For Banele Mgwevu, a 28-year-old IT graduate from Etwatwa, struggling to find a job wasn’t just frustrating; it was a wake-up call.

After graduating from Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) in 2022, he spent months applying for positions, facing rejection after rejection. Interviews, in particular, were his biggest challenge.

“I kept thinking, ‘If only I could practice and get feedback before the real interview.’

That’s when the idea for ITSAGO AI came to me, an app that can help job seekers prepare effectively for interviews,” Mgwevu recalled.

He began developing the app in 2024 while unemployed. Later that year, he secured a job, which temporarily paused development.

In 2025, after his company went through retrenchments, he resumed work on the app and completed development on his birthday, August 15.

At that time, the app was only available to him, and he used it to secure employment. He launched it on December 1, the same month he started his current job.

“I initially released a soft version in August to test and refine it. The launch in December was timed so that job seekers could start using it in January, when many South Africans are searching for work,” he explained.

ITSAGO AI, pronounced ‘It’s a go’, reflects the confidence he hopes to give users.

“When someone says, ‘It’s a go,’ it means you’re ready, you’re set, you can start. That’s exactly what I want users to feel, ready to take the next step in their careers.”

What ITSAGO AI Does

Unlike traditional job boards, ITSAGO AI functions as an AI-powered interview coach.

Users can practice real interview questions in a video-based simulation, while the AI analyses tone, confidence, posture, eye contact, and facial expressions. After each session, the app gives actionable feedback to help users refine their answers and overall presentation.

It also allows users to create professional resumes and track their progress. By using real interview data tailored to specific roles, the app offers realistic and relevant practice, especially helpful for first-time job seekers who may feel unprepared.

Mgwevu tested the app himself, and it worked.

“I practiced my interviews, refined my resume, and it helped me land the job I wanted. That was proof that the app can make a difference. The job I have now came partly because of the app, though I was its only user.”

ALSO READ: WATCH: Kids Haven’s Pathways opens doors for vulnerable youth

Overcoming challenges

Building the app was far from easy. Mgwevu started the project alone, juggling development, marketing, and funding.

“There were times I felt discouraged, but quitting was never an option. I learned new skills, wore many hats, and later got help from my co-founder to improve and expand the app.”

He emphasised that accessibility is more important than profit.

“The app is free to download and use, aimed at helping job seekers improve their chances in a tough job market. I want to bridge the gap for the unemployed, especially the youth.”

Mgwevu also plans to make the app open-source, allowing graduates and aspiring developers to contribute while gaining real-world experience.

For him, the journey from being unemployed to creating a tool that could help thousands has been challenging but rewarding.

“It wasn’t easy, but every obstacle taught me that preparation and practice can make a huge difference. That’s why I built the app, to give people the tools to succeed.”

He said the app is available on Android via https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.itsago.interviewai

He is currently looking for sponsors to help grow ITSAGO AI and make it more accessible to job seekers. Interested parties can contact him at 062 526 4769.

ALSO READ: Lakefield hairstylist gets on podium at world champs