Explore practical ways Your Pathway to Youth Opportunities, learnerships, internships, and entrepreneurship support.
The Youth Employment Challenge in South Africa
Unemployment remains one of the biggest challenges facing South Africa, particularly for the youth. Every year, thousands of school leavers and graduates enter the job market with hopes of finding work—but not everyone knows where to start.
But here’s the good news: there are pathways to employment and skills development specifically designed for young people. Whether you’re just finishing high school, looking for work, or want to start your own business, there are government-backed programmes, private sector opportunities, and online platforms ready to support your growth.
This guide will walk you through how to tap into these opportunities and take charge of your future.
Understanding the Landscape: Youth Unemployment in Numbers
Before we dive into solutions, let’s understand the issue:
- Youth (ages 15–34) account for almost 60% of total unemployment in South Africa.
- Many young people lack formal work experience, which limits their chances.
- Others face challenges such as lack of access to transport, digital tools, or training.
This doesn’t mean there’s no hope—it means you need to be informed, strategic, and proactive about your journey to employment.
Your First Step: Knowing Where to Look
There are several platforms and programs tailored for young people. These aren’t just job boards—they are stepping stones to real economic participation.
1. SAYouth.mobi
This is a free government-backed platform where youth can register for:
- Learnerships
- Internships
- Volunteer roles
- Entry-level jobs
- Short training courses
You’ll get matched to opportunities near your location once you create a profile.
2. NYDA (National Youth Development Agency)
NYDA supports youth aged 14–35 with:
- Business development funding (for youth-owned start-ups)
- Mentorship
- Job placement programmes
- Skills development training
- Life-skills workshops
Visit any NYDA centre or their website to learn more about how to register.
3. SETA Learnerships
Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) fund learnerships, which allow you to work and study at the same time. You can earn a stipend while gaining a nationally recognised qualification.
Popular SETAs for youth:
- Services SETA (business, admin, HR)
- MICT SETA (media, IT, tech)
- AGRISETA (agriculture)
- CATHSSETA (tourism and hospitality)
4. YES (Youth Employment Service)
YES partners with private companies to give youth 12-month work experience placements.
How it works:
- You register on the YES platform
- You get matched with participating employers
- You gain real work experience to put on your CV
Skills Development: Building Yourself While You Wait
Even if you’re not yet employed, you can prepare by developing your skills. There are many free online courses and training resources aimed at helping youth grow.
Top free online platforms:
- Coursera (some courses free)
- Google Digital Skills for Africa
- FutureLearn
- LinkedIn Learning (with free trials)
- Microsoft Learn
- Alison
Courses include:
- CV writing
- Interview skills
- Computer literacy
- Customer service
- Project management
- Entrepreneurship
Learnerships: Earn While You Learn
Learnerships are an excellent way to enter the job market without prior experience. They are often paid and offer both theory and on-the-job training.
Key facts:
- Open to youth aged 18–35
- Requires a minimum of Grade 10 or Matric
- Duration: 12 to 24 months
- Upon completion, you receive an NQF qualification
Sectors offering learnerships:
- Business admin
- Call centres
- Information technology
- Retail
- Transport and logistics
- Construction
Internships: The Bridge Between Learning and Working
Internships are often offered to graduates or final-year students looking to gain hands-on experience in their field of study.
Places to find internships:
- Government departments (Home Affairs, Health, Education, etc.)
- Private companies
- Municipalities
- SETAs
- Non-profit organisations
Most internships run for 6–12 months and include a stipend.
Entrepreneurship: Creating Your Own Job
If jobs are scarce in your area, why not create one? Entrepreneurship is a growing path for South African youth, and you don’t always need a lot of money to start.
Sectors where youth are starting businesses:
- Beauty and hair services
- Catering and food delivery
- Online tutoring
- Digital marketing
- Clothing brands
- Farming/agriculture
- Cleaning services
Support organisations include:
- NYDA Grants
- SEFA (Small Enterprise Finance Agency)
- Seda (Small Enterprise Development Agency)
- Yoco (for payment solutions)
- Fetola (incubation for young entrepreneurs)
Also consider:
- Social media for marketing
- WhatsApp Business for orders
- Free Canva designs for branding
Soft Skills Are Just as Important
Employers often say that attitude and behaviour matter more than experience. Focus on developing these qualities:
| Soft Skill | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Communication | Clear speaking, active listening |
| Time management | Being punctual, meeting deadlines |
| Problem-solving | Thinking on your feet, being resourceful |
| Teamwork | Working well with others |
| Adaptability | Being open to learning and change |
Practice these in volunteer roles, sports teams, church activities, or community projects.
Build a Professional CV and Online Presence
Before applying for any opportunity, make sure your CV is clean, professional, and relevant.
Tips:
- Keep it to 1–2 pages
- Include your contact details
- Use a clear format (no fancy fonts)
- List your education, skills, and any experience—even informal work counts
Consider creating a LinkedIn profile, even as a student. Recruiters often check online profiles before interviews.
Where to Apply for Jobs (Besides the Big Portals)
Besides SAYouth and LinkedIn, check:
- Company websites (e.g., Shoprite, Dis-Chem, Capitec)
- Local municipal websites
- Job groups on Facebook and WhatsApp (be cautious of scams)
- Local radio stations
- University and TVET college career offices
Watch Out for Job Scams
Unfortunately, scammers prey on job seekers. Be cautious of:
- Jobs that ask for upfront payments
- Fake interviews or SMS requests
- Vague adverts with no contact details
Always verify the job and never pay for a job offer.
Summary: Your Personal Action Plan
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Register on SAYouth.mobi |
| 2 | Visit an NYDA office or website |
| 3 | Apply for learnerships on SETA or company sites |
| 4 | Start online courses to build new skills |
| 5 | Prepare your CV and cover letter |
| 6 | Join internships or YES programme |
| 7 | Consider starting a small business |
| 8 | Practice your interview and soft skills |
| 9 | Apply regularly and follow up professionally |
Final Thoughts: You Have More Power Than You Think
Even in difficult economic conditions, you are not powerless. Opportunities may not come easily, but they do exist. Your job is to be prepared, informed, and persistent.
You don’t have to have it all figured out today. You just need to take the next step.
Whether it’s applying for a learnership, polishing your CV, or learning something new online—you’re building your future.
