Finding a first job in South Africa can feel like an uphill climb, especially when you’ve got nothing on your CV to prove you can work. That’s why the The Foschini Group YES Programme is a game‑changer for 2026. It offers a full 12‑month, paid placement in retail across all provinces, giving you hands‑on experience you’ll need to land future roles.
What is the TFG YES Programme?
The Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative has partnered with The Foschini Group to create a 12‑month fixed‑term retail placement for unemployed youth aged 18‑28. From April 2026 to March 2027, you can work in stores throughout Gauteng, KwaZulu‑Natal, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and Northern Cape. You’ll receive a monthly stipend, develop workplace habits, and gain a reference letter if you perform well.
Who should apply?
If you meet these conditions, you’re a strong candidate:
- Age 18–28
- Matric preferred (but not mandatory)
- Never permanently employed for more than 12 months with one employer
- Not studying full‑time between April 2026 and March 2027
- Never done a YES Programme before
- Will cover your own transport and accommodation
- Ready to work in a retail environment
Applicants from designated equity groups get priority, in line with the Employment Equity Act.
What you gain
The programme equips you with skills that work in any job:
- Customer service: greeting, assisting, handling queries
- Retail operations: stock handling, merchandising, price tagging
- Workplace behaviour: punctuality, teamwork, professional communication
After the placement, you’ll have:
- 12 months of real workplace experience
- A strong CV and reference letters
- Confidence in customer interactions
- Potential for permanent roles in retail, visual merchandising, store management or head‑office positions such as buyer assistant or marketing assistant.
While the placement isn’t a guaranteed job offer, many past participants have moved into permanent roles across South Africa.
How to apply
- Prepare these documents early:
- Updated CV
- Certified ID copy
- Matric certificate (if you have it)
- Proof of residence (sometimes requested)
- Make sure your CV lists:
- Correct contact details
- Highest qualification
- Any volunteer or short course experience
- Go to the official portal and submit your application: Apply for the Foschini Group YES Programme 2026 here
- After submitting, keep an eye on your phone. Reply professionally to any call from recruiters.
- Follow any instructions carefully during the recruitment stages.
Practical tips to improve your chances
- Apply early – competition can be high.
- Check your phone daily after applying. Many applicants miss a call or email and lose their slot.
- Treat this as a serious job application: dress well for any interview, practice common questions, and show enthusiasm for learning.
- Remember that the programme is a learning experience, not a guaranteed job.
Frequently asked questions
- Is it a full‑time job? It is a 12‑month work‑experience placement, not a permanent role.
- Will I get a stipend? Yes, a monthly stipend is paid, though the amount may vary by placement.
- Do I need a matric? Matric is preferred, but not always mandatory.
- Can I re‑apply if I’ve done YES before? No, previous participants are not eligible.
- Do I pick my store? Placement is based on store availability near you.
- What about the closing date? The closing date is not specified at this time.
Disclaimer
- The programme does not guarantee permanent employment after completion.
- Transport and accommodation are the applicant’s responsibility.
- Selection follows Employment Equity guidelines.
- Applicants may only participate once.
- Always use official recruitment platforms.
Ready to start building your career? Gather your documents, visit the official portal and submit your application today. This is a unique chance to turn your lack of experience into a tangible, marketable skill set.
