Have you ever dreamed of reporting on big stories while weaving through Johannesburg’s traffic? If so, you’re in for an exciting opportunity! The Daily Maverick Journalism Intern 2026 program is now accepting applications. This isn’t just a basic introduction to journalism; it’s a chance to get your hands dirty in a busy newsroom.
Make sure to apply before the deadline of 26 February 2026. The Johannesburg Bureau is looking for four interns for a challenging 12-week residency. The calling is straightforward: you’ll be doing real journalist work, not simply watching from the sidelines.
What Makes This Internship Unique
Many internships say they’ll give you “exposure.” The Daily Maverick takes it further, promising real immersion in the media world.
This internship doesn’t involve fetching coffee. Instead, you’ll be right there, contributing to stories that matter in South Africa’s cultural and economic hub.
And Johannesburg isn’t an easy place to report from. It’s a city full of contrasts, where wealth meets hardship, and politics intersects with daily life. Reporting here means you need to handle complex situations—like local politics, business issues, and breaking news.
For those aspiring to be journalists, this is both an exciting and demanding environment!
Who Should Apply
Here are the basic requirements:
- Education: An Honours Degree or a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism.
- Location: Must be based in Johannesburg.
- Language: Excellent command of English is needed.
- Advantage: Knowing isiZulu, Sesotho, or Afrikaans is a plus.
- Preferred: A valid South African driver’s license and a reliable vehicle.
But it goes deeper than just what’s on paper. This internship is perfect for someone who knows Johannesburg well—beyond just headlines. You should be comfortable moving between formal interviews and casual conversations.
While academic achievements are important, the program is looking for “street-smarts” as well. It’s about more than just grades; you need to thrive in a fast-paced newsroom.
What to Expect as an Intern
Every newsroom operates uniquely, but here’s what your daily tasks are likely to include:
- Conducting primary research.
- On-the-ground reporting.
- Helping with news coverage.
- Writing articles and features.
- Creating social media content.
- Building a network of sources.
Be ready for tight deadlines and direct feedback. High-pressure environments require you to stay clear and accurate, even when things are moving fast.
Your day might look like this: attending a municipal briefing in the morning, spending the afternoon verifying sources, and rewriting a piece at night with your editor’s feedback.
Don’t forget the digital aspect! You’ll learn how to share stories in many formats, not just in written articles but also across social media and multimedia platforms.
Understanding the Pressure
Many first-time interns are surprised by the emotional demands of the job. It’s not just the workload that can be overwhelming; it’s also the unpredictability of stories.
Sometimes leads fall apart, sources stop responding, and facts don’t align. You might spend countless hours chasing a story only for it to fall through at the last moment. You could publish a piece and face public criticism or tackle sensitive subjects like trauma or inequality.
Resilience is key here. Daily Maverick wants to see energy, focus, and a readiness for digital storytelling. They are hiring not just potential but durability.
Before You Apply, Reflect on This
Before you send in your application, ask yourself these questions:
- Are you comfortable with change and last-minute adjustments?
- Can you accept constructive feedback without losing your confidence?
- Do you enjoy research, verification, and rewriting?
- Are you genuinely interested in the realities of Johannesburg, not just its surface?
This internship isn’t for someone looking for a predictable nine-to-five routine. It’s meant for those who thrive in complexity and storytelling that impacts the public.
Remember, It’s Not a Guarantee
Even at a respected publication, remember that an internship isn’t a guarantee of a full-time job. It can open doors and teach you valuable skills, but journalism is competitive and can be financially uncertain. Many interns find themselves working as freelancers or building portfolios after or during their internships.
While there may be some uncertainty, that doesn’t lessen the value of this opportunity. It’s important to keep your expectations grounded!
Closing Date: 26 February 2026
Apply for the Daily Maverick Journalism Intern 2026 here!
FAQs About the Daily Maverick Journalism Internship 2026
How long is the internship?
It lasts for 12 weeks in a residency format.
What qualification is required?
You need a recently completed Honours Degree or Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism.
Is multilingualism required?
No, but knowledge of isiZulu, Sesotho, or Afrikaans is a big advantage.
Do I need a driver’s license?
A driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle is highly preferred.
Is this a typical “intern observer” role?
No, this role focuses on active reporting, research, and writing.
Will this guarantee a permanent job?
Unfortunately, no internship can guarantee that. It offers experience but not job security.
If you’re a journalism graduate who thrives on challenges and is curious about the exciting and unpredictable world of Johannesburg, the Daily Maverick Journalism Intern 2026 could be a wonderful opportunity for you.
