Marriott International has opened applications for its 2026 Youth Trainee Programmes, offering young South Africans an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the global hospitality industry.
Location : South Africa
Closing Date: Not specified
Through its well-known Accelerate Programmes, Marriott aims to develop future hospitality professionals by combining workplace learning with structured development.
Marriott International Accelerate Programmes Explained
Marriott International is offering two development programmes for eligible youth:
1. Accelerate Orientation Trainee Programme (1 Year)
The Accelerate Orientation Trainee Programme is a one-year programme designed to give candidates practical working experience in a hotel environment.
This programme allows participants to:
- Gain real-world exposure to the hospitality industry
- Understand the demands and expectations of hotel operations
- Evaluate their career suitability before committing long-term
⚠️ Important: Completion of the Orientation Programme is a prerequisite for entry into the 3-year Accelerate Programme.
2. Accelerate Programme (3 Years)
The 3-year Accelerate Programme is a structured youth development programme focused on:
- Hospitality Management, or
- Professional Cookery
This programme combines:
- Practical workplace training
- Formal academic development
- Long-term career preparation in hospitality
It is specifically designed for South African youth and aims to increase skills, participation, and long-term employment in the fast-growing hospitality sector.
Who Should Apply?
The Marriott Accelerate Programmes are ideal for young people who:
- Are passionate about hospitality and service
- Want hands-on experience rather than classroom-only learning
- Are looking to build a long-term career in hotels, tourism, or food services
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen by birth
- Must be between 18 and 22 years old
- Applicants must not turn older than 22 in the year of application
- Must have a Matric (Grade 12) certificate or equivalent
- Must have passed all 7 Matric subjects
- Preferably with 50% or higher per subject
- Applicants who do not fully meet Matric requirements may be considered on a case-by-case basis
- Must not have any post-Matric qualifications
- This includes NQF Level 4 or NCV Level 4 qualifications
Why Choose the Marriott Accelerate Programme?
- Gain experience with a globally recognised hotel brand
- Receive structured mentorship and skills development
- Build a strong foundation for a career in hospitality or professional cookery
- Improve employability within South Africa and internationally
How to Apply
NB. Use the links below to Apply
Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng
Location: Cape Town, Tyger Valley
Accelerate Orientation Management Trainee – Protea Hotel by Marriott Tyger Valley
Location: Cape Town, Waterfront
Accelerate Orientation Management Trainee – Protea Hotel by Marriott Tyger Valley
Location: George WC, South Africa
Accelerate Orientation Management Trainee – Protea Hotel by Marriott George King George
Location: AC Hotel Cape Town Waterfront
Accelerate Orientation Management Trainee – AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront
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