Hey future hospitality stars! 🌟 Ready to kickstart an amazing career journey with one of the world’s leading hotel brands? If you’ve been dreaming of working in vibrant hotels, developing top-notch skills, and getting paid to learn, then the Marriot International Youth Trainee Programmes 2026 might just be your golden ticket!
While not a traditional academic bursary, these programmes are your chance to gain invaluable experience, professional development, and a clear career path within the dynamic hospitality industry in South Africa. Think of it as a fully funded practical learning experience that sets you up for success!
Marriot International is opening its doors for ambitious young South Africans to join their incredible Youth Trainee Programmes for 2026. These programmes are specifically designed to nurture future leaders and specialists in the hospitality sector, focusing on youth employment, skills development, and transforming the industry. You’ll get hands-on experience and structured learning that’s better than just any old job – it’s a foundation for a real career!
There are two awesome pathways:
- Accelerate Orientation Trainee Programme: This is a one-year introductory programme that throws you right into hotel operations. It’s perfect for exploring different areas of hospitality, building confidence, and figuring out what you love. It also serves as your stepping stone to the longer Accelerate Programme!
- Accelerate Programme (3-Year Youth Development Programme): This is the big one! A three-year structured journey focusing on Hospitality Management or Professional Cookery. It blends academic learning with practical, real-world hotel experience. Marriot wants to create a new generation of pros ready to shine!
Who Can Apply?
Think you’ve got what it takes? Here’s what Marriot International is looking for:
- You must be a proud South African citizen by birth.
- Age check! You need to be between 18 and 22 years old (and not turn 23 during the application year).
- You must have a Matric (Grade 12) certificate or an equivalent qualification.
- Aim high! You should have passed all 7 Matric subjects, ideally with 50% or higher in each. (Don’t stress too much if your results are slightly lower; they might still consider you on a case-by-case basis!).
- Important: This programme is for fresh talent! You should NOT have any post-Matric / NQF 4 / NCV 4 qualifications yet.
What Does It Cover?
These programmes are all about investing in you and your future in hospitality! While they aren’t traditional bursaries that cover university fees, they provide something arguably even better: a fully immersive, paid learning and development experience directly within Marriot International hotels!
Through these programmes, you will receive:
- Extensive Practical Experience: Get hands-on training across various hotel operations.
- Structured Development: Follow a clear pathway in Hospitality Management or Professional Cookery.
- Leadership & Customer Service Skills: Develop essential soft and hard skills crucial for the industry.
- Mentorship & Support: Learn from experienced professionals in a global company.
- Career Pathway: A direct route to a sustainable career within Marriot International and the broader hospitality sector.
You’ll be working at amazing locations across South Africa, including Protea Hotels by Marriott and other Marriott-branded properties in:
- Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo, Midrand)
- Cape Town (Sea Point, Tyger Valley, Waterfront, Crystal Towers, Mowbray)
- George (King George)
- Mahikeng
How to Apply?
Ready to join the Marriot family? Applying is super straightforward!
You need to apply online through Marriot International’s official careers portal. Click on the specific links below for your preferred location to start your application:
Johannesburg, Gauteng:
Midrand, Gauteng:
Cape Town, Western Cape:
- Accelerate Orientation Management Trainee – Protea Hotel by Marriott Sea Point
- Accelerate Orientation Management Trainee – Protea Hotel by Marriott Tyger Valley
- Accelerate Orientation Management Trainee – Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers
- Accelerate Orientation Management Trainee – AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront
- Accelerate Orientation Management Trainee – Protea Hotel by Marriott Mowbray
George, Western Cape:
Mahikeng, North West:
Remember, the closing date is 31 December 2025, so make sure to get your application in before then!
If building a fantastic career in hospitality with a global leader like Marriot sounds like your dream come true, then don’t hesitate! These programmes offer unparalleled opportunities for growth and development. Apply now and take the first step towards a bright future. And while you’re at it, explore more amazing bursaries and opportunities right here on Bursaries Room!

