Cape Town 2026: Cape Union Mart International YES Program
Are you a young South African looking for your first real work experience in 2026? The YES Programme offered by Cape Union Mart International in Cape Town could be the opportunity you have been waiting for.
This 12-month fixed-term contract is designed for unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 35 who want to gain valuable retail experience. If you are energetic, motivated, and ready to grow in a professional environment, this programme can help you build a strong foundation for your future.
Retail experience opens doors to many career paths, including sales, customer service, store management, and merchandising. Continue reading to find out how you can qualify and apply before the closing date.
About the Job Opportunity
The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a national initiative aimed at reducing youth unemployment in South Africa. Through this programme, Cape Union Mart International provides structured workplace exposure to young people who are currently unemployed.
Cape Union Mart International is a well-known retail company operating across South Africa. The company focuses on delivering quality products and excellent customer service in its stores. As part of the YES Programme, successful candidates will be placed in a retail store environment within Cape Town.
This opportunity is ideal for entry-level candidates who want hands-on experience in sales and retail operations. You will work in a fast-paced store environment, interact with customers daily, and learn how retail businesses operate from the inside.
The programme runs for 12 months, giving you enough time to develop practical skills, understand workplace expectations, and gain real experience that strengthens your CV.
Job Details
- Job Title: YES Programme Participant
- Company: Cape Union Mart International
- Division: Cape Union Mart
- Business Unit: Stores South
- Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
- Employment Type: 12-month Fixed-Term Contract
- Industry: Retail
- Functional Area: Sales
- Minimum Experience: Entry Level
- Posted Date: 10 February 2026
- Closing Date: 16 February 2026
Key Responsibilities and Duties
- Deliver exceptional customer service by assisting customers in a friendly and professional manner.
- Apply effective sales techniques to promote products and increase store sales.
- Work towards achieving individual sales targets and performance goals.
- Support daily store operations, including opening and closing procedures.
- Assist with unpacking, pricing, and arranging merchandise on the sales floor.
- Maintain store cleanliness and ensure high housekeeping standards.
- Follow visual merchandising guidelines to enhance product presentation.
- Comply with in-store stock loss prevention and shrinkage control procedures.
- Participate in team meetings and contribute to overall store performance.
- Develop communication and teamwork skills through daily collaboration with colleagues.
- Meet all YES Programme milestones and performance expectations throughout the contract period.
Minimum Requirements
- South African youth aged between 18 and 35 years.
- Must have been unemployed from 1 February 2026.
- Matric certificate is preferred but not mandatory.
- Must be available for a full 12-month fixed-term contract.
- Not currently engaged in full-time studies during March 2026 to February 2027.
- must not have taken part in the YES Program before.
- Must be responsible for own accommodation and transportation if required.
- must be able to work in South Africa lawfully.
Skills and Personal Attributes
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Customer-focused attitude with a friendly personality.
- readiness to pick up new skills and adjust to a retail setting.
- Ability to work well within a team.
- Basic numerical skills for handling transactions.
- Reliability and punctuality.
- Positive attitude and professional appearance.
- Ability to stand for extended periods during shifts.
- Good problem-solving skills when dealing with customer queries.
Training, Growth, and Career Development
During the 12-month YES Programme, participants will receive structured on-the-job training in customer service, sales techniques, and retail operations. You will learn how to interact professionally with customers, manage stock, and support business performance.
This experience can significantly improve your employability. Many retail professionals begin their careers through entry-level opportunities like this. By the end of the programme, you will have gained valuable workplace exposure that can help you secure future roles in retail, sales, or customer service industries.
Salary and Benefits Information
The YES Programme offers a monthly stipend aligned with national programme guidelines. While exact salary figures are not specified, compensation is market-related and designed to support participants during the 12-month contract.
In addition to financial support, participants benefit from practical experience, skill development, and exposure to a reputable retail brand. The main advantage of this programme is the opportunity to build real work experience and improve long-term career prospects.
How to Apply
If you meet all eligibility criteria and are eager to begin your career journey, prepare your updated CV and relevant supporting documents. Ensure that your contact details are correct and that you clearly indicate your availability for the full 12-month period.
Send in your application before February 16, 2026, the deadline. Applications that are incomplete or submitted after the deadline might not be accepted. Make sure you carefully review all requirements before submitting your application.
Only those who have been shortlisted may be contacted to proceed with the hiring process.
✔ Apply NowImportant Application Notice
This job post is published for informational purposes only to assist job seekers in South Africa. No fees or payments are required to apply for the YES Programme at Cape Union Mart International. Applicants should be cautious of scams and only apply through official recruitment platforms.
Why You Should Apply for This Job
Youth unemployment remains a major challenge in South Africa. Programmes like the YES initiative provide a practical solution by offering real workplace exposure to young people who need experience to build their careers.
This opportunity allows you to gain hands-on retail experience within a recognised national company. The skills you develop in customer service, sales, teamwork, and communication are transferable across many industries.
If you are serious about building a stable future and want to take your first step into the working world, this programme provides structure, support, and valuable experience that can shape your professional journey.
More Job Opportunities
If this YES Programme opportunity is not the right fit for you, explore more entry-level jobs, internships, and learnerships available on our website. We regularly update our platform with new opportunities across various industries in South Africa.
Check back often, apply early, and take control of your career path today.