Your interview, on us: Metropolitan and Uber offer free rides for young job seekers

Metropolitan Collective Shapers (MCS) and Uber will give 500 young candidates the ability to commute to and from job interviews through Uber vouchers.

Youth unemployment remains a pressing issue in South Africa, with the economic climate presenting formidable obstacles. According to Stats SA, in the first quarter of 2023, the youth unemployment rate (ages 15 - 34) soared to 45.5%, a 1.3% increase from the previous quarter.

This rate is double that of those aged 45 - 54. Additionally, youth participation in entrepreneurship is a mere 9.2% in the crucial 20 - 34 age segment, highlighting the significant challenges confronting aspiring young entrepreneurs and job seekers. Furthermore, the high costs associated with job seeking, primarily due to substantial transportation expenses, exacerbate poverty for many already struggling households that often reside far from economic opportunities. 

To address these challenges and support youth in pursuit of employment, the Job Seekers initiative, led by Metropolitan, has partnered with Uber to offer 500 free Uber rides as vouchers to youth attending job interviews, training sessions, induction programmes or any other appointments relevant to securing employment, during the months of June and July. This service is available nationwide to South African citizens aged between 18 - 35 years old.

Metropolitan Collective Shapers supports young people, whether they’re seeking employment opportunities or building their businesses, we are dedicated to empowering the youth to navigate the challenges of today's economy. This year, over 500 job seekers and 50 entrepreneurs will benefit directly from this programme,

says James Boulton, Head of Brand at Metropolitan.

By providing essential resources, MCS aims to alleviate the challenges posed by South Africa's tough economic environment, characterised by high youth unemployment rates and the daunting task of starting and sustaining small businesses as well as finding employment.

To take advantage of the Uber and MCS partnership, eligible individuals can apply by completing an online form shared via social media channels. Once verified, the Uber voucher will be distributed to the applicant's qualifying cell phone number, redeemable via the Uber App. Each voucher is capped to a certain amount for a round trip and will be distributed on a first-come-first-served basis. Applicants may apply for multiple vouchers during the campaign period, provided proof of job interviews is provided.

As Metropolitan Collective Shapers continues its mission to enable youth and drive community development, individuals, and organisations passionate about fostering positive change are encouraged to engage with the initiative and support the journey of South Africa's young entrepreneurs and job seekers.

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