For many young people in South Africa, 2026 can be the year they finally get real work experience. If you have been applying for jobs and keep hearing, “You need experience first,” then the The Foschini Group (TFG) YES Programme may be the kind of opportunity you need right now. It gives unemployed youth a chance to enter retail, learn on the job, and build a stronger CV.
Many applicants struggle because they have finished school but still cannot get that first job. This programme is meant to help with that problem. It offers a 12-month fixed-term retail placement through the Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative. It is open to unemployed youth across South Africa.
What the opportunity is
The Foschini Group YES Programme 2026 is a 12-month work experience placement in the retail sector. It is part of the Youth Employment Service, also known as YES.
The programme will run from April 2026 to March 2027. It is available in all provinces, depending on store availability near your area.
This is not a permanent job. It is a fixed-term opportunity that helps young people gain workplace experience, improve employability, and learn how a major retail company operates.
Quick overview
- Programme name: The Foschini Group YES Programme
- Duration: 12 months
- Location: All provinces in South Africa
- Target group: Unemployed youth aged 18–28
- Minimum qualification: Matric preferred
- Start period: April 2026 – March 2027
- Employment type: Fixed-term work experience placement
- Sector: Retail
- Programme partner: Youth Employment Service (YES Initiative)
- Transport and accommodation: For the applicant’s own account
- Equity consideration: Preference given to designated groups
Who can apply
This opportunity is for young South Africans who want to start working but do not yet have enough experience to compete in the job market.
You should consider applying if you:
- are between 18 and 28 years old
- are unemployed
- preferably have Matric
- are available for a 12-month fixed-term contract
- have not been permanently employed by one employer for more than 12 consecutive months
- are not studying full-time between April 2026 and March 2027
- have not taken part in a YES Programme before
- can pay for your own transport and accommodation
- are willing to work in a retail store environment
Preference will be given to applicants from designated groups in line with the Employment Equity Act.
This opportunity is a good fit if you want to build a future in:
- retail
- customer service
- sales
- store management
- merchandising
- logistics support
The programme is open nationwide, including:
- Gauteng
- KwaZulu-Natal
- Western Cape
- Eastern Cape
- Free State
- Limpopo
- Mpumalanga
- North West
- Northern Cape
What you gain from the programme
This placement does not promise permanent employment. That is important to understand from the start. But it can still help you in a real way.
You will gain 12 months of practical retail experience. That kind of experience matters when you apply for future jobs.
During the programme, you can learn how to:
- work in a real store
- assist customers professionally
- handle daily retail tasks
- communicate clearly with people
- work in a team
- show responsibility and reliability
You may also learn about:
- store layout
- stock receiving
- merchandising displays
- price tagging
- shelf replenishment
In addition, you will build workplace behaviour skills such as:
- punctuality
- professional conduct
- teamwork etiquette
- workplace communication
- personal responsibility
These are the kinds of skills employers want. They also help you feel more confident in your first job.
Participants usually benefit from:
- 12 months of workplace experience
- exposure to a major retail employer
- stronger employability
- a more credible CV
- possible reference letters in many cases
- better customer service skills
- understanding of workplace systems
Some YES participants later move into permanent roles after the placement ends. That does happen, but it is not guaranteed.
How to apply
Applications must be made through the official recruitment platform.
Official application link
Apply for the Foschini Group (TFG) YES Programme 2026 here
Before you apply, prepare your documents carefully. This can save you time later.
Documents to prepare
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of your ID
- Matric certificate, if available
- Proof of residence, if requested
Make sure your CV is clear and simple. Include:
- your correct contact details
- your highest qualification
- any volunteering experience
- any short courses you have completed
If you have never had a formal job, do not leave your CV empty. Even informal work, volunteer work, or community help can show that you are willing to learn and work.
After applying, keep your phone close. Recruiters often call at any time, and many people miss opportunities because they ignore unknown numbers.
Tips to improve your chances
Competition for entry-level opportunities is usually high. That is normal. Many young people are applying for the same chance, so you need to treat this like a real job application.
Here are simple ways to improve your chances:
- Apply early
- Check that your CV is updated
- Use a working phone number
- Answer calls professionally
- Read instructions carefully
- Check your email and SMS every day
- Be ready to respond quickly if shortlisted
Also remember that employers do not always expect you to have experience. They often look for readiness, attitude, and reliability. Show that you are serious, willing to learn, and prepared to work.
Career growth after the programme
Even though this is a 12-month placement, it can still help shape your future.
With retail experience, you may later move into jobs such as:
- Shop Assistant
- Cashier
- Sales Associate
- Visual Merchandiser
- Supervisor
- Store Manager
If you continue studying or gain more experience, you could also move toward head office roles such as:
- Buyer Assistant
- HR Administrator
- Logistics Coordinator
- Marketing Assistant
Retail can open more doors than many people think. The first step is often the hardest one, and this programme can help you take it.
Frequently asked questions
Will I get permanent employment?
No. This is a 12-month work experience opportunity. However, strong performers may be considered for future roles.
Will I receive a stipend?
YES placements usually include a monthly stipend aligned with programme guidelines. The amount may differ depending on the placement structure.
Can I apply if I am studying full-time?
No. You must not be studying full-time between April 2026 and March 2027.
Can I apply without Matric?
Matric is preferred, but it may not always be required.
Can I apply if I already did YES before?
No. Previous YES participants are not eligible.
Do I choose my own store placement?
Placement depends on store availability near your area.
Important notes
- This programme does not guarantee permanent employment.
- Placement depends on store availability.
- Transport and accommodation are your responsibility.
- Selection follows Employment Equity guidelines.
- You can only participate in the YES Programme once.
Closing date: Not specified
Always use official recruitment platforms when applying. Be careful with fake job adverts and scams. Do not pay money to apply for any job or learnership.
If this opportunity fits your situation, prepare your documents now and apply through the official link. For many young people, a first work experience placement can be the start of something bigger. You may not get everything at once, but you can take one good step forward.
