How AI could help young South Africans find jobs, earn income and start businesses

With youth unemployment still stubbornly high, many young South Africans see artificial intelligence as something that will replace them in the workplace.

But some experts say that view is outdated and could even hold jobseekers back.

Aspire Solutions founder and operations director Mike Steyn says the real challenge is not youth unemployment alone, but whether young people have the right skills for a rapidly changing labour market.

“We don’t have a youth problem; we’ve got a skill alignment problem,” he said on 702.

New AI jobs are emerging as companies adopt the tech

Steyn says thousands of companies still need people who understand how to use AI in real business settings.

That means new opportunities are opening for young people who learn how the tools work and how to apply them.

“For every job that may be taken away, there’s going to be a whole bunch that open up,” he said.

These could include helping businesses automate processes, choose AI tools, improve workflows or train staff.

AI could also help young people create their own income

Formal employment isn’t the only path, and AI may help more young South Africans start small businesses or side hustles.

Steyn says AI tools can act like a virtual advisory team, helping with marketing, planning, pricing, admin and operations.

“You’ve almost got this virtual panel of people that can advise you,” he said.

This can lower the cost of starting a business and make entrepreneurship more accessible.

Using AI consistently can improve career decisions

Steyn says personalising AI tools over time can also help jobseekers refine their goals and make better choices.

“It’s important to personalise your experience; it’s your voice, and AI is learning about your voice,” he said.

What it means for young jobseekers now

AI won’t fix unemployment overnight.

But experts say learning to use it could help young South Africans stand out in applications, build skills faster and even create their own opportunities.

For many, the biggest risk may no longer be AI itself but ignoring it.

For more detailed information, listen to Steyn using the audio player below: