South African food manufacturer AVI Limited, through its well-known seafood division I&J, has officially opened applications for its YES4Youth opportunity for 2026. The programme offers unemployed young people a 12-month structured workplace experience aimed at improving employability and building real industry exposure.
With applications closing on 30 April 2026, the opportunity is expected to attract large interest from youth seeking their first formal workplace experience.
Unlike short-term training courses, this programme focuses on real operational exposure inside a functioning business environment.
A 12-Month Workplace Exposure Programme for Young South Africans
The YES4Youth opportunity at I&J is designed as a structured work experience placement, giving participants access to real business operations within one of South Africa’s established seafood producers.
The programme is not positioned as a traditional learnership, but rather as a workplace readiness initiative that builds practical experience over a 12-month period.
Participants will gain exposure to:
- Day-to-day workplace operations
- Manufacturing and production environments
- Team-based work systems
- Basic professional workplace expectations
- Industry-standard practices
For many young job seekers, this type of experience can significantly strengthen future employment opportunities.
Why This YES4Youth Opportunity Matters
Youth unemployment remains a major challenge in South Africa, especially for those without experience.
Programmes like YES4Youth are important because they help bridge the gap between education and employment by giving young people:
- First-time workplace exposure
- Improved CV strength
- Industry familiarity
- Professional confidence
- Practical job readiness
Even a single year of structured experience can improve future job prospects.
Sometimes, one opportunity is enough to shift a career direction.
About AVI Limited and I&J
AVI Limited is one of South Africa’s leading consumer goods companies, with a diverse portfolio of food and beverage brands.
Its seafood division, I&J, is one of the country’s most recognised names in the fishing and seafood industry, with a long operational history and strong reputation in both local and export markets.
The company is known for products such as Cape Hake and Abalone, and it places emphasis on sustainability, responsible fishing practices, and modern production systems.
This makes the programme especially valuable for youth interested in manufacturing, logistics, or production environments.
Who Can Apply for the YES4Youth Programme?
Applicants must meet all eligibility requirements before applying.
Minimum requirements include:
- Age between 18 and 34 years
- Minimum education: Grade 10 completed
- Must be unemployed
- Must not have previously participated in YES4Youth
- Must not be enrolled in any government-funded training programme
Meeting all requirements is essential, as incomplete or ineligible applications will not be considered.
Documents Required for Application
Applicants must submit a complete set of supporting documents, including:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID (not older than 3 months)
- Certified copy of highest qualification (not older than 3 months)
- SARS document or tax letter
- Certified bank statement or stamped bank account confirmation (not older than 3 months)
Each document must be clear, valid, and correctly certified.
Missing or outdated documents may result in automatic disqualification.
Where Successful Candidates Will Be Placed
The programme is based in Cape Town, Western Cape.
Participants may be placed across various operational sites within I&J, depending on business needs.
This may include exposure to:
- Production environments
- Warehouse and logistics areas
- Operational support departments
Applicants should consider transport and daily travel arrangements before applying.
Application Process and Submission Method
Applications must be submitted through the official online recruitment system.
A WhatsApp application option is also available:
- Save number: 060 011 9717
- Send message: “HI”
- Follow automated instructions
The WhatsApp option provides a simpler mobile-friendly application route for many job seekers.
Closing Date for Applications
The closing date for this opportunity is:
30 April 2026
Early submission is strongly recommended to avoid last-minute delays, document errors, or system issues.
Selection and Screening Process
Shortlisted candidates may go through several screening stages, including:
- Background checks
- Criminal record verification
- Qualification verification
- Medical assessment (if required)
Applicants are encouraged to ensure all submitted information is accurate and up to date.
Incorrect or misleading information may lead to disqualification.
Why This Opportunity Can Be a Career Starting Point
Many young South Africans struggle to enter the job market due to a lack of experience.
This programme provides a structured way to gain that experience inside a real business environment.
Benefits may include:
- Stronger CV profile
- Workplace discipline
- Exposure to real operations
- Increased employability
- Better understanding of industry expectations
Even though it is not a permanent job, the experience gained can influence future career opportunities significantly.
Final Advice for Applicants
Before applying, candidates should:
- Confirm they meet all requirements
- Prepare all documents in advance
- Ensure certification is valid
- Update and format CV properly
- Double-check all uploaded files
A well-prepared application can make a strong impression in a competitive pool of applicants.
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FAQ
What is the YES4Youth programme at I&J?
It is a 12-month workplace experience programme offering youth exposure to real operations in the seafood industry.
Who can apply?
Unemployed South Africans aged 18–34 with at least Grade 10.
Is this a learnership?
No. It is a work experience programme, not a formal learnership.
Where is the programme based?
The programme is based in Cape Town, Western Cape.
What is the closing date?
Applications close on 30 April 2026.
