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Youth Employment Service Program

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Unlocking Opportunities for SA’s Youth and Businesses (with the YES! Program)

South Africa’s youth unemployment rate is one of the highest in the world — and tackling it requires bold action. The Youth Employment Service (YES) Program was created to give young South Africans meaningful work experience, while helping businesses contribute to transformation and economic growth.

For businesses, YES is more than just a social impact initiative. It is a strategic opportunity that delivers both community upliftment and measurable benefits on your B-BBEE scorecard.

How the YES Program Works

Through the program, companies create 12-month work experiences for unemployed youth. These positions can be hosted directly within the company or placed with host employers, but either way, your business earns the recognition.

YES targets are based on company size, and the more targets you reach, the greater the benefit:

  • Meet the YES target + 2.5% absorption of youth: Your business improves its B-BBEE score by 1 Level (absorption confirmed in the following year, but Level recognition awarded in Year 1).
  • Achieve 1.5 x the YES target + 5% absorption: Your business improves by 1 Level plus earns 3 bonus points (awarded from Year 2 onwards, once absorption can be confirmed).
  • Achieve 2 x the YES target + 5% absorption: Your business improves by 2 Levels (again, absorption confirmed in the following year, but the Level enhancement applies in Year 1).

This means YES not only creates jobs for young people — it also gives businesses a competitive edge through stronger B-BBEE recognition.

Why YES Matters

For youth, the impact is life-changing:

  • Gaining workplace experience
  • Building confidence and employability
  • Opening doors to long-term career opportunities

For businesses, the program offers:

  • B-BBEE scorecard enhancement
  • Risk-free hosting options (direct or through a host employer)
  • A way to make a tangible difference in South Africa’s future

Partner with LearnMe

At LearnMe, we specialise in making compliance and transformation practical, accessible, and impactful. Our team helps businesses implement the YES Program effectively, ensuring you meet targets, maximise your scorecard benefits, and create real opportunities for South Africa’s youth.

Because when young people thrive, businesses — and the nation — thrive too.