Getting a first job should be an opportunity to learn, contribute and build confidence. When someone is ready to work but needs experience to get hired, we should help create a path forward.
My approach to youth employment would focus on three practical priorities:
Connect young people with local employers
I would work to bring businesses, schools and employment organizations together through local hiring events, mentorship and clearer connections to entry-level opportunities.
Support paid work experience
I would encourage partnerships that expand access to paid summer jobs, co-op placements and apprenticeships. These opportunities should help young people develop useful skills while earning an income.
Make employment support easier to find
I would advocate for clearer information about training, résumé assistance, interview preparation and existing employment programs, so young people and their families know where to turn.
These ideas would require cooperation with employers, educators and other levels of government. As councillor, I would focus on bringing partners together, identifying gaps and asking for measurable results.
Young people have talent, ambition and ideas to contribute. Let’s help them take that first step.