Job seekers share their challenges

Rekeditswe Maphoto from Parkrand, who matriculated from Boksburg High in 2024, shared her struggles in finding a job without any experience.

The 19-year-old is actively looking for an entry-level job, which has been hard because she is not qualified for anything

“I have considered roles like being an au pair and am open to positions where my skills could be transferable. I am also exploring training opportunities.

“I’ve been sending out my CV and using LinkedIn, but the job market is very competitive, and many people are applying for the same roles. It makes it even harder to get noticed. Still, I stay motivated by reminding myself of my long-term goals.

“I hoped to study medicine, but unfortunately did not get the marks I needed to qualify. I am planning to study next year, though.

Maphoto said this experience has been difficult and is taking a toll on her mental health.

“Staying at home all day without a routine is tough. I have not reached out to support services yet, but I believe the government should do more to create job opportunities for young people like me. We are ready to work; we just need a chance,” she said.

Twenty-seven-year-old mom Niqueta Hussain from Boksburg is fully qualified and has over four years of solid experience in financial analysis, admin, transactional management and customer service, but has been struggling for over a year to find employment.

“I hold an NQF Level 5 National Certificate in banking and have a strong background in dealing with customers and meeting business goals.

“I carefully tailor each cover letter to match the job specifications and market my skills to employers in different industries – from banking and insurance to pharma and retail. Despite this, I still struggle to find a job.”

One of the toughest setbacks Niqueta faced was being rejected by the company that trained and certified her, where she also gained experience.

“I applied for four different positions there, roles I was qualified for and capable of doing, and I was not successful in any of them. It was heartbreaking.

“If the company that helped shape me rejected me, why would anybody else view me as an asset?”

Another challenge for Niqueta is that most jobs are too far from home.

“I need to work close to home in Boksburg, to be near my children when they start crèche, especially if there is an emergency.

“Some days I feel hopeless, but then I look at my children and remind myself why I started. I take a breath, refocus and keep going.”

Her family is her biggest motivation and the reason she is pushing so hard to find a stable, reliable job.

“At the end of the day, my family is my purpose. They make me more committed, more determined, and more reliable. I am an asset, and I won’t let anyone, not even myself, believe otherwise.”