South Africa is a land of beauty, mystery and adventure with an eclectic mix of cultures, languages and religions. Immerse yourself in this extraordinary land and be a part of its development and sustainability by signing on to a SASTS programme. You have the opportunity to change lives for the better in local communities whilst volunteering on a number of projects in South Africa or you can decide to immerse yourself and work alongside fellow South Africans for up to a year.
Often referred to as “the world in one country” South Africa is a land of extraordinary beauty, mystery and adventure. Although this expression alludes to the varying climatic conditions, vegetation and the abundance of animals, it can also be used to describe the diversity of cultures, languages and religions, and the extremes of first world development next to third world difficulties. Since 1994, which marked the end of the Apartheid era, it has been possible to not only visit South Africa but to become a part of a once divided, now united nation. Working in South Africa gives the applicant firsthand knowledge of a new nation that has learnt to overcome discrimination and that has moved towards progress and development, becoming the new economic power hub of Africa.
In the past few years South Africa has become a hot destination for all travellers and specifically the adventurous youth and student traveller.
The Work SA programme affords young people the opportunity to explore our beautiful scenic country while imparting skills and expertise in much needed developing communities. This programmes is exclusive to. Not only do they have an opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture, but they have time to explore areas such as the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town and surrounds.
The majority of Work SA applicants find work in the hospitality industry, either working in many of the vibrant bars, restaurants and nightclubs in Cape Town, or within the lively Backpacking industry within South Africa SASTS provides in country support to the applicants (in Cape Town).
There is no better way to travel and work your way around South Africa then on the Work SA programme. One can sample the real everyday South Africa whilst meeting the locals and earning money at the same time. The choice of location is up to the applicant and they can choose from the casual beach life of Cape Town to the hustle and bustle of busy Johannesburg or the laid back surfer City of Durban. It’s also an opportunity for young people to add a line to their resumes, to be completely independent, make new friends and visit some incredible places such as the Kruger Park, Table Mountain, Robben Island and vibrant townships.
Work SA is a 1 year programme, available to full time tertiary students or recent graduates only. Participants have to be between the ages of 18 – 25 to apply and MUST be able to converse in English. There are set arrival dates to participate on the programme and the arrival city is Cape Town. Participants apply for the SASTS Cultural visa at the South African Home Affairs in their Home Country. SASTS will provide supporting documentation.
Eligibility:
- 18 - 25 year olds
- Students and recent graduates
- Acceptance will be dependent on the issuing officer at the local home affairs office in participants’ home country
- Visas may not be extended
