Unemployment among white youths in Kimberley: understanding experiences and coping mechanisms

Abstract

South Africa has one of the highest unemployment rates within the labour market, with the youth being the most affected group. While extensive research exists on unemployment in South Africa, there remains a notable gap regarding white unemployment post-apartheid. Existing studies also primarily focus on black unemployment, often overlooking the challenges faced by white youths. This thesis examines the challenges white youth face in post-apartheid South Africa in securing employment, focusing on the interplay of structural and cultural factors that influence their experiences. Despite the privileges afforded to whites under apartheid, contemporary economic conditions, affirmative action policies, and educational disparities have created significant hurdles for white youth. Drawing on Giddens’ theory of structure and agency, this study explores how these young individuals navigate unemployment through coping strategies such as familial support, social networking, and relocation. Using a data sample of young men and women between the ages of 18 to 35, who are unemployed, and living in Kimberley, and the integration of methods such as semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, supported by triangulation, enabled a comprehensive exploration of unemployment among white youth in Kimberley. By capturing individual and collective experiences and analysing data through the lens of Giddens’ theory of structure and agency, the study contributes to understanding the intersection of socio-economic class, cultural identity, and coping strategies in a post-apartheid context. The research highlights the enduring influence of apartheid-era constructs of whiteness on the identities and opportunities of white youth. These constructs shape their coping mechanisms, often perpetuating an "apartheid mentality" that limits their ability to engage with broader social networks and adapt to inclusive economic policies. The study also addresses a critical gap in the literature by shifting attention to the experiences of white unemployed youth, which are often overlooked in favour of broader narratives on black unemployment. Findings reveal that the challenges encountered by white youth are both structural, stemming from economic redress policies like Black Economic Empowerment, and cultural, rooted in historical racial ideologies. The study underscores the resilience and adaptability of these youth, offering insights into their efforts to overcome barriers in a rapidly changing socio-economic landscape. By analysing their strategies and lived experiences, this research contributes to a nuanced understanding of unemployment in post-apartheid South Africa and its implications for race, identity, and social mobility. keywords: unemployment,