As youth unemployment in South Africa continues to rise, corporate professionals in Cape Town are stepping beyond boardrooms and into classrooms to help Grade 12 learners gain a critical edge in the job market.
At Christel House South Africa, our leading non-profit school based in Ottery, this collaboration is already making a measurable difference.
Addressing Youth Unemployment in South Africa
Recent scenes at Athlone Stadium, where thousands of young people queued for limited job opportunities, highlight the urgency of addressing youth unemployment in the Western Cape and across South Africa. Access to opportunity, professional networks, and workplace readiness remains a major barrier for many young people.
Initiatives like Christel House South Africa’s Speed Interviews programme are designed to bridge this gap.
How the Speed Interviews Programme Works
Each year, HR and corporate professionals volunteer their time to conduct one-on-one mock interviews with Grade 12 learners. For many learners, this is their first formal interview experience, making it a critical milestone in their transition from school to the workplace.
“This has been my second time attending the Speed Interview event and once again Christel House has exceeded all expectations. I think it’s incredible that the students are given this opportunity. It’s going to make all the difference in terms of preparing them for the workplace,” says Monique Ruthenberg, Conservation Manager at CapeNature.
This comprehensive approach is delivering results, with 95% of alumni successfully studying, employed, or doing both after leaving school.
Building Future Talent Through Corporate Partnerships
The Speed Interviews initiative forms part of the school’s broader Career Development Programme, which equips students with the skills, mindset, and networks needed to succeed beyond school.
“In a country where youth unemployment remains a pressing concern, partnerships like this show what’s possible when the private sector and education come together to actively create change,” says Louise de Marillac St Julien, Career Development Manager at Christel House South Africa.
Expanding Access to Quality Education in the Western Cape
In response to the growing demand for quality secondary education, Christel House South Africa is expanding its impact.
A second high school is set to open on its Ottery campus, effectively doubling capacity. The expansion is already underway, with 120 additional Grade 8 and 9 learners enrolled since 2025.
Christel House South Africa continues to call on businesses and professionals in Cape Town and across South Africa to support the next generation of talent.
Opportunities to get involved include:
Contact:
Career Development Department
021 704 9441/2
For partnerships or donations:
partnership@sa.christelhouse.org.za
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