In South Africa, the green talent gap poses a challenge to the country's transition to a more sustainable, green economy. Despite having substantial renewable energy resources such as solar and wind, there is a shortage of skilled professionals needed to drive the development and operation of renewable projects, including in sectors like hydrogen technology. The need for green talent extends to every sector of the economy, emphasizing the importance of incorporating sustainability practices across industries. However, the shortage of skilled technicians, engineers, auditors, data scientists, and environmental engineers is delaying progress in the adoption of renewable energy sources and the reduction of carbon footprints. To address this gap, initiatives are being implemented to train more green talent. The upcoming COP29 conference presents a crucial opportunity for South Africa to focus on international collaboration, youth employment in green careers, and securing funding for skills development in the renewable energy sector. Efforts such as the South Africa-H2 Fund, which aims to accelerate the green hydrogen economy and create skilled jobs, showcase the country's commitment to bridging the green talent shortage. One key aspect highlighted is the importance of training the youth for green jobs, offering opportunities for retraining and upskilling in sectors like hydrogen fuel cell technology. By investing in apprenticeships and work-based learning programs, South Africa can equip its large youth population with the necessary skills for a low-carbon economy. Moreover, advocating for more funding to establish skills development zones focused on green jobs training can further contribute to closing the green talent gap in the country. Overall, there are challenges, but also significant opportunities for South Africa to nurture a skilled workforce capable of driving the transition towards a sustainable future.