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SPAR YES Youth Programme 2025: Bridging the Gap Between Youth and Employment

South Africa faces a critical challenge: youth unemployment rates exceeding 60%. The SPAR YES Youth Programme, a collaboration between SPAR South Africa and the Youth Employment Service (YES), addresses this crisis by equipping young people with skills, work experience, and pathways to sustainable employment. In this article, we delve into how the programme works, its benefits, and how you can apply.

What is the SPAR YES Youth Programme?

The SPAR YES Youth Programme is part of South Africa’s national YES initiative, launched in 2018 to create job opportunities for unemployed youth aged 18–35. SPAR, a leading retail brand, partners with YES to offer 12-month paid internships, skills development, and mentorship in sectors like retail, logistics, and administration.

Key Objectives:

  • Reduce youth unemployment through practical work experience.
  • Equip participants with industry-relevant skills.
  • Foster long-term employability and entrepreneurship.

How Does the SPAR YES Youth Programme Work?

The programme follows a structured approach to ensure holistic development:

Internship Placements

  • Participants join SPAR stores or partner organizations for hands-on training in roles like cashiers, merchandisers, or administrative assistants.

Skills Development Workshop

  • Workshops cover digital literacy, financial management, customer service, and CV writing

Mentorship

  • Each intern is paired with a mentor for career guidance and personal growth

Job Placement Support

  • After completion, participants gain access to SPAR’s network for permanent roles or entrepreneurship opportunities.

Benefits of the SPAR YES Youth Programme

  • 💼 Paid Internship: Earn a monthly stipend while learning.
  • 📚 Certification: Receive accredited training certificates.
  • 🤝 Networking: Connect with industry professionals.
  • 🚀 Career Pathways: Priority consideration for SPAR vacancies.
  • 🌱 Entrepreneurship Support: Guidance for starting small businesses.

Success Stories: Transforming Lives

While specific data is proprietary, YES reports that over 85,000 youth have gained employment nationally through YES partnerships since 2018. For example, Thandiwe M., a 2022 SPAR YES graduate, now manages a SPAR store in Durban. “The programme taught me leadership and inventory management,” she says.

How to Apply for the SPAR YES Youth Programme

Eligibility Criteria:

  • South African citizen aged 18–35.
  • Matric certificate (or equivalent).
  • No prior formal work experience.

Application Steps:

  1. Visit the YES Youth Portal.
  2. Complete the online profile.
  3. Select “SPAR” as your preferred employer.
  4. Submit required documents (ID, matric certificate).

Tip: Applications open quarterly—follow SPAR SA on social media for updates.

FAQs About the SPAR YES Youth Programme

1. Is the programme only for SPAR stores?

No. Placements include SPAR partners in logistics, marketing, and NGOs.

2. What happens after 12 months?

Graduates receive a certificate and access to SPAR’s job database. Many transition to permanent roles.

3. Are there age exceptions?

YES focuses strictly on 18–35-year-olds to align with national youth definitions.

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