JumpStart Retail Frontline Programme 2025 / 2026
JumpStart Retail Frontline Programme 2025 / 2026
The JumpStart Retail Frontline Programme (RFP) is an initiative supported by the Mr Price Foundation to help unemployed South African youth gain the skills and work exposure needed to access entry-level opportunities in the retail sector. This programme is aimed at equipping participants with essential life skills, workplace readiness, and practical retail experience.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be South African citizens.
- Be between 18 and 33 years old.
- Hold a Grade 12 (matric) certificate.
- Be currently unemployed.
- Have a clear criminal record.
These criteria ensure that opportunities are focused on unemployed youth who are actively seeking entry into the job market.
Programme Structure
The Retail Frontline Programme runs over a short but intensive two-week period. It consists of:
- Life Skills and Online Readiness Training
Participants begin with online training that covers essential personal development skills. This includes communication, time management, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and teamwork. - Face-to-Face Sessions and Interviews
After completing the online component, learners attend in-person training sessions and participate in structured interviews designed to prepare them for workplace expectations. - Retail Work Experience
Learners then spend one week gaining hands-on work experience in a retail environment. This exposure helps them understand customer service, sales processes, and store operations.
Benefits of the Programme
While the programme does not guarantee employment, participants benefit in several ways:
- Improved readiness for the workplace.
- Exposure to practical, real-world retail environments.
- A certificate of participation to include in a CV.
- Enhanced prospects of securing entry-level roles in retail.
By bridging the gap between education and the job market, the programme helps young people build confidence and improve employability.
Application and Costs
- The programme is free of charge, and applicants are not required to pay any fees.
- Applications are submitted online through the official Mr Price Foundation platforms or approved application portals.
- Supporting documents such as a certified ID copy and matric certificate may be required.
How to apply
The JumpStart Retail Frontline Programme 2025 / 2026 is one of several initiatives aimed at tackling youth unemployment in South Africa. By combining life skills training with retail work experience, it creates opportunities for young people to take their first steps toward building sustainable careers in the retail industry.
