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These internships are part of the MBDA’s local contribution to development, tackling the urgent issue of youth unemployment by equipping young people with practical skills and meaningful workplace experience. According to Statistics South Africa’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey, the unemployment rate among Sout African youth stands at 46.1%, with the 15 to 24 age group facing an even more alarming 62.4%.
"By hosting interns, we’re not only transferring skills but also helping young people build confidence and purpose," says MBDA CEO, Mr Anele Qaba. "South Africa cannot thrive if its youth are left behind. Opportunities like this reflect the important role that municipal agencies can play in supporting development and transformation by empowering young people. The act of mentoring also helps the MBDA team build a learning-oriented organisational culture.”
The interns are developing crucial technical and interpersonal skills while learning about the Agency’s daily operations.

“I am here to gain skills,” shared one intern working under the Human Resources team. “I have learned how to communicate with colleagues and collaborate to achieve common goals. I’ve also learned technical skills, like how to use Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook. Thank you MBDA for giving me this experience in my life!”
In Human Resources, interns are gaining exposure to recruitment and digital systems, while those in Finance are mastering budgeting and procurement processes. Interns assigned to Facilities and IT at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium are learning how to operate electronic systems and manage events, from setup to sound, helping ensure smooth operations for supporters and guests. “What I’ve enjoyed the most is entertaining the supporters with music via the stadium electronic systems,” said one stadium-based intern. “I didn’t know how to do filing,” said another, “but now I have acquired the skill set.”

By welcoming the interns into real operational environments, the Agency ensures they leave with more than just knowledge - they leave with confidence and experience.
This Youth Day, the MBDA celebrates not just the legacy of 1976, but the promise of 2025 that is reflected in the faces and efforts of its interns. “These young professionals represent what’s possible when institutions invest in potential,” Qaba reflects. “As the MBDA we proudly acknowledge the role our workplace can play in changing the trajectory of a young person’s life. It is through such partnerships, between mentors and mentees, and between institutions and individuals, that South Africa’s future is built.”