A career fair being run by the YMCA on Wednesday is aimed at finding employment for youth who are new to the area.
The Y NEXT program provides tailored services, such as one-on-one mentorship and coaching, to help newcomer youth obtain and maintain long-term sustainable employment.
Program Coordinator of Newcomer Employment Services Stephanie Bewski said this past year they supported over 35 highly-educated newcomer youth.
"At the Y, we build confidence and provide a consistent support network for our program participants," said Bewski. "Nineteen of those youth successful secured employment in fields like IT, childcare, healthcare, customer service, and hospitality."
Bewski is issuing a call to action for all employers across the community.
"Whether you're part of a company that staffs hundreds, or you run a small business, If you have the capacity to add even one other person to your team, please reach out to me," she said. "We have a fantastic roster of highly-skilled, educated, hardworking and eager individuals that want to make an impact in the community that has become their new home."
Bewski said having face to face contact definitely has its benefits.
"I think employers sometimes have a hard time filling positions when they get hundreds of resumes coming through online," she said. "If employers contact me, they can work with me one on one, and I can find them a tailored individual that will fit their needs perfectly."
Bewski said the Y NEXT program will continue for at least two more years, as they've been given an extension by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
The event is taking place at the YMCA Learning and Career Centre at 660 Oakdale Ave. from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m.
Employers can contact Bewski by emailing her at stephanie.bewski@swo.ymca.ca.