The Nedbank Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a business-led initiative in collaboration with the South African government to combat youth unemployment. It provides young South Africans with the opportunity to develop essential skills, gain practical work experience, and improve their chances of securing long-term employment. Through this programme, participants receive structured mentorship, training, and hands-on exposure to real-world business operations within one of South Africa’s leading banks.
What is the YES Programme?
The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is designed to address youth unemployment by bridging the gap between education and meaningful work experience. This programme connects black South African youth with private sector employers to:
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Develop new skills in a professional environment
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Gain exposure to workplace culture and business operations
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Increase employability for long-term career opportunities
By participating in the YES Programme, young people benefit from mentorship, formal training, and a stipend to cover living and travel expenses. The initiative aligns with Nedbank’s commitment to social impact, skills development, and economic empowerment.
Who Can Apply for the Nedbank YES Programme?
The programme targets young South Africans who meet the following eligibility criteria:
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Age: Between 18 and 29 years old
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Education: Must have completed Matric (Grade 12)
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Citizenship: Must be South African-born African, Coloured, or Indian, as defined under the BBBEE Act as ‘black people’
The programme is aimed at providing opportunities for those who may have limited access to professional workplace experience, enabling them to develop skills that enhance their career prospects.
What Will Participants Do?
Participants in the Nedbank YES Programme will engage in a variety of learning and practical work experiences. Key components include:
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Skills Development: On-the-job training to acquire technical, administrative, and interpersonal skills
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Mentorship: Guidance from experienced professionals to support career growth
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Project Work: Assignments and projects that mirror real business challenges
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Team Collaboration: Work alongside colleagues in a professional banking environment
Through these activities, participants gain practical experience, which will significantly improve their employability in the future.
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Where Will the Work Experience Take Place?
The Nedbank YES Programme provides work experience at Nedbank branches, offices, and operational sites across South Africa. Depending on the role, some positions may offer:
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Hybrid working arrangements
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Remote working opportunities
This flexibility allows participants to gain exposure to a range of professional environments while accommodating personal or logistical considerations.
Stipend and Benefits
Nedbank YES Programme participants receive a monthly stipend, which provides financial support for living, food, and travel-related expenses. The stipend is guided by the YES Programme regulations, ensuring that youth have the necessary resources to participate fully in the programme without financial hardship.
Additional benefits include:
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Access to formal training and workshops
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Mentorship from experienced banking professionals
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Networking opportunities within Nedbank and the broader business community
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Increased employability and work readiness
