Your Pathway to Professional Success
Are you a recent graduate or tertiary student who is disabled, living with health conditions or neurodivergent and ready to launch your career? The Mainstream Internship Programme provides paid professional placements in your field of study, backed by specialist employment support designed to help you thrive in the workplace.
What You’ll Gain
We partner with you to develop a customised employment plan that leverages your strengths, addresses workplace barriers, and positions you for professional success.
Paid Professional Experience
4–12 week placements aligned with your field of study (part-time to full-time hours)
Specialist Employment Support
Expert guidance to navigate workplace environments and maximize your performance
Professional Development
Build the capabilities and networks that drive career success
Strategic Career Planning
Develop workplace strategies that position you for long-term success
Nationwide Access
Opportunities across New Zealand in diverse sectors
Programme Eligibility
Essential Requirements:
- You are disabled, neurodivergent, or live with a health condition (including mental health conditions)
- You are in your final two years of tertiary study OR completed your qualification within the last 12 months
- You are eligible to work in New Zealand
- You can commit to the agreed internship hours
What We’re Looking For:
- Work-readiness and commitment to professional standards
- Strong motivation and dedication to succeed
- Willingness to work hard and embrace challenges
- Drive to develop your professional capabilities
- Positive attitude and receptiveness to feedback
Your Path Forward: 6 Steps to Launch
Apply Online
Submit your application, CV, and career objectives
Connect With Our Team
Discuss your qualifications, goals, and support needs
Build Your Strategy
Refine your professional profile and workplace approach
Get Matched
We connect you with employers seeking your expertise
Showcase Your Skills
Interview with employers who align with your career goals
Start Your Placement
Begin your paid internship backed by specialist support
Expertise That Works for You
At Propel, we recognise that successful workplace inclusion requires tailored approaches. Our team brings specialist expertise in working with disabled people across the full spectrum of disability, including:
- Physical disabilities
- Neurodivergence – including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, and Tourette’s syndrome
- Mental health experiences – including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress
- Sensory disabilities
- Long-term health conditions
We partner with you to develop a customised employment plan that leverages your strengths, addresses workplace barriers, and positions you for professional success.
Ready to Launch Your Career?
Applications closing soon for summer and early 2026 placements.