Delta is celebrating five years of its successful intern program in Africa. The program helps young people from underprivileged backgrounds acquire the skills they need to get ahead in business through a year-long internship with Delta in its sales offices in Lagos, Nigeria; Accra, Ghana; Dakar, Senegal; and Nairobi, Kenya.

“It’s often difficult for graduates to get a break in the corporate world so offering opportunities like our intern program can give them a real step up the ladder as well as learn about the complex nature of working for a global company,” said Bobby Bryan, Sales Manager – East and West Africa. “Some of our past interns have gone on to gain executive jobs in the public and private sectors. I’m very proud of their achievements and am pleased Delta has been able to play a part in their success.”

The program underscores Delta’s commitment to Africa where the airline offers nonstop flights four destinations – Accra, Ghana; Dakar, Senegal; Johannesburg, South Africa; and Lagos, Nigeria. Delta also has a number of offline sales offices, which capitalize on connecting flight opportunities offered by our joint venture partners Air France and KLM in countries including Kenya and Uganda.

Of the 19 people who have completed the program, two are still employed at Delta and the rest have gone on to find managerial positions in a range of industries, become teachers or are furthering their studies.

“When I started as an intern, I never thought I would have the opportunity to work for Delta after my contract ended,” said Mumbe Muthama, a former intern and now Sales Executive in Nairobi. “I learnt a lot during the internship, which has helped me in my career at Delta, such as relationship management, client servicing and sales promotion skills. I feel privileged and proud to still be here three years later.”

This December, Delta will celebrate 10 years of flying to Africa with events in Ghana, Senegal and South Africa.