Retail Academy

With youth unemployment in South Africa sitting at a staggering 33.2%, pathways to meaningful employment have never been more important.

In partnership with Grade 12 learners from Dr JL Dube and 2020 matriculants, the Cotton On Foundation Retail Academy is creating real opportunities by equipping young people with practical retail skills, workplace confidence and exposure to diverse career pathways.

Through hands-on, real-world learning — from CV writing and interview skills to customer service, visual merchandising and workplace etiquette — graduates leave job-ready, empowered and prepared to step into entry-level retail roles with confidence.

Beyond Words

Right now, 81% of Grade 4 learners in South Africa cannot read for meaning, and 78% of public schools have no libraries—sobering realities that demand urgent action.

Yet within these challenges lies an opportunity for hope and lasting change. Together with the Nomzamo Lighthouse Foundation and The Bookery, we’re building libraries that spark imagination, nurture a love for reading and open doors to brighter futures.

Beyond Words is a bold, national initiative created to help rewrite the literacy story for South African children—because access to books is access to possibility.

Learn More about Beyond Words