Navigating Career Choices: Career choices for high school students

Because planning your future shouldn’t feel like a maths test.

Let’s face it. Career choices for hight school students shouldn’t become an uncomfortable situation. When people are constantly asking out of curiosity: “So, what are you going to do after school?” it can get annoying—especially if you’re not 100% sure yet. Maybe you have a few ideas. Maybe you feel stuck. Maybe you just want to pass your exams first.

We get it.

We totally understand. Deciding on a next step after high school is a tough nut to crack. However, you at the moment don’t have to be prepared for all your life stages. What you could go for instead is explore—and we have quite a nice guide to get you started here.

The Job World is Changing (and Fast)

The kind of jobs your parents or teachers grew up with, alot of them are still around, sure—but there are loads of new ones, too. Think app developers, digital marketers, drone operators, or climate tech innovators.

Some careers didn’t even exist ten years ago. The job market is forever changing, what is in demand right now, might not be so in five years. That is why it’s smart to think about what the future trends will be, not just what’s already here.

South Africa is growing rapidly—especially in tech, renewable energy, and creative industries. There’s space for young energetic new voices, big ideas, and people who have a passion to shape the future.

What Careers Are Actually Out There?

Here are some of the most exciting fields you might not have thought about yet—but you should:

  1. Tech & Data Science
    If you enjoy solving problems, working with computers, or even gaming—this might be your lane. It’s not just for “maths geniuses” either. There’s space for designers, project leaders, and people who think differently.
    What you need is: Some basic coding skills (like Python), curiosity, and a logical mindset.
  1. Environmental & Green Jobs
    Into nature? Love the planet? The green economy is growing fast, with jobs in sustainable farming, clean energy, and environmental science.
    What you need is: Science skills, a creative approach to problem-solving, and passion for the environment.
  1. Creative & Digital Media
    Are you creative, love to design, or making content? Creative Careers in video, graphic design, marketing, and even virtual reality are in high demand now. You could build a brand—or help someone else do it.
    What you need is: Creativity, strong communication skills, and confidence using digital tools.
  1. Health & Biotech
    This is not just about doctors and nurses. Think beyond the hospital: medical research, mental health innovation, public health, and even robotics in surgery.
    What you need is: Interest in science and people, attention to detail, and a heart for helping others.
  1. Entrepreneurship & Social Impact
    Not feeling the 9-to-5? Want to build something of your own? Start a business, open a community centre, launch an app—whatever it is, being your own boss is totally possible.
    What you need is: Confidence, money smarts, and serious motivation.

Where do you start?

Take it one step at a time, don’t let the choices overwhelm you. Here are few suggestions to get you going:

  • Test different things out – Join school clubs, volunteer, help with family businesses, or try side gigs.
  • Talk to real people – Ask older friends, family members, or teachers what they do—and how they got there.
  • Use free online tools – Career quizzes, YouTube videos, and websites like Career Planet or SAYouth can help you get ideas. Check out Future Skills on TikTok @futureskills02 where you can get information about different career options and watch videos of real people in different careers.
  • Notice what lights you up – What subjects do you enjoy most? What do you do in your free time?

The more you explore, the more you will get to know about yourself—and what kind of career path may be the best for you.

Skills That’ll Help No Matter What

Even if you’re not sure what you want to do yet, gain new skills, it will always come in handy. They’re like your career survival kit:

  • Being able to talk clearly and listen well
  • Working well with others (even people you don’t always agree with)
  • Managing your time and meeting deadlines
  • Coming up with new ideas and solving problems
  • Being flexible when things change (because they will)

And don’t forget Ubuntu—that powerful South African value of community, kindness, and connection. Whatever you do, bringing that energy to your work makes a difference.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career doesn’t mean locking yourself into one thing forever. It just means starting the journey—step by step. Be curious. Try new things. Ask for advice. Trust your gut.

Career choices for high school students don’t have to be scary. They can be exciting. They’re about figuring out who you are, what you’re good at, and how you want to show up in the world.

You’ve got time. You’ve got options. And most importantly, you’ve got something only you can offer.