client center
As we delve into the depths of June, a month dedicated to honouring the youth, we are compelled to confront the harsh reality that haunts us: youth unemployment. With each passing year, we are reminded of the indomitable spirit of the young souls who fought against apartheid during the historic June 16th Soweto Uprising in South Africa. Their courageous stance against injustice begs us to wonder how they would perceive the current plight of today’s African youth, trapped in a web of unemployment, and stripped of their dignity. Youth unemployment is no longer an individual predicament but a collective burden that weighs heavily on the shoulders of a nation. The time for complacency has long passed; action is the currency of change. We must tap into the strength of the 600 lives lost during the uprising and the countless others who took to the streets. It is now our duty to break the chains of youth unemployment and pave the way towards a brighter tomorrow.
Below are some strategies and tips to increase your chances of securing employment:
1 Connect with Initiatives that are committed to the cause. Our government is strong partner in coming with strategies on how to improve the employability of its youth with getting your foot in the door. Youth Employment Service – https://www.yes4youth.co.za, Harambee Youth Employment https://www.harambee.co.za have assisted many Job seeking youth with CV drafting and assisting with perfecting interview skills. In addition, there are great places to increase your professional presence like Pnet Career Junction and Linkedin.
2 Network: Build and expand your professional network. Connecting with a recruitment agency is 1 way of Networking to help connect you to opportunities but more importantly, Connect with professionals in your field to better understand the terrain of your industry of choice. This professional network will have information on where to find volunteering as well as internship programmes available and how to ready yourself for them.
3 Persistence and Resilience: Job hunting can be challenging, so maintain a positive mindset and persevere. Stay motivated, learn from rejections, and continue refining your approach. Your determination and resilience will eventually pay off. Remember, finding work takes time and effort. By implementing these strategies, you can improve your chances of finding employment and position yourself as a strong and competitive candidate in the job market.
