Changing Lives Through Targeted Job Matching in South Africa
Overview
Prelude opens doors for high school students to intern at top employers, giving them real experience and career momentum.
Impact
98% of their students complete internships during the school year, more than doubling their odds of landing a job after college.
Students Land Competitive Internships Early
When most people think of internships, high school usually does not come to mind. Career exposure, hands-on experience, and the opportunity to start building professional networks often do not begin until college – if they happen at all. Prelude is changing that.
By supporting high school students in paid internship programs at top companies, Prelude is opening doors earlier. Students are gaining not just experience, but momentum toward meaningful careers, financial independence, and long-term opportunity.
More Than a First Job
Prelude students don’t have the average high school job. Students work 10 hours a week with major employers like Audible and immersed in high-demand fields like finance, technology, and logistics. They receive mentorship and training that builds key skills such as communication, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.
For many students, it’s their first paycheck and first step toward a professional career. That early exposure makes a lasting difference: 98% of Prelude students complete the program with strong workplace skills, while also gaining new confidence and a clearer sense of future career opportunities.
Isabella’s Prelude Internship Experience
Prelude gave Isabella, a high school senior from California, more than experience – it helped her gain direction and purpose.
During her internship with Audible, she deepened her interest in her computer science major and discovered new career paths in tech, like user experience design. “This internship not only improved my coding skills but also supported my journey toward a professional career,” said Isabella. “I picked up industry best practices, built connections with talented professionals, and developed my online presence on LinkedIn.”
Working alongside professionals, Isabella built real-world skills, formed lasting relationships with mentors, and saw what success looks like on the job. “This experience gave me a meaningful step toward my ultimate goal: working in tech and making a real digital impact,” she continued.
A Win for Everyone
Prelude is raising the bar for high school internships — giving students like Isabella meaningful early experience, while giving companies a way to invest in their communities and grow future-ready talent. It’s an opportunity to support the next generation and strengthen the local workforce, all before graduation.
