Hyundai’s Youth Learnership Draws Unprecedented Interest

Hyundai Automotive South Africa has captured the attention of young job seekers nationwide, with a record 33 000 applications submitted for its Youth Employment Service (YES) learnership programme.

The sheer scale of the response underscores both the urgency of youth unemployment and the company’s growing reputation as an employer of choice.
About 5 000 applications were lodged within the first hour of entries opening, reflecting the strong demand for workplace opportunities. Human Resources Director Christine Masinga noted that the surge demonstrates Hyundai’s connection with younger South Africans.

“We received a remarkable 21 058 applications from Gauteng, 9 161 from KwaZulu-Natal and 2 845 from the Western Cape. This surge not only reflects our reputation as one of the leading automotive players but our commitment to empowering the next generation with meaningful workplace opportunities,” Christine says.

The 12-month programme, which begins today, is open to candidates aged 18 to 34 and offers placements across Sales, IT, HR, Marketing, Aftersales, and national dealerships. On average, 150 participants are taken on each year, with around 30% securing permanent employment afterwards. Hyundai’s internal 2025/2026 data also shows the brand resonates strongly with younger buyers, particularly in entry-level and crossover SUV segments.

Recruitment was driven by a digital-first strategy, with Human Resource Business Partner Tshiamo Sedikane emphasising the role of social platforms and targeted campaigns in reaching applicants. “Our approach meets young people where they are, using social platforms and targeted campaigns to create accessibility and a more human connection than traditional recruitment.”