Youth unemployment in South Africa remains alarmingly high, with the latest figures indicating that 46.1% of young people aged 15 to 24 are still excluded from the job market.
Nearly half of South Africa’s youth are not building skills, earning an income, or gaining valuable work experience, a trend that reinforces long-term exclusion.
Ilke Stein, manager of Youth and Skills Development at Kids Haven, says local businesses and corporates have the potential to bridge this deepening divide.
“Kids Haven is a trusted anchor of hope, care and development for children and families in Benoni and throughout Ekurhuleni.
“We are inviting businesses to join an innovative networking lunch to learn more about our Pathway Programme, a proven, holistic initiative that helps young people transition from care or under-resourced households into further education, training, and employment,” she explained.
“The programme offers corporates a platform to actively partner in building a brighter future for young adults. We believe that change begins with one opportunity, one connection, one future.”
Stein emphasised that the private sector holds the power to create real, measurable impact while gaining access to well-prepared, motivated young talent for entry-level roles.
“The Pathway Programme is designed to create sustainable change, and we invite businesses of all sizes to partner with us,” she continued.
“We are not only providing candidates with potential employment but also helping them build personal confidence and workplace readiness, offering exposure to the real world of work – something a classroom alone cannot provide.”
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The aim of the project is to support youths through counselling, mentoring, and access to a strong, supportive alumni network, while offering individualised pathways tailored to each young person’s journey and needs.
“The programme provides essential training such as CV writing, computer literacy, interview preparation, and financial literacy.
“It also equips young people with tools for self-esteem, gender-based violence awareness, effective communication, and active citizenship,” said Stein. “Corporate partners play an essential role in its success.”
Opportunities to get involved include:• Job shadowing: Provide industry exposure and help young people visualise career paths.
• Internships: Short- to medium-term placements, with Kids Haven covering initial stipends and transport.Learnerships: Deliver accredited training that builds skills and opens doors to gainful employment.
• Entry-level placements: Access a pool of well-supported and motivated candidates screened and matched by Kids Haven.
• Mentorship and soft skills training: Inspire the next generation with your time and expertise.
• Career expos: Help teenagers make informed subject and career choices.
• Entrepreneurial experience: Engage with young entrepreneurs through hands-on projects that foster creativity and self-reliance.
“Access matters! Our young people are talented, eager and hungry to learn – all they need are opportunities to gain skills,” said Stein.
For more information about the Pathway Programme lunch on July 24, or to book your seat, email youth@kidshaven.co.za or reception@kidshaven.co.za
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