Five hundred young job seekers will get free Uber rides to their interviews. (Misha Jordaan /Gallo Images)
- Metropolitan has teamed up with Uber to offer free rides to job seekers in South Africa between the ages of 18 and 35.
- The initiative aims to distribute 500 Uber vouchers to young people during June and July to help them attend job-related appointments.
- In addition to supporting 500 job seekers, it will also cater for 50 entrepreneurs, providing them with transportation to enhance employment opportunities.
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To combat rising unemployment rates among the youth in South Africa, Metropolitan has partnered with Uber to launch the Job Seekers Initiative, offering free Uber rides to job seekers.
The programme aims to give 500 Uber vouchers to young people between the ages of 18 and 35 in June and July.
This aims to aid in the commute to employment opportunities, including job interviews, training sessions, induction programmes, and any other meeting related to securing a job.
Head of Brand at Metropolitan James Boulton said the initiative will benefit 500 job seekers and 50 entrepreneurs.
“Metropolitan Collective Shapers supports young people, whether they’re seeking employment opportunities or building their businesses, we are dedicated to empowering the youth to navigate the challenges of today’s economy. This year, over 500 job seekers and 50 entrepreneurs will benefit directly from this programme,” Boulton said.
Addressing youth unemployment
Youth unemployment is an issue South Africa has been grappling with for a long time. Statistics from Stats SA indicate that 45.5% of young people aged between 15 and 34 are unemployed.
While many youth members are unemployed, research has found that young people with some work experience are more successful at moving from unemployment to finding a job than adults. Specifically, 12.3% of these young people find jobs, while only 7.4% of adults do, according to the Labour Market Dynamics in South Africa report for 2022.
To alleviate the pressure and challenges that come with South Africa’s tough economic climate, Metropolitan Collective Shapers will give job seekers and entrepreneurs the opportunity to take advantage of the free rides.
Eligibility criteria
To qualify for the initiative, applicants must be South African citizens aged 18 to 35 and must apply anytime between June and July.
Within the stipulated time frame, eligible youth will receive the vouchers. The service is available nationwide, ensuring broad accessibility and inclusivity across various regions.
How to apply
According to Metropolitan, to apply for the Job Seekers Initiative, individuals must complete an online application form that was shared on various social media channels.
After verification, the Uber voucher will be sent to the applicants’ qualifying cellphone number and can be redeemed via the Uber App.
While the Uber voucher allows for a round trip, it is capped at a certain amount. Vouchers will also be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and applicants will be able to apply for multiple vouchers during the campaign period, provided proof of job interviews is provided.
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