I&J Yes4Youth Programme 2026: Welcoming Unemployed Youths to Obtain Workplace Experience

About I&J
I&J (Irvin & Johnson), founded in 1910 in Cape Town, is a leading South African company internationally recognised for its premium Cape Hake and farmed Cape Abalone. Operating as a fully integrated business, I&J manages the entire production process, from harvesting and processing to distribution. The company is also certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), reflecting its commitment to responsible and sustainable fishing practices. As a Level 1 Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) contributor, I&J is dedicated to driving local economic growth, supporting communities, and creating meaningful employment opportunities across South Africa.

As part of the AVI Group, I&J combines nearly 115 years of heritage with a forward-thinking approach to the fishing industry. It remains a leader in premium seafood production while continuously innovating to meet evolving consumer needs, as seen in products such as Air-Fri’kn Amazing, which offers bold flavours and convenient air-fryer preparation. Employees at I&J have the opportunity to work within a globally trusted brand, contribute to sustainability-driven initiatives, and participate in programmes that support and uplift local communities. This creates a workplace where professional growth and social responsibility are closely connected.

About the I&J Yes4Youth Programme 2026
I&J is currently searching for candidates who would like to improrve their skills and gain practical workplace experience with their Yes4Youth Programme. The I&J Yes4Youth Programme is structured to offer meaningful workplace exposure while actively supporting the development of young individuals within the organisation. Through this initiative, participants are given the opportunity to engage in real work environments, allowing them to gain practical insight into industry operations and build relevant workplace skills.

It is important to clarify that the programme is not classified as a learnership. Instead, it is focused on providing hands-on work experience that enhances employability. By participating in on-the-job training, candidates are able to strengthen their competencies and improve their readiness for future career opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria
Applicants intending to apply for the I&J Yes4Youth Programme are encouraged to carefully review all eligibility requirements before submitting their applications. These criteria are used as the main basis for assessing whether candidates are suitably qualified for the position and are strictly applied during the selection process. To improve your chances of being shortlisted, it is advisable to meet all listed requirements, as failing to do so may weaken your application.

The I&J Yes4Youth Programme Eligibility Criteria are as follows:

• Motivated young individuals seeking to build skills and gain work experience
• Must be unemployed youth aged 18–34 years
• Must have completed at least Grade 10 (Standard 8)
• Selected candidates will join a 12-month I&J Work Employment Programme
• Successful applicants will be placed at an I&J site.

Application Instructions
Apply online: I&J Yes4Youth Programme 2026.

You will be required to send in the documents below:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV): A current and up-to-date CV reflecting your latest qualifications, experience, and achievements.
• Stamped bank account details/statement (not older than 3 months): A bank statement or account confirmation letter bearing an official stamp, issued within the last three months.
• SARS Tax Document (copy of SARS certificate/letter): A certified copy of your official SARS tax certificate or letter confirming your tax details.
• Certified copy of highest grade/qualification (not older than 3 months):
• A certified copy of your highest educational certificate or qualification, certified within the last three months.
• Certified ID Copy (not older than 3 months): A certified copy of your identification document, with certification dated within the last three months.

The standard recruitment procedure will be applied, which includes background checks such as criminal record screening, identity verification, qualification verification, and other relevant checks, as well as a full medical examination conducted at the I&J medical facility.

Additionally, all applicants are required to submit their applications through the I&J WhatsApp number: +27 60 011 9717.

Please save this number to your phone contacts. Then send a “HI” message via WhatsApp to initiate contact, after which you will receive a response with further instructions.

Closing Date
Applications for the I&J Yes4Youth Programme must be submitted before the closing date on 30 April 2026.

The selection committee strictly enforces a no-late-submission policy. Any applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered or included in the registration process.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their materials ahead of time. Early submission allows sufficient opportunity to review, revise, and ensure that all required documents are accurate and complete before the deadline. Therefore, candidates are advised to finalize and send their applications as early as possible.

I&J retains the sole discretion to proceed with an appointment or to leave the position vacant during the recruitment process. All decisions made by the selection committee are final and binding on all applicants.

Programme Enquiries

• +27 21 440 7800 (Magdalene Idas and Franklin Cieverts) – I&J Woodstock
• +27 21 402 9700 (Shannon Allman – CT Fishing) – Cape Town Waterfront
• +27 21 440 7800 (Sheila Mayana (Mimi) – VAP) Paarden Eiland

Company Details

Telephone Number: +27 21 440 7800

Physical Address: I&J House 1 Davidson Street Woodstock, 7925. Cape Town, South Africa