Risehub SA champions local youth and small businesses
With youth unemployment stubbornly at 46.1%, Risehub SA Community Forum is stepping up in Ward 112, creating pathways to jobs, training, and economic empowerment for residents.
As youth unemployment continues to cast a long shadow over South Africa, Midrand-based Risehub SA Community Forum is turning concern into action.
With nearly half of the country’s young people out of work, the organisation is championing local solutions that empower youth, support small businesses, and put community members at the centre of economic development.
Risehub SA has been actively engaging government offices, schools, retailers, residential complexes, and construction stakeholders across Ward 112, advocating for job creation, youth empowerment, and local economic participation.
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According to Statistics South Africa, young people remain the most vulnerable group in the labour market. The second quarter of 2025 results show that the number of unemployed youth increased by 39 000 to 4.9m compared to the first quarter, while youth employment rose marginally by 31 000 to 5.7m. As a result, the youth unemployment rate remained unchanged at a worrying 46.1%.
As part of its outreach programme, the forum visited the Office of the Chief Justice and Constitutional Hill, where it engaged supply chain officials and human resources management to present its organisational profile and explore opportunities for community involvement in procurement and employment processes.
Risehub SA chairperson Rammitsa Max Jacobs said the forum also visited Region A municipal offices to engage the ward councillor and urban coordinator on employment opportunities and coordinated ward development initiatives.
“While these discussions are ongoing, the organisation remains committed to consistent follow-up through the proper channels to ensure that commitments translate into real opportunities for local people,” said Jacobs.
In the education sector, Risehub SA has partnered with five public schools within Ward 112, submitting its profile to be considered for inclusion in school supply chains.
Also read: Midrand forum takes fight against unemployment to government, schools and business
Jacobs further highlighted successful engagement with Curro, where collaboration with the school’s main contractor, Bauen Construction, resulted in subcontracting opportunities for local businesses. “Additional outreach efforts included engagements with local retailers, various construction sites across Midrand, and attempts to engage [real estate developer] Cosmopolitan regarding subcontracting opportunities near Vodacom.”
The forum has also worked closely with residential complexes to promote lawful employment practices and encourage local hiring. Residents are urged to engage with the forum regarding any household or community initiatives that could create opportunities for local labour.
“We remain committed to advocating for inclusive, community-centred development that truly uplifts local communities.”
Contact Risehub SA Community Forum on 077 468 9224.
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