According to the Shoprite Group, the YES programme is a business-driven initiative in partnership with government and labour to build economic pathways for black youth to reduce unemployment.

Since the inception of the partnership in November 2018, the Shoprite Group has created 9 454 youth opportunities through the YES programme.

Participants receive 12 months of on-the-job training with exposure to various facets of the retail industry. On completion of the programme, successful YES learners are skilled to work in retail or to initiate their own entrepreneurial journeys, says the group. 

"With youth unemployment at a staggering 63.9%, the (Shoprite) Group's talent attraction and development strategy places a strong focus on offering early careers to youth interested in pursuing a career in retail," says Leigh Adams, head of group talent and learning solutions.

The Shoprite Group's Retail Readiness Programme is understood to be the largest and most successful skills development initiative undertaken by a South African retailer. The seven-week programme equips unemployed youth with the basic skills required to work in a retail environment or to start their own business. Successful participants receive NQF-level 3 qualifications, the group says. 

According the Group, over the past three years, it has invested more than R384.5-million into the skills development and training of 18 513 unemployed youth.

Individuals who wish to apply for one of the Shoprite Group's youth development programmes can do so by:
  • sending a WhatsApp to 087 240 5709 and selecting job opportunities
  • visiting the Shoprite Group's webpage, or 
  • submitting their CV at the nearest Shoprite, Checkers or Usave supermarket.

For more information, visit www.shoperiteholdings.co.za. You can also follow Shoprite Group on X or on Instagram.