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Woolworths YES Learnership Empowerment: Opening Doors for South African Youth
Woolworths YES Learnership Empowerment: Woolworths, one of South Africa’s most trusted retail brands, has been a committed partner in the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme since its early days. This powerful initiative—launched by government, business, labour, and civil society—tackles youth unemployment head-on by creating paid, quality 12-month work experiences for young people aged 18–29. Through YES, Woolworths empowers unemployed youth with real retail skills, mentorship, and a strong foundation for future careers, helping build brighter futures and stronger communities.
What Makes the Woolworths YES Programme Special?
Woolworths integrates YES participants into its vibrant stores, head office, and operations nationwide. These placements are more than just jobs—they’re structured empowerment opportunities designed to transform lives. Many Woolworths YES roles blend hands-on work experience with elements of learnership-style training, where participants gain practical retail skills like customer service, stock management, visual merchandising, and food retail operations (especially in Woolworths Food stores).
Key highlights include:
- Paid placements: Participants receive a monthly stipend to cover transportation and living expenses.
- Quality work experience — Real exposure in a premium retail environment, learning from industry leaders.
- Mentorship & development — Guidance from experienced teams, plus work-readiness training (often digital via smartphone).
- Pathway to opportunity — Strong performers often get considered for permanent roles or further training at Woolworths.
Since launching its first Woolworths YES Learnership Empowerment intake (approximately 450 learners across 108 stores and the head office in 2019), Woolworths has continued to support the programme, aligning with the national goal of empowering one million young South Africans.
Who Can Apply for Woolworths YES Learnership-Style Opportunities?
Eligibility is straightforward and inclusive:
- South African citizen aged 18–29.
- Currently unemployed.
- Completed at least Grade 10 or Grade 12 (Matric) — no degree required for most YES placements.
- Never previously participated in a YES programme.
- Passion for retail, customer service, and teamwork.
Woolworths YES Learnership Empowerment, Some placements may emphasise retail or food service interests, while others align with accredited learnership frameworks to earn additional qualifications. The programme is a valuable opportunity for youth to acquire the skills needed for a successful career.
How to Get Involved
Woolworths recruits YES participants through official channels, often via the SAYouth platform — a free, zero-rated site where youth register and connect to opportunities. Keep an eye on:
- Woolworths Careers website.
- The YES website.
- Social media and job boards for open intakes (e.g., recent mentions of January/February 2026 opportunities).
When applying:
- Register on SAYouth or relevant portals.
- Prepare your ID, CV, and proof of qualifications.
- Complete any required affidavit (similar to other YES partners) declaring eligibility.
- Stay alert for Woolworths-specific YES calls—applications can open seasonally.
Real Impact, Real Empowerment
Participants in Woolworths’ YES programme often describe it as life-changing. They gain confidence, professional networks, retail know-how, and a first step onto the career ladder. For many, it’s the bridge from unemployment to employability—proving that, with the right opportunity, South African youth can thrive within one of the country’s most beloved brands.
Conclusion on Woolworths YES Learnership Empowerment
If you’re a young person ready to say YES to growth, check the official channels today. Woolworths’ commitment to youth empowerment isn’t just corporate—it’s creating real change, one learner at a time. Your future in retail could start right here!
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