By Gift Mohosane, SAAYC Board Member
Every May, South Africa pauses to honour the workers who keep our economy moving forward. From the early morning minibus driver to the late-night security guard, the teacher shaping young minds to the nurse delivering critical care—these individuals form the backbone of our nation. However, Workers’ Month is not just about remembrance; it is also a moment to reflect on progress, challenge inequality, and renew our collective commitment to justice in the workplace.
At SAAYC, we believe that honouring workers must also prepare the next generation to enter the world of work with dignity, resilience, and agency. A just economy is not built solely on fair wages but on opportunity.
A Legacy of Struggle and Triumph
Workers’ Month is deeply rooted in South Africa’s history. The struggles of mineworkers, factory workers, and domestic workers are woven into our country’s journey towards democracy. From the 1973 Durban strikes to the passing of the Labour Relations Act in 1995, the labour movement played a crucial role in securing the rights we often take for granted today: the right to strike, fair treatment, and safe working conditions.
Let us be clear—these victories were hard-won and paid for through the courage and sacrifice of ordinary people who stood up to extraordinary injustice.
Rights Won—But Not Fully Realised
Today, South Africa’s Constitution and labour laws are among the most progressive in the world. Yet, for many young people trying to enter the labour force, these rights remain theoretical rather than lived experiences. With youth unemployment hovering around 45%, work readiness is not just a buzzword—it is a lifeline.
Far too many young people graduate from school or university only to encounter closed doors and unpaid internships. They are ready to work, eager to learn, and keen to contribute—but the system doesn’t always meet them halfway.
The Voices of Youth
At SAAYC, we work closely with young people enrolled in job-readiness programmes—those who are proactively preparing for the workplace through skills development, mentorship, and entrepreneurship training. Their voices matter.
“I just want a chance to prove what I can do,” says Karabo, a participant in our Youth Employment Accelerator Programme.
“It’s not that we’re not willing to work hard—we just need someone to open a door,” adds Mbali, who is training to become a social worker.
These aren’t just stories—they are calls to action. If Workers’ Month is about honouring labour, it must also be about investing in future workers and ensuring they have a fighting chance to enter the economy.
Building Bridges to Decent Work
This month, we reflect not only on past milestones but also on present challenges. At SAAYC, our approach is holistic. Our programmes equip young people with:
- Professional training and workplace skills
- Digital literacy for an evolving job landscape
- CV writing support, interview preparation, and personal branding
- Exposure to alternative career pathways and entrepreneurship
We are not just preparing job seekers—we are developing future employers, innovators, and changemakers.
A Call to Employers: Partner in Progress
Workers’ Month is also a call to action for employers to be part of the solution. Creating internships, mentorship opportunities, and supportive work environments isn’t just ethically right—it’s economically sound. Young people bring energy, creativity, and fresh thinking that every organisation needs.
We call on businesses, public institutions, and civil society to partner with youth-focused organisations to ensure that the workforce of tomorrow is empowered today.
Workers’ Month: Then, Now, and the Future
We stand on the shoulders of workers who refused to accept exploitation as their destiny. Let us honour them not only through remembrance but through action. By safeguarding workers’ rights, improving working conditions, and creating meaningful opportunities for youth, we secure a future that is inclusive, productive, and fair.
“Honouring workers goes beyond remembrance—it requires building sustainable pathways for youth employment. Empowered and prepared young people are essential to South Africa’s economic and social prosperity” – Gift Mohosane
Let this Workers’ Month be more than a tribute—let it be a turning point. For those who labour. For those still seeking their place. For the South Africa we are building together!
#WorkersMonth | #YouthForChange | #SAAYCWorks
To learn more about SAAYC’s employment readiness and youth empowerment programmes, visit www.saayc.co.za
