A Tshwane University of Technology alumnus is using artificial intelligence to help young South Africans prepare for one of the most challenging aspects of entering the workplace — the interview process.
Banele Mgwevu, a software developer from Etwatwa on the East Rand, studied Information and Communication Technology at TUT’s Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, where he specialized in software development. He is now the founder of ITSAGO, an AI-powered interview coaching and career preparation platform designed to help graduates improve their confidence, interview skills and CVs.
Mgwevu said the platform was inspired by personal experience and the challenges many graduates face after completing their studies. “Being a TUT alumnus and having walked those same corridors, it was important for me to create something that gives back to students and graduates,” he said. “I know what it feels like to finish your degree and still feel unprepared for the real world. TUT equipped me with the technical skills, but nobody taught me how to sell myself in an interview.”
The idea behind ITSAGO became more pressing after the company he worked for underwent restructuring, prompting him to consider returning to the job market himself. “That feeling of uncertainty was really uncomfortable,” he said. “Instead of just preparing for myself, I thought, ‘What if I could build something that helps everyone in that position?'”
The platform enables users to practise interview questions on camera while receiving AI-generated feedback on communication, confidence and answer structure. It also includes an AI career coach, an Applicant Tracking System and a CV Builder — all aimed at improving graduates’ chances of securing employment.
The launch comes against the backdrop of South Africa’s persistent youth unemployment crisis. Statistics South Africa reported that youth unemployment among people aged 15 to 34 reached 46.1% in the first quarter of 2025, underscoring the difficulties young people face entering the labour market. While obtaining a qualification significantly improves employment prospects, many graduates still struggle to secure work, with thousands of qualified young people competing for limited opportunities. Experts increasingly point to the need for graduates to complement their qualifications with workplace-readiness skills such as communication, interview preparation, networking and personal branding.
“Many graduates have the knowledge and technical skills, but they are not always prepared for the recruitment process itself,” Mgwevu said. “Employers are looking for candidates who can communicate effectively, present themselves professionally and demonstrate confidence. Those are skills that can be developed.”
Since launching, ITSAGO has attracted hundreds of users and gained recognition in publications including The Citizen and Boksburg Advertiser. Mgwevu hopes the platform will help graduates feel better prepared, more confident and ready to compete in an increasingly demanding job market.
“As technology continues to transform the world of work, career preparation is becoming just as important as academic achievement,” he said. “Our goal is to help young people bridge the gap between graduation and employment, giving them the tools they need to succeed.”
