Federal Government funds local youth employment
Marie-claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, was at the offices of Les Aliments Jardi in Sherbrooke on Wednesday afternoon to announce almost $2 million in funding for new projects that will allow Quebec youth to develop their skills and get work experience. Speaking on behalf of Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, Bibeau praised the local organization Actions Interculturelles for programs that have been put in place to support local young people.
“I congratulate you for putting youth at the heart of your projects,” Bibeau said. “Too many young people are looking for work right now, and that while there is a labour shortage in the region.”
Thanks to the new government funding, which has been provided through the Career Focus and Skills Link programs, up to 160 youth will benefit from two projects delivered by Actions interculturelles. Participants will include newcomers to Canada as well as young people born in Quebec.
One project will help post-secondary graduates gain more experience in their field of study with the goal of helping them transition to the labour market and keep a good job. If participants wish, they can also receive help to further their education.
The other project will help youth develop essential skills for interviews, jobsearching and networking. Participating youths will also have opportunities for paid work experience in manufacturing, mechanical engineering, telecommunications and other sectors that are in demand.
“For several years, the organization “Actions interculturelles” has played an important role as an intermediary for newcomers and the host community,” Bibeau added. “Its work with young people, including these work integration projects, contributes positively to the vitality of our region.”
In a written statement, Minister Hajdu underlined the importance of supporting youth employment.
“We know that our communities are healthier and stronger when everyone can fully participate. Supporting youth as they transition into the workplace is a key way to stimulate our economy and strengthen the middle class. Young people will benefit greatly from the opportunity to develop their skills and gain valuable workplace experience,” the Minister of Employment said.
Mohamed Soulami, Executive Director of Actions interculturelles, was grateful for the support.
“Projects like “VIP skills” and “Starting a career of excellence” allow us to create the necessary links between youth who are disconnected from the job market and employers needing workers,” Soulami said. “We help these young people to overcome obstacles and find their path. Our role is to open the doors of businesses that hire young people and help them to experience success. It’s not easy, but we do it and it greatly benefits the youth, the employers, and our society.”
Felix Boulanger-martin, a 27 year old participant in the programs benefitting from these new programs, said that the work of Actions Interculturelles was lifechanging for him.
“Before encountering Actions Interculturelles, I only ever had part time jobs that did not last very long,” Boulanger Martin said. “It was hard in the beginning, but bit by bit I have found my place with their help.” 3 months 6 months $82.21) 12 months $146.00 (reg. $155.91) $38.00 (reg. $ 41.57) $76.00 (reg. $ 81.85) 1 month online $ 7.00 (reg. $ 7.46) 12 months online $42.00 (reg.
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