#YouthMonth: Employment consultant weighs in on unemployment rate

A local employment consultant, BrightBridge Personnel, has weighed in on the alarming youth unemployment rate.

What are your insights into the underlying causes of the high unemployment rate?
There is very little investment in public infrastructure. While there are projects like the N3 and N2 upgrades in KwaZulu-Natal, regulations require that employment opportunities go to people from specific local areas. This often excludes skilled workers from elsewhere.

Targeted communities may lack the necessary skills, and even when training is provided, it’s short-term. Once the project ends, these individuals often return to unemployment, as they don’t qualify for jobs in the next area.
As a result, many skilled professionals have either given up on the local job market or moved abroad.

Additionally, Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) requirements make it extremely difficult for white candidates to gain employment, even if highly qualified. This has significantly impacted recruitment agencies, as many candidates from this group can’t even get a foot in the door.

What factors do you believe contribute most significantly to unemployment?
Government has failed to create a growth-friendly economic environment. Though officials acknowledge the crisis and make promises, little real action follows.
Corruption and mismanagement further cripple initiatives. Many projects are hijacked by elites who siphon off funds, leaving minimal resources to achieve actual impact—especially in job creation.

Overcoming unemployment
What strategies could help reduce unemployment, especially from a job placement perspective?
Stop handing out grants to able-bodied individuals. Instead, channel that money into job creation—such as city maintenance or clean-up projects.
This would restore dignity through work and open up real pathways to advancement. Right now, too many people lack motivation because the system treats them like dependents. We need to reintroduce a culture of productivity—starting small, even in local factory settings.

Why do people remain unemployed for long periods?
When opportunities are scarce, people lose hope. Many turn to crime, hustle informally, or give up altogether.

Are experience or qualifications a major barrier?
Absolutely. Many have little to no work history, and as time passes, their chances shrink further. They fall behind in both skills and employability.

What support is missing?
Training must be linked to actual job opportunities. It’s pointless to train people with nowhere to go. Ideally, training should happen within a workplace—even if it’s only at a stipend level—so learners gain real, relevant experience.

How does your agency assist youth trying to enter the job market?
It’s tough to place someone straight out of university or college. Employers usually go for top performers or those with standout personalities. We emphasize both academic strength and character when marketing a candidate.

How has AI changed the job landscape?
AI adoption has reduced the need for human staff. Compounding this, labour laws and disruptive workplace politics discourage employers from hiring. AI offers a cleaner, more manageable alternative in many cases.

What advice would you give to someone who has lost confidence after multiple rejections?
If you’re qualified, consider working abroad. Skilled South Africans are in demand globally. Unfortunately, sitting back and hoping things change locally is not a practical strategy.

Tips for young graduates?
Start your job search before graduating. Network early and let potential employers know who you are. Learn about their business, visit their websites, and show genuine interest. Stand out—not just as a job seeker, but as someone who wants that job.

Also Read: Hidden career gems in security services offer hope amid rising youth unemployment