Ravi Naidoo, CEO of Youth Employment Service (YES), recently featured on 702's ShapeShifter program to discuss the organisation's impact on South Africa's youth unemployment crisis.
YES, launched in 2018, operates as a joint initiative between business, government, and labor to create work opportunities for youth aged 18-35. Under Naidoo's leadership, YES has established partnerships with over 1,800 companies across South Africa.
The organisation's innovative approach combines corporate partnerships with targeted skills development. YES works by connecting businesses with young job seekers, providing yearlong quality work experiences that often lead to permanent employment opportunities.
Since its inception, YES has created over 100,000 work opportunities across various sectors. The program particularly focuses on providing first-time work experiences, recognising these as crucial stepping stones to long-term employment.
Naidoo brings extensive experience in economic development and youth empowerment to his role as CEO. His vision for YES emphasises sustainable job creation through active private sector engagement. The ShapeShifter interview highlighted YES's strategic approach to addressing youth unemployment, including innovative programs like Youth4Tourism and various sector-specific initiatives.
The organisation's success demonstrates the effectiveness of business-led solutions to social challenges. YES continues to expand its impact through new corporate partnerships and sector-specific programs, working toward its goal of reducing youth unemployment in South Africa.
Amendment to the Gazette