• Mastercard has taken up 15 more young South Africans, giving them year-long jobs at local offices where they can gain key experience.
• This is the third year that Mastercard has partnered with YES to upskill local young people.
• South Africa is still struggling with a youth unemployment rate of nearly 50 percent.

It is no secret that South Africa has an unemployment problem, specifically when it comes to the country’s young people. In order to the address the fact that nearly 50 percent of all young adults in the country are struggling to find work, public and private entities are looking to expand opportinties.

One of these is Mastercard, which has announced that it has extended its collaboration with the Youth Employment Service (YES) – a private-sector led youth jobs initiative. This is the third year in a row the two companies have collaborated.

“YES plays a crucial role in equipping young people with essential skills for the workplace, quality work experience, and career opportunities, preparing them for the evolving job market,” an announcement from Mastercard explains.

“Through this continued collaboration, Mastercard and YES are empowering the next generation of leaders and contributing to sustainable economic growth.”

The third year collaboration will see Mastercard accept 15 new young professionals into its workplace in South Africa “providing them with a year of hands-on experience, industry exposure, and critical upskilling opportunities.”

“Empowering youth is the best endowment South Africa can make to ensure a more sustainable future. Young people have the potential to drive economic growth, innovation, and social progress,” said Ravi Naidoo, CEO of YES.

“However, without access to skills and sustainable employment, this potential remains untapped. Our continued partnership with Mastercard reinforces our commitment to equipping young talent with valuable experience in the global payments industry.”

2025’s collaboration with YES sees a few more young people added to the programme compared to last year, where only 12 YES participants were sent to Mastercard to get experience in the workplace.

“By investing in the next generation, we are not only shaping future leaders but also contributing to a more resilient and prosperous economy,” said Gabriel Swanepoel, Country Manager at Mastercard Southern Africa

The South African government recently opened up adverts looking for 10 000 new labour inspector interns across the country. These interns are set to gain an over R7 000 monthly stipend while on the job, which will run for 24 months allowing them to gain important on the job skills and experience.