Deadline: April 20, 2026

Applications are open for the McKinsey Forward Program 2026. McKinsey.org Forward is a free ten-week learning program designed to equip individuals at different stages of their careers – from career starters to job changers – with practical skills to succeed in the future of work.

Whether you are in the early days of your career or navigating a new opportunity, the Forward learning journey will help you develop new ways of thinking, expand your skill set and grow your confidence. At the end of the program, you will receive a McKinsey.org Forward digital badge and join an exclusive global network of life-long learners.

Benefits

Gain the skills and tools to do the following:

• Turn business problems into opportunities by using structured and creative thinking.
• Communicate in a clear and impactful way that makes your audience take action.
• Identify opportunities to use digital and emerging AI-enabled solutions in responsible and impactful ways.
• Be adaptable and build emotional awareness for working in a team or alone, especially in times of change.
• Build strong relationships and maintain your well-being at work.
• Develop your digital tool kit and plan to navigate the modern digital world.

Eligibility

To access McKinsey.org Forward, you must meet the following criteria:

• Currently reside on the African continent (all countries)
• Are working or have prior work experience (including internships or apprenticeships), or are preparing to start work sometime in the next 12 months
• Have less than 5 years of total work experience**
• Have completed at least a high school education or equivalent (e.g., GED)
• Have a good command of English (the program is conducted in English)

**Applicants with more than 5 years of experience may still be eligible if they work in the nonprofit/NGO sector, a non-corporate setting, or in non-managerial roles.

Application

Ready to advance your career? Take a step Forward.

Click here to apply

For more information, visit McKinsey Forward Program.