Leap of faith pays off

Unemployment continues to be a pressing issue in South Africa, especially among the youth. According to Statistics South Africa, the youth unemployment rate stands at 45.5%. Data, however, also shows that young people with work experience are four times more likely to find employment than those without. This highlights the importance of initiatives such as internships, experiential learning and apprenticeships, which are proving vital in equipping the youth with skills needed in today's job market.

- Cecilia Mogashoa

One such success story is that of Brian Shongwane, a media studies graduate from the University of Limpopo. He was fortunate to secure an internship immediately after graduation, allowing him to gain a foothold in the traditional job market. This opportunity later led him to a role as a corporate content creator and social media manager at a group of companies.