SPAR Application – YES4Youth 2026: Enhancing South Africa’s Youth Potential for the Future
Youth unemployment is one of South Africa’s greatest socio-economic challenges. SPAR South Africa, together with the YES for Youth Programme, has assisted the South African youth by developing their skills and enabling them to work. SPAR has been involved in the initiative since 2019, showcasing their commitment to the South African youth and the country’s economic growth.
SPAR has been awarded by the president of South Africa for being one of the greatest contributors of youth employment and ESG Impact, showcasing the impact on the lives of thousands of young people. SPAR is pleased to announce the 6th Annual YES for Youth Programme. Eligible youth are encouraged to apply.
About the YES for Youth Programme
The YES (Youth Employment Service) for Youth Programme aims to create quality work experiences for unemployed youth throughout the country. In the process, participants obtain exposure to working life, learn important skills, and strengthen their chances of being employed in the future. With the programme, participants are offered practical workplace experience, as well as training, and mentoring, which provide participants with the confidence to do more than just the work contract. This is the fourth intake of the programme; many more intakes as a learning experience for young South Africans in SPAR, Build It and other related businesses, with the help of programme partners like Catalyx.
Who Can Apply?
For SPAR YES4Youth 2026 Programme, applicants must be:
South African citizens
18 to 28 years of age
Currently unemployed and not studying
Have Matric
Have a clear criminal record (criminal checks will be done by Catalyx)
Available to do the entire programme
While not a requirement, applicants with a University Degree or an FET Technical Trade Qualification will be at an advantage.For all applicants the following documents are required to be uploaded as part of this application process.
– A detailed CV
– A certified copy of their South African ID
– A certified copy of qualifications (Matric certificate and any other qualifications)
To avoid disqualification, it is required that all documents are accurate, up to date, and clearly legible.
Training and Evaluation
Candidates that are shortlisted will be required to participate in an evaluation process, consisting of:
JumpStart Training, which is part of the work readiness activities, and is aimed at preparing candidates to start working
One week work experience, where candidates are placed in an environment that reflects actual working conditions
An interview that is geared towards assessing the candidate’s readiness for placement
This will ensure that candidates are successful and will be able to effectively utilize the YES work experience.
Contract Information
The YES4Youth contracts will begin on the 1st of April 2026. The participants will then be placed in different positions within SPAR and partner companies, where they will learn to work and acquire essential skills for their future employability.
Important Notice: No Fee Payments
Applicants, please take note: Catalyx, SPAR, Build It, and YES do not require any fees at any point in the application/recruitment process. Please consider any requests for payment to be fraudulent and report them.
Start Building Your Future
The SPAR YES4Youth 2026 Programme is more than just a job. It offers participants the chance to gain new skills, experience the workplace, and enhance their employability. By focusing on young people today, SPAR is working to foster stronger communities and help build an inclusive economy.
Application – YES4Youth 2026
Contract start date is 01 April 2026.
Why Join SPAR’s YES4Youth Programme
If you have the potential and the drive to grow, learn and add value, apply for the programme that is making a difference in the lives of many South Africans.
