Daybreak Foods, YES Programme partner to combat youth unemployment

Daybreak Foods has teamed up with the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme to tackle youth unemployment in South Africa, offering numerous young individuals the chance to launch their careers in agriculture and related industries.

This collaboration aligns with Daybreak Foods’ commitment to social responsibility and economic development, aiming to provide 104 participants with invaluable work experience across all sectors of the company’s operations.

Richard Manzini, Daybreak’s CEO and a key figure in this partnership has been actively involved in promoting opportunities in the agribusiness sector through his presentations at Mpumalanga University and Fort Hare University in recent weeks. His efforts have both highlighted the potential of the agricultural sector in driving economic growth and inspired many young minds to consider agribusiness as a viable and rewarding career path.

“The impact of such partnerships cannot be overstated. They play a pivotal role in equipping the youth with the necessary skills and experience required to thrive in the competitive job market. Moreover, by focusing on agribusiness, Daybreak Foods is nurturing talent in a sector that is crucial for the country’s food security and sustainability,” says Manzini.

Driving transformation in agriculture

Manzini continues: “Daybreak has to prioritise fulfilling its investment mandate to advance transformation in the agriculture industry, one of the least transformed sectors in the country. Job creation and preservation, including jobs for youth, and creating meaningful economic platforms to address poverty in our host communities, are key to our success.

“The initiative by Daybreak Foods is a testament to the power of collaboration between the private sector and youth empowerment programmes. It serves as an example for other corporations to follow, emphasizing the importance of investing in the future workforce for the betterment of society as a whole.”

A step towards a prosperous future

As South Africa continues to grapple with high levels of youth unemployment, it is encouraging to see organisations like Daybreak Foods stepping up to make a difference. The partnership with the YES Programme is more than just a corporate social responsibility endeavour says Manzini, it is a strategic investment in the nation’s future and a step towards a more prosperous and inclusive economy.