In today’s job market, qualifications are common – but experience is what cuts through. As AI tools reshape industries and entry-level roles become scarcer, employers aren’t just asking: “What do you know?” They’re asking: “What have you done?”
To help young South Africans answer that question with confidence, Umuzi has launched the Experience Lab – a fully online lab that turns talent into proof, and learning into opportunity.
“South African youth are not waiting to be rescued. They’re ready to lead,” says Lyndi Lawson-Smith, CEO of Umuzi. “What they need isn’t more training. It’s the chance to show what they’re capable of. Experience Lab delivers that.”
Experience Lab connects junior talent to real-world briefs, paid projects, and guided mentorship. Learners build portfolios that speak louder than CVs – delivering outputs that demonstrate creativity, problem-solving, and readiness for high-growth environments, giving them and their future employers the confidence to catalyse their careers.
“Throughout my journey, I’ve developed a strong interest in leveraging technology to solve real-world problems, particularly within the business and customer success space. I consider myself a lifelong learner who is constantly seeking to grow and contribute meaningfully to my environment. I’m excited to further expand my experience and knowledge as I pursue new opportunities in the tech industry” – Andiswa Biyela
Backed by data-driven placement tools and supported by 30+ employer partners, Experience Lab is helping Umuzi close South Africa’s experience divide – one portfolio at a time.
In 2025, the programme aims to deliver:
- 2 500 paid gigs
- 600 new learners onboarded
- 300 job placements
But the vision goes beyond numbers. It’s about ensuring that youth are not only employable – but undeniable.
“We’re not just here to teach – we’re here to help talented young people build the kind of portfolios that cut through the noise and earn real-world trust,” says Fiona Tabraham, Executive Director of Umuzi’s Experience Lab. “The time for excluding people from the world of work has ended, let’s celebrate the depth and quality of the talent we have in South Africa and embrace a diverse workforce.”
This Youth Month, don’t just celebrate youth – signal their value; invest in their readiness; work with them and grow with them!
