Retail Readiness Programme (RRP) & Youth Employment Services (YES) Program 2025/2026

Retail Readiness Programme

South Africa’s unemployment rate remains one of the highest in the world, with young people often being the most affected. Many job seekers struggle to find opportunities because they lack previous work experience, even though they are qualified and eager to contribute. The Retail Readiness Programme (RRP) and the Youth Employment Services (YES) Program were specifically designed to address this challenge. These initiatives equip young people with the skills and exposure they need to enter the job market confidently and begin building sustainable careers.

If you are between the ages of 18 and 34, have at least a Grade 10 pass, and want to gain real-world experience in the retail industry, this programme may be exactly the steppingstone you’ve been searching for.

Why the Retail Readiness Programme Matters

The retail sector is one of South Africa’s largest employers. From supermarkets and clothing stores to pharmacies and hardware outlets, the retail industry touches nearly every part of daily life. However, most retail employers require some degree of customer service skills, product handling knowledge, and workplace readiness before they hire new employees.

That’s where the Retail Readiness Programme (RRP) comes in. This initiative provides unemployed youth with a structured pathway into retail. Over seven weeks, participants are introduced to both theoretical and practical training that prepares them for employment in stores across the country.

The structure of the programme is simple but powerful:

• Three weeks of theory covering workplace basics, customer service, safety, and retail operations.
• Four weeks of in-store practical training, where participants gain hands-on experience in real retail environments.

Upon successful completion, learners are awarded an NQF Level 2 certificate, which is a nationally recognised qualification that boosts employability.

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The Link Between RRP and YES

The Youth Employment Services (YES) Program is a national initiative backed by government, businesses, and NGOs. Its goal is to provide one-year work experience opportunities for unemployed youth who may otherwise struggle to find jobs. YES is especially impactful because it focuses on giving young people their very first job experience, breaking the cycle of “no experience, no job.”

The Retail Readiness Programme often works hand-in-hand with YES by ensuring that young candidates are not only placed in stores but also trained with the basic skills to succeed. This combination of structured training and workplace exposure dramatically improves a young person’s chances of securing long-term employment after the programme ends.

Who Can Apply?

The RRP and YES Program are open to South African youth between 18 and 34 years old. You don’t need previous work experience, making this opportunity ideal for:

• School leavers
• Recent matriculants
• Young people who have been unemployed for long periods
• Those who want to enter the retail sector but don’t know where to start

While the minimum requirement is a Grade 10 pass (or equivalent), having a matric certificate can be an advantage during the selection process.

Skills You’ll Gain

By participating in the Retail Readiness Programme and the YES Program, learners gain both hard and soft skills that employers are looking for in today’s competitive job market. Some of these include:

• Customer service skills: Learning how to interact with customers politely and professionally.
• Communication skills: Understanding how to work with teams and deal with workplace instructions.
• Basic retail operations: Stocking shelves, handling goods, and maintaining store hygiene.
• Workplace discipline: Time management, responsibility, and teamwork.
• Problem-solving skills: Handling challenges that arise in a retail environment.

These skills not only prepare candidates for retail jobs but are also transferable to other industries like hospitality, logistics, and administration.

The Benefits of Completing the Programme

1. Nationally recognised certification – An NQF Level 2 qualification adds credibility to your CV.
2. Work experience – The in-store training ensures that your first job won’t feel overwhelming, as you’ll already know what to expect.
3. Confidence boost – For many young people, stepping into the workplace for the first time can be intimidating. This programme reduces that fear.
4. Increased employability – Employers value candidates who have been part of structured training programmes, as it shows discipline and readiness.
5. Potential for long-term employment – Many participants are absorbed into retail companies after their training, while others find it easier to secure jobs elsewhere.

How to Apply

The application process is simple and accessible to anyone with a mobile phone.

📱 Step 1: Save the following WhatsApp number: 072 773 4335.
📱 Step 2: Send the word “hello” to the number.
📱 Step 3: Select “Our stores” from the menu to begin your application.

Make sure your personal details, qualifications, and contact information are accurate when completing the process. This will help recruiters reach you quickly if you are shortlisted.

Tips for Applicants

• Apply early: Opportunities like these often have limited spaces. Sending your application as soon as possible increases your chances.
• Be honest: Provide accurate details about your qualifications and background. False information could disqualify you.
• Prepare for training: Once selected, treat the programme seriously. Show up on time, participate fully, and commit to learning.
• Think long term: Use the programme as a steppingstone to greater opportunities in retail and beyond.

Success Stories from RRP and YES

Many young South Africans have already transformed their lives through these initiatives. For example, participants often start as cashiers, shelf packers, or sales assistants, and some eventually work their way into store supervisors or managers. The combination of training, real-world exposure, and certification makes it possible to grow within the retail sector. Retail Readiness Programme

Some candidates even use the confidence and experience gained to pursue other careers, such as logistics coordinators, office administrators, or entrepreneurs. The retail sector is often described as a gateway to broader career opportunities, and this programme proves exactly that.

Why Retail is a Smart Career Choice

While some may view retail jobs as entry-level positions, they are far more than that. The retail sector is dynamic, customer-focused, and offers room for career growth. With South Africa’s growing consumer market and the rise of e-commerce, the demand for skilled retail workers is not slowing down anytime soon.

By starting with the Retail Readiness Programme, you gain a foundation that allows you to grow in the industry. Whether your goal is to manage a store, work in supply chain logistics, or even start your own business, retail provides a strong starting point.

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The Retail Readiness Programme (RRP) and Youth Employment Services (YES) Program provide more than just training—they open doors to opportunity. For young people struggling to find employment, this could be the chance to finally gain the skills, experience, and confidence needed to thrive in the workplace. Retail Readiness Programme

With just seven weeks of commitment, participants walk away with an NQF Level 2 certificate, hands-on experience, and a stronger CV. More importantly, they gain the hope and motivation to build sustainable careers.

If you are a young South African between 18 and 34 years old, don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Send “hello” to 072 773 4335 on WhatsApp, select “Our stores,” and take the first step toward your future in retail today.

Retail Readiness Programme

LEARNER YES PROGRAM