Exhibitors from a range of industries will be available during a Youth Employment Summit in Nanaimo on Monday, Feb. 9. (Image Credit: Inclusion BC)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

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NANAIMO — Breaking down barriers and ensuring smooth transition into the workforce for all are the driving forces behind a summit planned on Monday.

Inclusion BC will host a one-day Youth Employment Summit on Monday, Feb. 9 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Beban Park Social Centre, bringing together employers from a wide range of sectors to meet with and discuss employment options with local youth.

Director of employment initiatives with Inclusion BC, Jillian Bradley, said while the event isn’t a job fair, it’s a key educational and networking event for all.

“It’s designed to help explore career possibilities and understand the supports available to them as they transition into the workforce. It brings together youth, families, employers, post secondary institutions, employment service providers and community organizations in one inclusive space.”

Exhibitors attending include Worksafe BC, ICBC, Nanaimo Association for Community Living, Vancouver Island University, Island Health and Work BC Employment Services.

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A full list, including pre-registration for the event, is available on Inclusion BC’s website.

Bradley told NaanaimoNewsNOW these types of events are just as beneficial for those looking for work, as it is for companies or sectors hiring.

“It really gives youth a chance to explore careers, build confidence in a low pressure setting, while helping employers also better understand inclusive hiring and the supports that are available to them as an employer as well.”

She added the connections made in a face to face setting can be instrumental for youth with disabilities

“For many youth with disabilities, wanting to work isn’t the problem. The problem is being given a chance, and too often barriers like a lack of support, low expectations and missed connections keep capable young people on the sidelines. It’s not because they can’t work but because the systems weren’t built with them in mind.”

The free event will also feature breakout sessions focusing on skilled trades, mentor connections and Work BC services.

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