Here’s Everything You Need to KnowIf you’ve just finished a diploma or degree and you’re trying to break into advertising, marketing, or the creative industry, this one’s worth your attention. Publicis Groupe Africa has opened applications for Le Cubs 2026, a 12-month paid internship programme based in Johannesburg.
Here’s a breakdown of what the role involves, who it’s for, and how to apply — plus a few tips to help your application stand out.
What Is Le Cubs 2026?
Le Cubs is Publicis Groupe South Africa’s internship programme, designed to give graduates and early-career talent real, hands-on experience inside a working agency. Instead of sitting on the sidelines, interns are placed directly into agency teams — creative, project management, finance, production, and out-of-home (OOH) — where they get exposure to actual client work, campaigns, and day-to-day agency processes.
The programme runs for 12 months, based in Johannesburg, and starts on 1 September 2026.
Who Should Apply?
You don’t need years of experience — this is built for people just starting out.
You’re a strong fit if you:
- Have completed a relevant 3-year degree or diploma
- Are comfortable with Microsoft Office or similar tools
- Communicate clearly, both written and verbal
- Can commit to the full 12 months in Johannesburg from September 2026
- Are curious, coachable, and genuinely interested in advertising, marketing, or communications
Publicis is also clear about the kind of person who thrives in this environment: organised, reliable, open to feedback, and willing to take initiative — even without a lot of prior experience.
Which Roles Are Available?
Le Cubs isn’t one-size-fits-all.
There are several intern tracks depending on your background:
Roles & Relevant Field of Study
Creative Designer / Art Director / Multimedia
DesignerGraphic design, multimedia design, visual communication, art direction, digital design
Project Manager
Marketing, communications, project management, business administrationFinance InternFinance, accounting, commerce, business science
OOH Intern
Marketing, media, advertising, communications, operations
What You’ll Actually Learn
Beyond the job title, the programme is built around real skill-building. Interns can expect to pick up:
- Practical experience inside a professional agency environment
- An understanding of how creative, project management, production, finance, and OOH teams work together
- Communication, prioritisation, and problem-solving skills
- Exposure to agency tools, client work, and campaign delivery
- How to take feedback constructively and build workplace confidence
- Mentorship from experienced professionals
What’s on Offer
- A 12-month internship based in Johannesburg
- Hands-on exposure to real agency work
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced team members
- A monthly stipend (amount to be confirmed by Talent Acquisition)
- A diverse, inclusive, and collaborative work environment
Documents You’ll Need to Apply
Before you start your application, get these ready:
- Updated CV or résumé
- Certified copy of your ID (if required)Certified copy of your Matric certificate (certified within the last 3 months)
- Academic transcript or latest results
- Certified copy of your completed qualification certificate
- A short motivation/cover letter stating your role of interest and why you want to join
- Portfolio or work samples (for creative, design, art direction, or multimedia roles)
How to Apply
Submit your application through Publicis’s official application channel, clearly stating which role you’re applying for — for example, “Creative Designer Intern” or “Project Manager Intern” — either in the subject line or on the application form itself.
Applications close on 16 August 2026.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage, so make sure your CV and portfolio (if applicable) are polished before you submit.
Final Thought
Internships like this one are hard to come by — a full year inside a major agency network, with real mentorship and exposure to actual client work, is exactly the kind of foundation that can shape a career in marketing or creative industries. If you meet the requirements, don’t sit on this one. Get your documents in order and apply before the 16 August deadline.