YES Youth Opportunity Greatest in 2025: Empowering South Africans Future Through Sportscene

YES Youth Opportunity In a country where youth unemployment remains a pressing issue, innovative initiatives like the Youth Employment Service (YES) are pivotal in creating pathways to employment for young South Africans. One such initiative is the YES Youth Opportunity programme, a collaboration between the South African government and private sector entities aimed at providing paid work experiences to unemployed youth. Among the companies participating in this initiative is Sportscene, a leading retail brand under The Foschini Group (TFG), which offers young individuals the chance to gain valuable work experience in the retail sector.

Understanding the YES Youth Opportunity Programme

Launched in 2018, the YES programme is a South African government-backed initiative designed to address the country’s high youth unemployment rate. The programme encourages businesses to create one-year paid work experiences for unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 35. By participating in YES, companies not only contribute to alleviating unemployment but also gain B-BBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment) points, promoting inclusive economic growth.

The core objective of YES is to provide young individuals with the opportunity to gain meaningful work experience, develop professional skills, and enhance their employability. Participants receive a monthly stipend, training, and mentorship, equipping them with the tools necessary to succeed in the workforce.

Sportscene’s Role in the YES Initiative

Sportscene, a prominent fashion and lifestyle retailer in South Africa, is one of the brands under TFG that actively participates in the YES programme. By offering 12-month workplace opportunity contracts, Sportscene provides unemployed youth with the chance to work in a dynamic retail environment, gaining hands-on experience in various aspects of the business.

Positions available through the YES Youth Opportunity programme at Sportscene include roles in sales, customer service, stock management, and visual merchandising. These positions are designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of retail operations, preparing them for future employment opportunities within the industry.

Benefits of Participating in the YES Youth Opportunity Programme

1. Gaining Work Experience

One of the most significant advantages of participating in the YES programme is the opportunity to gain practical work experience. For many young individuals, securing their first job can be challenging due to a lack of experience. The YES programme bridges this gap by offering structured work placements that allow participants to develop essential workplace skills.

2. Earning a Stipend

Participants in the YES programme receive a monthly stipend, providing them with financial support during their year-long placement. This stipend helps cover living expenses and reduces the financial barriers that often prevent youth from pursuing employment opportunities.

3. Receiving Training and Mentorship

Beyond work experience, the YES programme offers training and mentorship to participants. This includes work readiness programmes, which are delivered through extensive online training accessible via smartphones. Upon completing the programme, participants are allowed to keep the smartphones, further enhancing their access to digital resources and opportunities.

4. Enhancing Employability

The skills and experience gained through the YES programme significantly enhance participants’ employability. Upon completion, individuals receive a certificate and a reference letter, which are valuable additions to their CVs. Many participants also have the opportunity to transition into permanent employment within the company or the broader retail sector.

How to Apply for the YES Youth Opportunity Programme at Sportscene

Applying for the YES Youth Opportunity programme at Sportscene is a straightforward process. Interested candidates can visit the TFG careers portal or the YES4 Youth platform to browse available positions. The application process typically involves submitting a CV, completing an online application form, and attending an interview.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the YES Youth Opportunity programme at Sportscene, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be between the ages of 18 and 28 years old.
• Possess at least a Grade 10 qualification; a Matric certificate is preferable.
• Be currently unemployed and not studying full-time.
• Not have participated in the YES programme previously.
• Be available and willing to work a fixed-term 12-month contract.

Application Tips

• Prepare a Professional CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and highlights any relevant skills or experiences, even if they are from informal or volunteer work.
• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Sportscene’s products, values, and culture to demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm during the interview.
• Be Punctual and Professional: Arrive on time for interviews and communicate professionally to make a positive impression.

Testimonials from Previous Participants

Many individuals who have participated in the YES Youth Opportunity programme at Sportscene have shared positive feedback about their experiences. Participants often highlight the valuable skills they have acquired, the supportive work environment, and the career opportunities that have arisen as a result of their involvement in the programme.

For instance, one former participant noted, “The YES programme at Sportscene gave me my first real job experience. I learned so much about retail operations and customer service, and it opened doors for me in the industry.”

The Impact of the YES Programme on South Africa’s Youth

The YES programme has had a significant impact on South Africa’s youth unemployment landscape. By facilitating partnerships between the government and the private sector, YES has created thousands of work opportunities for young individuals across the country. These opportunities not only provide immediate employment but also contribute to the long-term development of a skilled and capable workforce.

Furthermore, the programme has fostered a culture of collaboration between businesses, government, and labour, demonstrating the collective effort required to address complex social issues like youth unemployment.

Conclusion

The YES Youth Opportunity programme, in partnership with companies like Sportscene, plays a crucial role in empowering South Africa’s youth. By providing access to paid work experiences, training, and mentorship, the programme equips young individuals with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the workforce. For those seeking to embark on a career in retail, the YES programme offers a valuable stepping stone towards achieving their professional goals.

For more information on available positions and application procedures, visit the TFG careers portal or the YES4Youth platform. Take the first step towards a brighter future today.

Note: This article is based on information available as of September 2025. For the most current details on the YES Youth Opportunity programme and Sportscene’s participation, please refer to the official TFG and YES4Youth websites.

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