Getting your first job is tough. Many employers say you need experience, but you can’t get experience without a job. That’s why the Hyundai YES Programme 2026 is a fresh chance for unemployed young people to step into the workforce right now.
What the programme is all about
The Hyundai YES Programme is a 12‑month workplace learning initiative offered by Hyundai Automotive South Africa, part of Motus Corporation’s Hyundai division. It’s a part of the national Youth Employment Service (YES) and gives you real experience in the automotive industry, from admin to sales to logistics.
Who can apply?
- South African citizen, age 18–34.
- Currently unemployed.
- Have a Grade 12 / Matric certificate.
- No previous participation in a YES Programme.
- Must have a clear criminal record.
- Applications close on 31 March 2026.
The programme runs in three key provinces: Gauteng (Johannesburg), Western Cape (Cape Town), and KwaZulu‑Natal (Durban). Pick the region that suits you.
What you’ll gain
As a learner you’ll be embedded in real business operations. You could:
- Help with record keeping, scheduling and office communication.
- Support sales teams, learn customer engagement and product promotion.
- Assist in finance with invoicing, budgeting and reporting.
- Work alongside technicians in a workshop setting.
- Learn about supply chain, inventory and distribution.
- Get involved in HR tasks like employee documentation.
These tasks build technical and workplace skills that employers value. After a year you’ll leave with a portfolio of real‑world experience and a stronger CV.
How to apply – step by step
- Choose the region that matches where you live or where you want to work.
- Read the requirements carefully to confirm you meet them.
- Prepare a clear CV and gather any supporting documents (Matric certificate, ID, proof of address).
- Apply online through the official Hyundai/Motus careers platform before 31 March 2026.
If you have done volunteering, part‑time work, or helped in a family business, highlight those experiences on your CV – it shows you’re ready to learn.
Practical tips to boost your chances
- Use the correct regional link – don’t mix Johannesburg with Cape Town.
- Show your Matric qualification clearly in the CV.
- Add any extra certificates or training you have.
- Emphasise transferable skills like communication, organisation and teamwork.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last‑minute glitches.
Application links
Final thoughts
Many young people feel stuck when they can’t find a job because they lack experience. The Hyundai YES Programme 2026 offers a structured, mentor‑led pathway to real work exposure that can change that. If you’re a South African citizen aged 18–34, unemployed, and hold a Matric, don’t let this chance slip away. Apply early, prepare a tidy CV, and step into a future where you’re ready for the next opportunity.
