Business Day TV: What SA needs to do to get its young people working

Tackling South Africa’s Youth Unemployment Crisis: Insights from Lulaway CEO Jake Willis

South Africa’s Q1 employment statistics offer a glimmer of hope, showing a modest increase of 56,000 jobs in the non-agricultural sector, bringing the total to 9.8 million employed individuals. However, the country continues to grapple with its staggering unemployment rate, particularly among its youth. More than half of South Africans aged 18 to 24 are unemployed, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions.

In a recent discussion, Jake Willis, CEO of Lulaway, shared valuable insights into the work his organization has been doing to address this crisis. Over the past eight years, Lulaway has successfully placed over 30,000 job seekers into employment and internship opportunities, with a focus on creating more accessible pathways for young people to enter the workforce.

Breaking Down Barriers to Employment

Willis recalls how Lulaway started as an attempt to assist young job seekers frequenting internet cafes in search of work. The challenge was clear: opportunities existed, but the processes connecting job seekers to employers were disorganized and inaccessible.

“Employers often relied on informal networks—friends or family—leading to nepotism and unfit job matches,” Willis explained. “Meanwhile, young people in townships felt hopeless, unable to see the job opportunities around them.”

To counter this, Lulaway established a network of job centers, partnering with existing infrastructure to create accessible hubs where young people could register, complete assessments, and digitize their profiles. This approach streamlined the process, making it easier for employers to find qualified candidates through Lulaway’s innovative online platform.

Alarming Trends in Youth Employment

Despite these advancements, Willis highlighted worrying trends in youth employment. Research conducted by Lulaway revealed that only 50% of pre-qualified candidates show up for interviews, and 30% of those who secure jobs leave within three months.

This phenomenon, Willis suggests, is linked to a mix of factors, including unrealistic expectations and a lack of readiness to embrace entry-level opportunities.

“There’s a culture of entitlement among some young people, expecting to walk into a high-level office job straight out of school,” he said. “But the reality is that many of us started out with humble roles—waiting tables, mopping floors, and working our way up.”

A Call for Action

Willis emphasizes that addressing youth unemployment requires a collective effort. While government initiatives provide financial and structural support, it’s equally crucial for young people to seize opportunities, build resilience, and adapt to workplace realities.

“Let’s start a serious conversation about the responsibilities of job seekers,” he urged. “It’s not just about creating opportunities but also about young people taking those opportunities seriously.”

A Path Forward

Organizations like Lulaway are proving that solutions exist to bridge the gap between job seekers and employers. However, sustainable progress depends on shifting societal mindsets and fostering a culture of accountability and perseverance among young people.

The youth unemployment crisis is daunting, but with innovative approaches, inclusive dialogues, and a shared commitment to change, South Africa can pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future.

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