Unemployment is one of the biggest challenges facing young people in South Africa today. If you’re under 30 and still struggling to find work, it’s time to take action before it’s too late. The longer you stay unemployed, the harder it becomes to break into the job market. But don’t lose hope—there are real opportunities you can pursue right now to change your future.
- Take Advantage of Learnerships and Internships
Many companies and government institutions offer learnerships and internships designed to help young people gain work experience while earning a stipend. These programs often lead to permanent employment if you perform well. Some of the best industries offering learnerships include:
- Banking and Finance
- Retail and Customer Service
- Healthcare and Emergency Services
- IT and Telecommunications
- Mining and Engineering
Look out for opportunities from organizations like SETA, Transnet, Sasol, and major retail chains such as Pick n Pay and Shoprite.
- Register on Government and Private Job Portals
Many young job seekers miss out on opportunities simply because they don’t know where to look. Make sure you are registered on key job-seeking platforms, including:
- SA Youth (sayouth.mobi)
- ESSA (Employment Services of South Africa)
- PNet, CareerJunction, and Indeed
- LinkedIn – a great place to connect with potential employers and recruiters
- Edupstairs: A Great Platorm that advertises Jobs, learnerships, EPWP… etc
- Apply for the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
The EPWP offers temporary work opportunities in different sectors such as infrastructure, social services, and environmental projects. While these jobs may not be permanent, they provide valuable experience and can lead to future employment opportunities. Visit your local municipality to find out about available EPWP opportunities.
- Upskill Yourself with Free or Affordable Courses
Having an extra skill on your CV can make a huge difference. If you’re currently unemployed, consider gaining new skills through online platforms like:
- Coursera (some courses are free)
- Udemy (affordable online courses)
- Google Digital Skills for Africa (free courses in digital marketing and IT)
- Microsoft Learn (free IT and software training)
Many South African institutions, such as TVET colleges, also offer short courses that can help you become more employable.
- Start Your Own Small Business
If jobs are scarce, why not create your own? The South African government and private institutions offer funding and support for young entrepreneurs. Organizations like the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) provide funding and training to help young people start businesses in:
- Agriculture
- Catering and food services
- Beauty and fashion
- Cleaning services
- Mobile and online businesses
Even starting something small, like selling products online or offering a local service, can provide an income while you search for formal employment.
- Network and Get Referrals
Many jobs are never advertised—they are filled through personal networks. Attend career expos, workshops, and networking events to connect with people in your field of interest. Join job seeker WhatsApp groups and Facebook pages where opportunities are shared. Let friends and family know you’re looking for work so they can refer you when they hear of opportunities.
- Volunteer to Gain Experience
Many young people struggle to get jobs because they lack experience. Volunteering at local NGOs, churches, or community organizations can help you build your CV and gain the skills employers are looking for. Some organizations also offer stipends for volunteers.
- Keep a Positive Mindset and Stay Persistent
Job hunting can be discouraging, but giving up is not an option. Keep applying, keep learning, and keep improving yourself. With determination and the right strategy, you can and will find a job or create an income stream for yourself.
Final Thoughts
If you’re under 30 and unemployed in South Africa, don’t wait until it’s too late. Take advantage of the many opportunities available to young job seekers. Whether it’s a learnership, internship, starting a small business, or gaining new skills, there is always a way forward. The most important thing is to take action today!
Now go out there and secure your future!
EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE
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