A Case Study on Bridging the Employment Gap: A Human-Centred Innovation for South Africa's Information Job Sector

Abstract

Unemployment in the informal job sector is a persistent social challenge, particularly for individuals with limited or no work experience in a country with one of the highest unemployment rates worldwide. Many job seekers struggle to access updated CV formats, trusted references, and direct employer connections, limiting their chance for employment. Addressing this issue requires an innovative, human-centred business approach that not only connects job seekers with employment opportunities but also fosters long-term social and economic impact. This paper explores iLink, a web-based application designed to bridge the gap between informal job seekers and employers. Unlike mainstream job-finding platforms, iLink is specifically tailored to serve the workforce in the informal sector by leveraging community input to build credible online profiles for job seekers. In South Africa, many domestic workers, gardeners, and nannies work without formal contracts, making them vulnerable to low wages, job insecurity, and limited legal protections. Through low-cost vetting processes and employer feedback mechanisms, iLink enhances job matching by ensuring that employers can find workers with verifiable skills and references. This paper examines how human-centred innovation can drive employment accessibility, improve workforce readiness, and contribute to economic inclusion in the informal job market.