.png)
Sep 17, 2019
Youth unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges facing South Africa today. With an unemployment rate exceeding 27%, the country is grappling with the sobering reality that millions of young people are without work and opportunities. Among the 3 million unemployed, the majority are under 35, and every day they wake up without the means to earn a living. This lack of opportunity leads to despair, hopelessness, and a loss of dignity. However, amid this challenge, there is hope — and that hope is embodied in initiatives like Lulaway.
South Africa's unemployment crisis is multifaceted, deeply rooted in political, economic, and social issues. As millions of young people struggle to find jobs, many are left unaware of the opportunities available to them. They lack access to vital information on job openings and often don't know where to start looking for employment. This lack of access and information creates a cycle of hopelessness that prevents many young South Africans from taking their first step into the world of work.
The idea behind Lulaway is simple yet powerful — create a visible network of job centers in local communities where young people can access job information and get connected with employers. Lulaway has developed an online platform that allows job seekers to create profiles, get screened, and gain access to job opportunities from employers. This platform has proven to be a game changer for many young South Africans who otherwise wouldn’t know where to start their job search.
Since its inception, Lulaway has helped over 40,000 people secure employment, and the impact continues to grow. The company currently places about 800 people into jobs every month and has developed a database of 43,000 job seekers. With over 250 job centers in operation, Lulaway has created a visible network that makes it easier for young people to access job opportunities, giving them hope and a pathway to employment.
One of the biggest challenges faced by job placement organizations is the high turnover rate among newly employed individuals. However, Lulaway has found a solution to this problem by offering pre-employment training. When job seekers undergo a one-day induction or training session before starting their jobs, they are significantly more likely to remain employed long-term. In fact, Lulaway has seen a 10-15% increase in job retention simply by ensuring that candidates are properly prepared for the work environment.
Lulaway’s vision is to create systemic change in South Africa by dramatically reducing youth unemployment and poverty. By offering young people access to jobs, training, and support, Lulaway is not just providing employment — they are restoring dignity and hope. The organization envisions a South Africa where the majority of young people contribute to building the nation, rather than remaining sidelined by unemployment.
The long-term goal is ambitious, but Lulaway is committed to placing as many young people into jobs as possible. Through their efforts, they hope to create a ripple effect that will have a lasting impact on the country’s economic and social landscape.
Lulaway’s work is a shining example of how innovative solutions can tackle one of South Africa’s most pressing issues. By connecting job seekers with employers, providing essential training, and fostering a network of accessible job centers, Lulaway is giving young South Africans the opportunity to thrive. Their work not only changes lives but also creates a future where young people are empowered to contribute to their communities and the country as a whole.
As South Africa continues to face the challenge of youth unemployment, initiatives like Lulaway offer hope — a hope that, with the right support, the next generation can overcome the odds and build a better, more prosperous future for themselves and their families.
.png)
.png)