Here’s What We’re Looking For
Each year our application numbers grow and the applications seem to get stronger, and it should come at no surprise. With the high unemployment rates, and so many capable and willing youth looking for opportunities, we are not at all surprised – it’s exactly why the opportunity exists. But each year our work gets more challenging. We believe in giving every applicant fair consideration, and we deeply appreciate your courage, ambition and interest. We also take the role we’ve been given seriously as our decision can and often does shape and influence the trajectories of youth. But there remains far more potential than there is opportunity, and this is true for us too – Demand is high and slots are limited, so not everyone will make it into the program.
To help you understand where things often fall short, here are the most common reasons applications are unsuccessful — and tips to strengthen yours next time.
What We Look for in Applicants
Before discussing the gaps, here are key criteria that guide our selection process. Use these as a checklist when applying:
- Applicants must be aged 20-30, based in South Africa.
- Applicants must be unemployed and not currently studying or in training, able to commit full-time (Monday to Friday, 9am-4pm).
- Able to attend in person in Braamfontein/Milpark, Johannesburg.
- No requirement for high academic achievement (e.g. matric), though you need drive, curiosity, willingness to learn.
- You’ll need to complete two free certificate modules: one on Digital Marketing Trends, another on Front-End Development (CSS).
- Motivation & alignment: why you want this, what your goals are, how serious you are about committing to the 10-month program.
Common Reasons Applications Are Unsuccessful
From reviewing past cycles, these are the patterns we see most often when applications do not make the cut. Understanding these may help you strengthen a future application.
| Reason | What often goes wrong | Ways to improve |
|---|---|---|
| Incomplete or missing documents | Missing proof of address, ID, CV, or relevant certificate uploads. Sometimes the online modules or the supporting free certificates are not submitted. | Double check that all required documents are uploaded. Ensure the certificates are completed and submitted on time. Don’t assume any document is optional. |
| Lack of clarity or depth in motivation / aspirations | Application answers are vague, generic, or don’t clearly show why the digital marketing program is the right fit for you. Sometimes the “why iHub Africa” or “future self” sections feel last-minute. | Take time to reflect: what specifically about digital marketing excites you, what you intend to do with the skills, how you plan to commit. Be specific about your goals and reasons, and why iHub specifically. Do some research. |
| Not completing pre-requisite modules / certifications | The required free online modules (Digital Marketing Trends, CSS) are not done, or evidence is not submitted. This makes it difficult to assess capability and commitment. | Prioritise completing these modules early; don’t leave them to the last minute. Treat them as part of the application. |
| Limited proof of consistency or reliability | An applicant may indicate interest, but show little evidence of follow-through, or cannot commit to full-day attendance. We also look for signs you’ll persist through challenges. | Demonstrate consistency (projects, past responsibilities, volunteer work etc.). Be transparent about constraints and challenges but show how you’ll manage them. |
| High competition & limited space | Many applicants meet most criteria but there simply aren’t enough places. When push comes to shove, the strongest applicants (in motivation, readiness, fit, etc.) are selected. | Even if you think you’re “good enough,” don’t assume you’ll be selected. Try to go above and beyond in parts of the application where you can stand out. |
| Geographical / logistical constraints | Some applicants are unable to attend in person, or have issues with transport, schedule, or availability. Sometimes full-time commitment becomes a barrier. | If there are logistical constraints, state them clearly, and show how you plan to overcome them. Make sure your situation realistically allows you to attend full time in Johannesburg. |
| Poor or missing communication / follow-ups | Sometimes applicants don’t respond to follow-up requests, or RSVPs, or the application process has missed steps because communication wasn’t clear. | Keep an eye on your email / WhatsApp messages. Join the WhatsApp groups and ensure you respond or take the required actions in time. If unsure about something, reach out well before deadlines. |
Key Considerations & Risks
Over the years we have learned the makings of candidates most likely to make the most of the opportunity and complete the 10 months. And as a donor-funded opportunity, it is our responsibility to select young people who both align with the mission but also understand the value being offered. It can be tempting to go for an opportunity “just to have something to do”, but the iHub opporunity is rigourous, and requires a clear “why” for candidates to succeed and really thrive in the program.
- Time & Opportunity Cost: Committing to a full-time 10-month program is a big decision. If you accept a spot, you need to be ready to prioritise it. If your current job or study commitments etc conflicts, chances are you will struggle. It’s a lot of work, with demanding deadlines. It’s not for the faint-hearted and will take up most of your time and mental energy.
- Support System: Training is intense. Having support (family, friends, peers) helps you persist. If external life challenges are too heavy, it can be hard to fully participate or to stay on track.
- Self-awareness & Growth Mindset: We can teach you digital marketing, but things like perseverance, adaptability, knowing when to ask questions, learning from feedback etc. are essential. Applicants who succeed often show awareness of where they may be weaker, have a plan to address it and are willing to do the work of growing.
- Realistic Expectations: This program is transformative, but it’s not magic. You’ll still need effort, practice, patience. If you expect things to be easy, or success to come immediately, you may get discouraged.
Next Steps: How to Strengthen Your Application
If your application was unsuccessful this time, don’t be discouraged. Here are concrete things to do so you’re stronger in this next cycle:
- Do the certificates early: Give yourself time for re-takes or clarifications if needed.
- Build up experience or small projects: Even voluntary work, personal blogs, social media content, helping local organisations with digital work etc. show initiative.
- Practice writing the essays / motivation questions: Draft, revise; get someone to review. Make sure your answers are clear, specific, compelling.
- Map your logistics: Can you realistically be in Johannesburg full-time? Do you have transport? Family obligations? Plan ahead.
- Stay ready: Even outside iHub, keep learning; free resources, online courses, community groups etc. That keeps you sharp and proves readiness.
We believe in you, and in the potential of every person who applies. Missing out once doesn’t mean you’re not capable. Do your research, submit your best application and trust that we will do our best to review your application based on out knowledge of the program and applicants who will thrive. Trust that the right opportunity is out there and if you keep putting yourself out there, it’s just a matter of time before something works out.
All the best!