Government Officials and Political Thought Leaders Set to Discuss Youth Employment Issues at YES Compass Conference

With Vancouver’s unemployment rate up by 9.1% in 2018, it is clear that there is a need for conversation around the pervasive issue of youth unemployment. Fast paced and highly competitive job markets mean that youth across BC need to be prepared to earn and maintain meaningful employment.

On Wednesday, March 6th government officials and community members will be participating in the Youth Employment Services (YES) Compass Conference. This community roundtable event will discuss the issues surrounding youth unemployment, examining three evidence-based solutions and how they can be brought to fruition to create meaningful change.

Through mentorship, improved digital literacy, and encouraging dialogue around mental health, members of the community can come together to tackle an issue that continues to overwhelm youth across Canada.

Through initiatives like Citi Foundation’s Pathways to Progress, young people ages 16-24 are given access to resources such as training programs to help inspire an entrepreneurial mindset and develop both leadership and workplace skills in preparation for their first job. “We don’t just want to help train people for a job today but also empower them to be able to navigate through a changing economic system,” says Brandee McHale, president of Citi Foundation, which works to promote economic progress and improve the lives of people in low-income communities around the world. With an improved skill set and access to the necessary resources, youth can develop the skills and know-how to be successful in the workforce. These programs work to ensure meaningful employment is no longer out of reach for marginalized youth.

For YES CEO, Tim Lang, the issue of youth unemployment is one that requires the support of an entire community. “The significant social and economic costs of underemployment amongst youth is an issue that continues across our country. With the support of government leaders and community members, we can join forces to mentor, educate, and encourage youth to be better equipped for gainful employment well into the future”.

Vancouver Kingsway MP Don Davies has remained steadfast in his advocacy towards improved employment standards and is eager to contribute to the conversation at the conference. Joyce Murray, Member of Parliament for Vancouver Quadra, will be another notable attendee joining in the necessary discussion surrounding the issues of youth unemployment.

To learn more about Youth Employment Services (YES) visit www.yes.on.ca.

CONTACT:
Caroline Coons
604-805-7020
caroline@jellymarketing.com

Citi Foundation
The Citi Foundation works to promote economic progress and improve the lives of people in low-income communities around the world. We invest in efforts that increase financial inclusion, catalyze job opportunities for youth, and reimagine approaches to building economically vibrant cities. The Citi Foundation’s “More than Philanthropy” approach leverages the enormous expertise of Citi and its people to fulfill our mission and drive thought leadership and innovation. For more information, visit www.citifoundation.com.