The Transformative Power of The Y.E.S Initiative For SA's Future

Nurturing Potential, Instilling Hope, Building a More Inclusive and Empowered Society

By Pearl Dippenaar, Y.E.S. Programme Implementation Manager at The BEE Chamber

In South Africa, the harsh reality of 17 million youths, with a staggering 6.5 million facing unemployment, paints a stark picture. This issue stems from immense wealth disparities, a concerning 56% of students exiting education without a matric qualification, and a demand for jobs surpassing available opportunities.

The birth of the Youth Employment Service (Y.E.S.), heralded by His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa on March 27, 2018, and formalised as Notice 502 under Gazette #41866 on August 28, 2018, aimed to reshape this landscape.

By striving to create job prospects for a million individuals, specifically ‘Black’ individuals aged 18 to 35, the Y.E.S. initiative signalled a collaborative effort involving government, businesses, and labour. Supported by legislation offering scorecard enhancements to organisations fulfilling Y.E.S. commitments over 12 months, this initiative enables organisations to meet their Y.E.S. targets by sponsoring a Y.E.S. employee to any business for a full 12-month contract.

The Y.E.S. platform accepts registrations from businesses, candidates, training service providers, and Y.E.S. facilitators. It is a monitored process with checkpoints validating Y.E.S. employees’ activities, ensuring meticulous record-keeping aligned with the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, and substantiating claims for Employee Tax Incentives. A Y.E.S. employee can claim up to 50% of informal skills development expenditures under categories F and G on the skills development scorecard. However, it is crucial to avoid double dipping in skills development claims on the B-BBEE scorecard.

Benefits To Y.E.S. Employees

The Y.E.S. initiative offers mutual benefits for both Y.E.S. employees and hosting organisations. Apart from meeting the B-BBEE Scorecard criteria, organisations have two core responsibilities towards a Y.E.S. employee: providing valuable work experience and ensuring fair treatment aligned with employment laws. South Africa’s Constitution, especially its Bill of Rights, forms the bedrock of labour law, safeguarding the rights of all individuals.

A prevalent misconception portrays Y.E.S. employees as easily directed labour resources. However, they possess identical rights and protections as any other employee within an organisation. Hence, it is imperative for organisations to acknowledge and uphold these rights within the initiative’s framework. Several employment laws, including the Labour Relations Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Employment Equity Act, and others, pertain to Y.E.S. employees.

Ensuring parity in employment terms for all employees is crucial. Discriminatory practices against Y.E.S. employees might result in legal repercussions, underscoring the necessity for equitable treatment as mandated by the Constitution and employment regulations.

The Y.E.S. initiative mandates a 12-month fixed contract with at least a minimum wage. A comprehensive employment contract outlining work hours, leave entitlements, and adherence to sector-specific conditions is vital for legal compliance.

Acclimating Y.E.S. employees to organisational policies and procedures is pivotal. This not only forestalls disputes but also ensures uniform treatment in cases of misconduct or performance issues. While the Y.E.S. initiative is not a solitary remedy for youth unemployment, it embodies a constructive alliance between government and business, demanding equitable treatment and adherence to legal frameworks to prevent exploitation of Y.E.S. employees.

Benefits Offered By The Y.E.S. Programme to Employees

• A 12-month employment agreement

• Valuable work exposure.

• Clear information about the continuation of the employment contract. By the ninth month of the contract, a Y.E.S. employee will most likely receive notification regarding their retention in the current position.

• Continuous Monitoring and Evaluation from Y.E.S 4 Youth.

• Free access to an employee wellness programme known as Mindful Matters

• Access to Work readiness modules is accessible from the mobile phones issued by Y.E.S 4 Youth.

• A CV, reference letter, and certificate when the Y.E.S. employees complete their 12-month workplace experience

Prerequisites for Organisations to Participate in The Y.E.S. Programme

• The offered position must be newly established.

• Employees must fall within the age range of 18 to 35 and be classified as ‘Black’ individuals according to the definition under the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act.

• Organisations must either uphold or enhance their prior year’s B-BBEE status level.

• The organisation should register with YES4Youth NPC to benefit from the B-BBEE level-up enhancements offered by the Y.E.S. programme.

  Specific Scorecard Criteria Per Threshold

• For large enterprises, fulfil the 40% sub-minimum criteria in the three priority elements—ownership, skills development, and enterprise and supplier development—or achieve an average of 50% across these elements.

• For Qualifying Small Enterprises (QSEs): Meet the 40% sub-minimum requisites across two priority elements— ownership being one and either skills development or enterprise and supplier development—or achieve an average of 40% across these elements.

• Exempt microenterprises (EMEs) do not have any specific qualifying criteria.

Unlocking growth: The Transformative Benefits of The YES Initiative for Companies

The Y.E.S. Initiative in South Africa offers several benefits to a company’s B-BBEE Scorecard, contributing significantly to its enhancement.Here are the key advantages:

Scorecard Improvement:

Increased B-BBEE Recognition: Participation in the Y.E.S. Initiative allows companies to boost their B-BBEE ratings by significant margins. Engaging in Y.E.S. initiatives can enable companies to progress up by one or even two levels on the B-BBEE Scorecard, reflecting a commitment to transformation and inclusivity.

Meeting Priority Elements:

Fulfilment of key priority elements: Y.E.S. participation aids in meeting essential priority elements, such as skills development, ownership, and enterprise and supplier development.For large enterprises, Y.E.S. helps fulfil sub-minimum requirements in these elements or attain an average of 50% across these critical criteria.

Recruitment Pipeline and Succession Planning:

Talent Pool Creation: Beyond mere compliance, the Y.E.S. Initiative can strategically assist companies in building a robust recruitment pipeline. Through Y.E.S., organisations can cultivate a pool of skilled and trained young black individuals who can potentially be absorbed into the company’s workforce. This serves as an integral part of succession planning, facilitating a smoother transition of capable individuals into key roles within the organisation.

Long-Term Socio-Economic Impact:

Contribution to Social Development: By engaging in the Y.E.S. initiative, companies actively contribute to societal development by empowering and uplifting the youth. This not only aids in fulfilling corporate social responsibility but also fosters a culture of social development and economic inclusivity.

Favourable Public Perception:

Positive Brand Image: Participation in initiatives like Y.E.S. tends to enhance a company’s brand image and reputation. It showcases a commitment to empowering the youth and fostering economic development, resonating positively with various stakeholders, including customers, investors, and the public.

Sustainable Business Practices:

Supports Sustainable Practices: Encouraging youth employment through Y.E.S. reflects a dedication to sustainable business practices. By creating opportunities for youth, companies contribute to building a sustainable workforce for the future. The Y.E.S. Initiative does not just provide short-term benefits in meeting compliance; it aligns with companies’ long-term objectives by enhancing their B-BBEE ratings, aiding in talent development, and fostering a positive impact on society and the economy at large.

The Future Trajectory of the Y.E.S. Initiative in South Africa

In the intricate fabric of South Africa’s societal landscape, the shadow of youth unemployment looms large. Amid this challenge, the Y.E.S. initiative emerges as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformative change. Conceived with a resolute vision to tackle the dire issue of joblessness among the country’s youth, the Y.E.S. initiative has achieved commendable milestones since its inception. However, the true power and promise of this programme lie in its trajectory towards the future.

The Y.E.S. initiative in South Africa has emerged as a critical force in addressing the pervasive issue of youth unemployment. As we reflect on the profound impact of the Y.E.S. initiative, it becomes evident that its significance extends far beyond merely creating job opportunities. It has fundamentally altered the landscape of socio-economic development, fostering empowerment, skill enhancement, and economic inclusivity.

One of the most remarkable facets of the Y.E.S. initiative is its collaborative nature. It serves as a unifying platform, bringing together governmental agencies, private enterprises, and labour organisations in a concerted effort to combat the pressing challenge of youth joblessness. This collaborative approach has been instrumental in propelling its success, leveraging diverse expertise and resources towards a common goal.

The Y.E.S. initiative has substantially contributed to bridging the gap between education and employment for youth. Through its initiatives, it has provided avenues for young individuals to gain invaluable work experience, often considered a significant barrier for fresh graduates entering the job market. This exposure not only enhances their employability but also equips them with practical skills that are essential for professional growth.

Beyond the quantitative measure of job placements, the Y.E.S. initiative stands as a beacon of hope for empowerment. By focusing on skills development, mentorship, and training programmes, it has empowered young individuals to become self-reliant and resourceful. The programme’s impact is not confined to the individuals it directly employs; it radiates through communities, fostering a culture of growth and progress.

Moreover, the Y.E.S. initiative has played a pivotal role in fostering economic inclusivity. By prioritising the employment of young black South Africans, the initiative has strived to address historical imbalances and create opportunities for those who have traditionally faced barriers to entry into the job market. This deliberate focus on inclusivity is not just about meeting quotas but about creating a fair and equitable playing field for all.

The programme’s success also lies in its ability to adapt and evolve. It has embraced technological advancements, leveraging digital platforms and innovative solutions to enhance accessibility and efficiency in job placements. The Y.E.S. initiative has constantly sought ways to align with the evolving needs of industries, tailoring training programmes to meet market demands and ensuring the youth are equipped with relevant skills.

However, challenges persist. While the Y.E.S. initiative has made substantial strides, the scale of youth unemployment remains a formidable obstacle. The programme’s future success hinges on sustained efforts to scale its impact, expand its reach, and navigate through economic fluctuations and evolving job market dynamics.

Evolutionary strategies to augment Impact

Contemplating the future, the essence of the Y.E.S. initiative rests on the evolution of strategies that amplify its influence. The initiative’s success hinges not solely on meeting fleeting employment quotas but rather on sculpting enduring, sustainable prospects for the youth.

1. Strengthening Collaborative Ventures

The core of the Y.E.S. initiative’s future journey necessitates a deeper entwining of public and private collaborations. It requires nurturing robust partnerships across diverse business sectors and harnessing their expertise, resources, and reach to sculpt an intricate tapestry of employment opportunities.

2. Tech Integration and Innovation as Catalysts

The trajectory forward demands a bold embrace of technological advancements. By leveraging digital platforms and innovative solutions, the Y.E.S. initiative can streamline operations, enhance accessibility, and bridge the divide between aspiring job seekers and available opportunities, especially in burgeoning sectors.

3. Nurturing Skills and Training Fortitude

Empowering youth with relevant, market-aligned skills remains pivotal. The Y.E.S. initiative must pivot focus towards tailored training initiatives, cultivating abilities that not only match industry needs but also foster readiness for employment and future career ascendancy.

4. Unveiling Diverse Employment Arenas

While the Y.E.S. initiative has carved significant inroads in conventional job avenues, unlocking alternative pathways such as entrepreneurship, apprenticeships, and internships holds promise. This diversification opens a spectrum of experiences and sustainable employment avenues.

Embracing Inclusivity and Sustainable Visions

Central to the Y.E.S. initiative’s future expedition is an unwavering commitment to inclusivity and sustainability. Equality in access and opportunity becomes the cornerstone. Additionally, the initiative’s evolution towards environmentally conscious job creation underlines its dedication to sustainable practices.

The Future Beckons Brightly for Y.E.S.

The Y.E.S. initiative stands at a crucial crossroad, poised to engrave an even more indelible mark on South Africa’s socio-economic terrain. By aligning with evolving market demands, fostering unparalleled collaboration, driving innovation, and championing inclusivity and sustainability, the Y.E.S. initiative holds the potent key to unlocking the untapped potential of the nation’s youth, steering South Africa towards a future brimming with prosperity and equity.

Reflecting on the Y.E.S. initiative’s profound impact illuminates its role as a transformative force in South Africa. It is not just about creating jobs; it is about nurturing potential, instilling hope, and building a more inclusive and empowered society. The programme’s legacy is not merely measured in statistics but in the lives it has transformed, the aspirations it has kindled, and the foundation it has laid for a more prosperous future for the nation’s youth.