Breaking the "no experience" cycle

The biggest hurdle for young South Africans entering the job market is the classic catch-22: you need experience to get a job, but you need a job to get experience. In 2026, the government and private sector collaborate heavily to bridge this gap through structured interventions like learnerships and the YES (Youth Employment Service) programme.

If you are between 18 and 34 and currently unemployed, these platforms are designed specifically for you. Here is how they work and how to maximize your chances of getting placed.

The YES Programme: 12 months that change everything

The Youth Employment Service (YES) is a business-led collaboration with government. It incentivizes companies to give unemployed youth a 12-month quality work experience.

• How it works: Companies (from massive banks to small logistics firms) hire YES youth for a year. You are paid a salary (usually at or above the national minimum wage).
• The outcome: At the end of the 12 months, you receive a CV, a reference letter, and, crucially, a year of verifiable corporate experience. A significant percentage of YES youth are absorbed into permanent roles by their host companies.
• Who qualifies: Unemployed South African citizens (or those with a Refugee ID) aged 18 to 34.

SAYouth.mobi: Your gateway to YES and more

You do not apply for YES programmes by dropping off CVs at an office. The primary recruitment engine for YES—and many other entry-level opportunities—is SAYouth.mobi.

Why SAYouth.mobi is essential

SAYouth is a national network that connects young people to learning and earning opportunities. The platform is zero-rated, meaning you do not need mobile data to access it on your phone.

How to use it effectively

1. Register comprehensively: Go to the site and fill out your profile completely. Do not skip sections. The algorithm matches you to opportunities based on the skills, location, and educational details you provide.

2. Keep your location accurate: If you live in Tembisa, say so. Employers use the platform to find candidates who live close to their premises to reduce transport costs and commuting fatigue.

3. Check in regularly: Opportunities drop frequently. Logging in weekly keeps your profile active in the database.

Navigating formal Learnerships

While the YES programme focuses on work experience, a Learnership focuses on gaining a formal qualification while you work.

A learnership is tied to the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and is managed by the various Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). For example, you might do an IT learnership through MICT SETA or a banking learnership through BANKSETA.

• The structure: You attend classes for theory and spend the rest of your time in a workplace doing the actual job.
• The pay: You receive a monthly stipend (not a full salary, but enough to cover transport and basic expenses).
• The result: You exit with a recognized certificate or diploma and practical experience.

Avoiding the scams

Because youth unemployment is high, scams targeting desperate job seekers are unfortunately common. Protect yourself with these absolute rules:

• SAYouth is always free. You will never be asked to pay to register, pay for a profile upgrade, or pay to secure a YES placement.
• Legitimate learnerships pay you, not the other way around. If a "recruiter" asks for a deposit for a uniform, training materials, or an admin fee, it is a scam. Walk away immediately.

Getting your paperwork ready

Even for entry-level learnerships, you need to present yourself professionally. When an employer reaches out via SAYouth, they will eventually want to see a CV.

Ensure your CV is clean, highlights your matric subjects, and clearly states any informal experience you have (like volunteering or helping in a family business). Read our South African CV guide to understand exactly what to include and what to leave out.

Don't have a CV yet? Build one quickly and for free using Monta meu currículo?. Once you secure an interview, prep by reading our guide on interview questions in South Africa so you can confidently explain why you are the best candidate for the learnership.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the YES programme?

The Youth Employment Service (YES) is an initiative that provides unemployed youth (aged 18-34) with a 12-month paid work experience in the private sector to build their CVs and increase future employability.

Does it cost money to use SAYouth.mobi?

No. The platform is completely free to use and is zero-rated, meaning you do not even need airtime or data to browse it from a South African mobile network.

What is the difference between a YES placement and a learnership?

A YES placement focuses primarily on providing 12 months of practical work experience. A learnership combines practical work experience with formal classroom study, resulting in a recognized NQF qualification upon completion.

Can I get a permanent job after a learnership or YES programme?

Yes. While permanent employment is not guaranteed, a large percentage of candidates who perform well, show up on time, and integrate into the team are offered permanent contracts or contract extensions by their host companies.