In a country where youth unemployment remains a significant challenge, the YES Programme is making strides in opening doors for young South Africans to gain meaningful work experience. One such opportunity has emerged in the Western Cape, specifically with the renowned retail brand @Home, part of the international retail portfolio TFG (The Foschini Group).
This initiative is calling on young individuals between the ages of 18 and 28 to step into the world of retail and embrace a life-changing first working experience.
What is the YES Programme?
The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a government-backed initiative aimed at empowering young South Africans by providing them with structured, paid work experience. It targets those who have limited or no formal work history and aims to bridge the gap between education and employment. The programme focuses on helping youth develop skills, build their resumes, and increase their chances of long-term employment in South Africa’s competitive job market.
@Home’s Role in the YES Programme
@Home, a well-established homeware and furniture brand under TFG, is proudly participating in the YES Programme by offering full-time, fixed-term contracts that last 12 months. This opportunity is perfect for youth eager to enter the retail sector and who are passionate about delivering excellent customer experiences.
The brand offers a premium range of quality homeware and furniture, striving to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. @Home believes in the art of possibility, blending physical and digital retail spaces to offer a true omnichannel shopping experience. This reflects the dynamic and fast-evolving nature of retail today, providing a rich learning environment for young people starting their careers.
Who Qualifies for This Opportunity?
The @Home YES Programme opportunity is designed for young South Africans who meet specific criteria to ensure the programme reaches those who need it most:
- Age: Candidates must be between 18 and 28 years old.
- Education: A minimum education level of Grade 10 is required, with Matric being preferable.
- Employment Status: Applicants should not have been permanently employed with a single employer for more than one year continuously.
- Study Status: Candidates should not be enrolled in full-time studies during the contract period (April 2025 to March 2026).
- Previous YES Participation: The programme is open only to first-time participants.
- Logistics: Applicants must manage their own accommodation and transportation if necessary.
- Employment Equity: Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups as per South Africa’s Employment Equity Act.
Why Work at @Home?
@Home offers more than just a job — it’s a launchpad for personal and professional growth. As part of the TFG group, which includes 34 lifestyle and apparel brands, @Home is committed to nurturing its people, recognizing that they are the company’s greatest asset.
Young employees will gain practical retail skills, experience working in a well-established brand, and enjoy mentorship that prepares them for future opportunities within the retail industry or beyond. The environment is vibrant and inclusive, encouraging employees to contribute ideas, innovate, and grow.
What Can Applicants Expect?
Successful candidates joining the YES Programme @Home will:
- Gain hands-on experience in retail operations, including customer service, sales, stock management, and merchandising.
- Learn how to provide an exceptional guest experience that aligns with the brand’s commitment to quality and service.
- Experience the dynamic nature of omnichannel retail, blending in-store and online customer engagement.
- Receive support and training aimed at enhancing both professional skills and personal development.
- Be part of a team that values diversity, inclusion, and creating opportunities for youth empowerment.
The YES Programme addresses a critical social challenge: youth unemployment and underemployment. By offering structured work experience and skills development, the programme equips young people with the tools they need to succeed in the job market. This initiative not only benefits individuals but also contributes to the economy by fostering a more skilled and employable workforce.
For youth in the Western Cape and across South Africa, opportunities like those at @Home offer a chance to build a foundation for a brighter future.
Check also: Knysna Municipality Apprenticeship Programme (2026)