanding how to maintain brand consistency across municipal platforms.
4. Multimedia and Animation
Working with animation tools such as Adobe After Effects or Toon Boom.
5. Concept Development and Layout Design
Transforming ideas into professionally designed visuals.
6. Working with Key Municipal Stakeholders
Such as:
- Group Finance
- Treasury
- Supply Chain Management
- Revenue Shared Services
- Group Property
- Group Accounting
This exposure provides real-world experience in corporate and public-sector communication.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify, applicants must have:
- Grade 12 / Matric
- A National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in:
- Graphic Design
- Computer Graphics
- Visual Arts
- Marketing
- Web Design
- Or a related creative discipline
Required Technical Skills
Applicants should be familiar with:
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe InDesign
- Adobe After Effects
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- Toon Boom (advantageous)
Applicants must be residents of the City of Johannesburg.
Primary Role & Responsibilities
The intern will support the Communications and Stakeholder Management Unit by:
- Producing high-quality graphic design materials
- Developing visual concepts and layout designs
- Creating digital and print content for City departments
- Designing infographics, illustrations, and multimedia elements
- Managing design projects from concept to completion
- Ensuring brand consistency across all platforms
- Assisting internal departments with communication materials
Key Learning Areas
During the programme, interns will also learn:
- Creative design strategy development
- Digital communication management
- Reviewing design effectiveness and communication impact
- Researching visual communication trends
- Creating professional content suitable for government communication
Leading Competencies Required
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent computer literacy
- Attention to detail
- Good organisational and planning abilities
- Creative thinking and problem-solving skills
- Emotional intelligence
- Basic content-creation and writing ability
- Strong concept development skills
- Graphic and web design capabilities
- Analytical and data-driven thinking
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the official link:
Apply Here:
https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1GDjMi7udQrG6CzvOVpemlQew554
Enquiries:
Thabiso Nkosi – (011) 021 5802
Closing Date: 27 November 2025
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Why This Programme Matters
The City of Johannesburg continues to invest in young creative talent to strengthen municipal communication, improve service delivery awareness, and contribute to a visually compelling city narrative. This internship not only equips youth with professional skills but also opens doors to future employment in government, media, advertising, corporate design, or digital content creation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the 2026 Graphic Design Internship?
Youth residing within the City of Johannesburg who possess a relevant NQF Level 6 qualification in graphic design or a related field.
2. Is this a paid internship?
Yes. The City provides a monthly stipend as part of its youth development initiatives (stipend amount typically communicated during interviews or in official notices).
3. How long is the programme?
The programme runs for the 2025–2027 cycle, offering extended training and workplace experience.
4. Can applicants without Adobe experience apply?
Basic to strong Adobe Suite proficiency is required, especially Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
5. Can I apply if I’m studying part-time?
Applicants must be available for full-time participation for the duration of the programme.
6. Will I work with multiple departments?
Yes. Interns collaborate with Group Finance and various other strategic units across the municipality.
Final Thoughts
The City of Joburg 2026 Graphic Design Learning Skills Programme is a powerful stepping stone for young creatives seeking real-world design experience within a professional and meaningful public-sector environment. With hands-on training, portfolio-building opportunities, and exposure to major municipal communication platforms, this internship sets the foundation for a rewarding career in creative communication.
