For many young South Africans, getting a first job is one of the biggest challenges after leaving school. Most employers require previous work experience, making it difficult for first-time job seekers to enter the labour market. To help address this challenge, The Foschini Group (TFG) is once again participating in the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme, offering eligible young people the opportunity to gain 12 months of valuable workplace experience in the retail industry.
If you are an unemployed South African between the ages of 18 and 28, this programme could be your stepping stone to a successful career. Whether you have recently completed Grade 12 or are simply looking for your first opportunity to gain practical work experience, the TFG YES Youth Opportunity Programme can help you build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market.
Working for one of South Africa’s largest retail groups allows participants to experience a professional working environment while learning from experienced retail professionals. The knowledge and experience gained during the programme can significantly improve your employability and open doors to future career opportunities.
What is the TFG YES Youth Opportunity Programme?
The Youth Employment Service (YES) is a national initiative established to create meaningful employment opportunities for unemployed young South Africans. Through partnerships with leading companies such as The Foschini Group, the programme gives youth the opportunity to gain practical work experience that they may otherwise struggle to obtain.
The TFG YES Programme is a 12-month fixed-term workplace experience programme where successful applicants work in one of TFG’s retail brands while receiving on-the-job training.
Participants become part of a real working team and gain practical exposure to retail operations, customer service, merchandising, teamwork, communication, stock handling, and other essential workplace skills.
The programme focuses on preparing young people for long-term employment by providing practical experience rather than classroom-based learning.
About The Foschini Group (TFG)
The Foschini Group (TFG) is one of Africa’s largest fashion and lifestyle retailers. The company owns and operates more than 34 well-known retail brands, serving millions of customers across South Africa and several international markets.
Its brands cover various retail sectors, including:
- Fashion
- Clothing
- Footwear
- Jewellery
- Cosmetics
- Homeware
- Furniture
- Cellular products
- Sportswear
- Lifestyle products
TFG’s mission is to create remarkable shopping experiences while investing in the growth and development of its employees.
The company believes that its people are its greatest strength. As a result, TFG continues to create opportunities that help young South Africans develop valuable workplace skills while building rewarding careers.
Many employees who started in entry-level positions have progressed into supervisory, management, and specialist roles within the company.
Why the YES Programme Matters
Youth unemployment remains one of South Africa’s biggest challenges. Thousands of young people complete school every year but struggle to find employment because they have never worked before.
The TFG YES Programme helps solve this problem by giving participants practical workplace experience.
Instead of only learning through theory, participants work in a real retail environment where they interact with customers, assist colleagues, solve everyday workplace challenges, and develop professional behaviour expected by employers.
This experience becomes an important addition to a participant’s CV and often increases their chances of securing permanent employment after completing the programme.
What You Can Expect During the Programme
Successful applicants may perform various retail duties depending on the business needs of their assigned store.
Responsibilities may include:
- Assisting customers with purchases
- Providing excellent customer service
- Welcoming customers into the store
- Replenishing shelves
- Merchandising products
- Keeping the store clean and organised
- Assisting with stock receiving
- Packing merchandise
- Helping with promotional displays
- Supporting experienced team members
- Learning company procedures
- Following workplace safety standards
- Assisting with general store operations
- Working as part of a retail team
- Completing daily operational tasks
The exact responsibilities will vary depending on the store and department.
Skills You Will Develop
During the 12-month programme, participants have the opportunity to develop many valuable workplace skills, including:
Customer Service Skills
Learn how to communicate professionally with customers while delivering excellent service.
Communication Skills
Improve verbal and written communication by working with customers, supervisors, and colleagues every day.
Teamwork
Retail environments rely heavily on teamwork. Participants learn how to work effectively with different people.
Problem Solving
Develop the ability to assist customers and resolve everyday workplace challenges.
Time Management
Learn how to manage tasks efficiently while working in a busy retail environment.
Professionalism
Understand workplace ethics, punctuality, responsibility, and accountability.
Retail Knowledge
Gain practical knowledge of retail operations, merchandising, stock management, and sales support.
These transferable skills are valuable across many industries, not just retail.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be between 18 and 28 years old
- Matric is preferred
- Be available to work on a 12-month fixed-term contract
- Must not have been permanently employed by one employer continuously for more than one year
- Must not be studying full-time during the employment period (April 2026 to March 2027)
- Must not have previously participated in or been registered for the YES Programme
- Must be able to arrange their own accommodation where applicable
- Must be able to arrange their own transport where applicable
Applicants who meet these requirements are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for:
- Unemployed South African youth
- School leavers
- Matric graduates
- First-time job seekers
- Young people looking to build retail careers
- Individuals seeking practical work experience
- Candidates wanting to improve their employability
Even if you have limited work experience, this programme provides an excellent opportunity to gain exposure in a professional working environment.
Benefits of Joining the TFG YES Programme
Participants may enjoy several benefits, including:
- 12 months of practical workplace experience
- Exposure to one of South Africa’s leading retailers
- Professional work environment
- Valuable customer service experience
- Improved communication skills
- Retail operations training
- Merchandising experience
- Stock handling experience
- Workplace confidence
- Networking opportunities
- Stronger CV
- Better future employment prospects
The experience gained can help participants compete more effectively for future job opportunities.
Employment Equity
The Foschini Group is committed to transformation and employment equity.
Preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from designated groups in accordance with the Employment Equity Act.
Programme Location
Western Cape, South Africa
Applicants should be willing to work at TFG stores or business locations within the province.
Contract Duration
12-Month Fixed-Term Contract
Why Choose a Career in Retail?
Retail is one of South Africa’s largest employment sectors and offers excellent opportunities for career growth. Many retail professionals begin as sales assistants or general store employees before progressing into supervisory, management, buying, merchandising, logistics, and head office roles.
By joining TFG through the YES Programme, participants gain first-hand exposure to one of the country’s most respected retail organisations while developing practical skills that remain valuable throughout their careers.
Application Tips
Before applying:
- Prepare an updated CV.
- Ensure your contact details are correct.
- Keep copies of your qualifications and identification document ready.
- Double-check that you meet all the eligibility requirements.
- Submit your application as early as possible.
Incomplete applications or those that do not meet the programme requirements may not be considered.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should apply through The Foschini Group (TFG) Careers portal by completing the online application form and submitting the required supporting documents.
As recruitment may close once enough suitable applications have been received, early applications are strongly encouraged.
Final Thoughts
The TFG YES Youth Opportunity Programme 2026/2027 is more than just a temporary job—it is a chance to gain meaningful work experience, develop professional skills, and take the first step toward a successful career.
For unemployed young South Africans looking to enter the workforce, this programme offers a supportive environment where participants can learn, grow, and build confidence while working for one of South Africa’s leading retail companies.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and are committed to learning and developing your career, don’t miss this opportunity to apply.
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