Shoprite YES Youth Programme 2026: A 12-Month Opportunity to Gain Real Work Experience
Finding work without experience is one of the biggest challenges facing young people in South Africa. Many employers ask for experience, yet few are willing to give first-time job seekers a chance. The Shoprite YES Youth Programme 2026 is designed to change that.
This 12-month programme offers unemployed youth the opportunity to gain real, hands-on work experience while earning an income and developing skills that improve long-term employability. It is part of the national Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative, which aims to reduce youth unemployment by creating quality work experiences for young South Africans.
For many participants, this programme becomes the first step into the world of work.
What Is the Shoprite YES Youth Programme?
The Shoprite YES Youth Programme is a structured 12-month work experience programme hosted by the Shoprite Group. Successful candidates are placed in various Shoprite, Checkers, or other group stores and operations, depending on business needs.
During the programme, participants work in a real retail environment and perform meaningful duties. This is not a learnership or internship with classroom-based training only. It is actual workplace exposure that helps young people understand how a large organisation operates on a daily basis.
Participants receive guidance, workplace support, and practical training while learning valuable skills such as customer service, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving.
Programme Duration
- Duration: 12 months
- Start: 2026 intake
- Type: Work experience programme under the YES initiative
The programme runs for a full year, giving participants enough time to build confidence, learn workplace behaviour, and gain experience that can be listed on their CV.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is aimed at unemployed youth who have not yet had the chance to gain work experience.
Minimum requirements include:
- Grade 12 (Matric)
- South African citizen
- Aged between 18 and 34 years
- Currently unemployed
- No previous formal work experience
This opportunity is especially suitable for school leavers who have struggled to find their first job, as well as young people who want exposure to the retail and business environment.
What Kind of Work Will Participants Do?
While duties may vary depending on placement, participants are typically exposed to tasks such as:
- Assisting customers on the shop floor
- Packing shelves and ensuring products are well displayed
- Supporting cashiers and front-end operations
- Helping with stock control and basic administration
- Learning workplace rules, safety standards, and customer care
Through these tasks, participants develop both hard skills (job-related skills) and soft skills (communication, discipline, and teamwork).
HOW TO APPLY
Use the link below to apply by filling the form.
Why This Programme Matters
Youth unemployment remains one of South Africa’s most pressing challenges. Many young people are willing to work but lack the experience employers want. The Shoprite YES Youth Programme helps close that gap.
After completing the programme, participants leave with:
- 12 months of verifiable work experience
- A better understanding of workplace expectations
- Improved confidence and employability
- A stronger CV when applying for future jobs
While the programme does not guarantee permanent employment, the experience gained often opens doors to other opportunities, either within the retail sector or elsewhere.
Benefits of Participating
Participants in the Shoprite YES Youth Programme benefit in several ways:
- Exposure to one of Africa’s largest retail groups
- Practical, on-the-job learning
- Monthly income during the programme
- Improved chances of future employment
- A reference and work record after completion
For many young people, this programme becomes a turning point that helps them move from unemployment into the labour market.
Important Things to Know
- This is a fixed 12-month programme
- It is intended for youth with no prior work experience
- Placements depend on operational needs
- Participants must be committed, punctual, and willing to learn
Applicants should ensure that all information provided during the application process is accurate and honest.
The Shoprite YES Youth Programme 2026 offers more than just a temporary opportunity. It provides young South Africans with a chance to gain dignity through work, learn practical skills, and build a foundation for their future careers.
For youth who have completed Grade 12, are unemployed, and are struggling to get their foot in the door, this programme can be a valuable first step. With dedication and a positive attitude, the experience gained during these 12 months can lead to greater opportunities ahead.
If you meet the requirements and are serious about starting your working journey, this is an opportunity worth applying for.
0 Comments