Y FM Academy Internship 2026 — Apply Now and Break Into Radio

If you have ever dreamed of working in radio or media, this is one of the most credible doors into the industry in South Africa right now. Y FM, the country's biggest youth commercial radio station, has opened applications for its 2026 Y Academy Internship Programme — a 9 to 12 month hands-on programme based in Johannesburg North.

The programme places interns inside the actual business, rotating through departments like Programming, Sales, Marketing, Digital Content, Technical and Music. You are not making coffee. You are learning how a major radio station runs from the inside.

Departments You Will Rotate Through

The programme gives you exposure across the full operation of a commercial radio station:

What You Will Learn

This is not a passive programme. You will be involved in real work across every department you rotate through. Key learning areas include:

• Radio as a medium and art form, its history and where it is headed
• How new media and digital platforms are changing the broadcast industry
• Personal branding and why it matters at every level of media
• Creating content and supporting digital and marketing teams on and off location
• How each department contributes to what goes on air every day
• Practical tasks, in-house lectures from industry specialists and department projects

Who Can Apply

The requirements are straightforward but firm:

• Must hold a National Diploma or qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher
• Must not currently be participating in any SETA-funded internship programme

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by a panel of industry professionals. This is your chance to show your personality, creativity and genuine passion for media — not just your qualifications on paper.

Why This Internship Is Worth Applying For

Y FM reaches millions of young South Africans every day. Getting inside the operation — even for 9 months — gives you industry contacts, real work experience and a story to tell in every job interview that follows. Media is a relationship-driven industry and this programme puts you in the room where those relationships are built.

Applications are open now. There is no advertised closing date but programmes like this fill quickly once shortlisting begins. Get your application in as soon as possible.