The Mr Price Foundation has opened applications for its JumpStart Retail Frontline Programme (RFP), a national youth development initiative designed to prepare unemployed South Africans for entry-level retail jobs. The two-week programme focuses on work readiness, customer service and in-store retail experience which gives young people a pathway into one of the country’s biggest employment sectors.
Highlights
- Free 2-week retail training programme
- For unemployed youth aged 18-33
- Matric required, no work experience needed
- Includes online and in-store retail experience
- National programme offered in selected areas
- Run by Mr Price Foundation (not a job but a work readiness opportunity)
- Applications now open – limited intake
Preparing youth for retail jobs
The programme is part of Mr Price Foundation’s effort to tackle youth unemployment by giving young people skills and work exposure. South Africa’s retail sector remains one of the country’s biggest job creators. This programme is designed to connect youth to real job opportunities within the Mr Price Group and its retail partners.
Participants spend one week online learning essential life and employability skills, followed by a week of practical retail training, which may include in-store experience and job interviews.
What the programme includes
Week 1 – Online Training
- Workplace readiness
- Personal presentation
- Communication skills
- Problem solving
- Time management
- Conflict resolution
- Emotional intelligence
- CV and interview basics
Week 2 – Practical Retail Experience
- Retail basics and customer service
- Cash handling exposure
- Merchandising principles
- Health and safety awareness
- Store operations
- Interview opportunities with partner retailers
Who can apply
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 18-33 |
| Education | Matric / Grade 12 |
| Employment Status | Must be currently unemployed |
| Citizenship | South African |
| Criminal Record | None |
| Other | Must have 200MB data + smartphone/computer to complete online training |
Results so far
The programme has already made a measurable impact:
| Impact Area | Result (FY2025) |
|---|---|
| Youth trained | 9,021 |
| Youth employed | 6,316 |
| Absorption rate | 70% |
While job placement is not guaranteed, many successful candidates go on to work for retail brands within the Mr Price Group, including Mr Price Apparel, Mr Price Home, Mr Price Sport and Sheet Street.
How to apply
Applications are submitted online. Placement depends on opportunities available in your area, and applicants must first check if training is available using their postcode.
Keep in mind that there is no closing date announced, but intakes fill by area, so applying early is recommended.
Experienced career development professional with a background in student administration and guidance across several South African universities. Over the years, I have supported students in shaping their academic and professional journeys, providing career counselling, employability training, and placement support. I now focus on helping young graduates successfully transition from university or college into the workplace, bridging the gap between education and employment through practical guidance and career-readiness initiatives.