The city-wide expo came on the back of eight very successful district-based expos that attracted just over 3 500 young people – all with the single objective of exposing unemployed youth to the various career possibilities that exist and putting them in direct contact with prospective employers and tertiary institutions. Exhibitors included  academia, FET colleges, business schools, the National Youth Development Agency, tertiary institutions, the Dream Hotel School, the International Academy of Health and Skincare, and TSIBA Education and Fashion schools, among others. The expos are part of the City’s Transversal Youth Development Strategy, which includes personal development through life skills training and unlocking economic opportunities for young people.

‘The number of people who attended the expos is an indication of the dire need for jobs. Our ultimate goal is to decrease the unemployment rate and to introduce youths to careers related to their skills and qualifications, also helping them identify the key skills needed in order to become successful professionals. Through our engagements with these young people, we found that many need support in accessing employment opportunities. Many were also unaware of the various opportunities available to them and how to access those opportunities,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Social Development and Early Childhood Development, Councillor Suzette Little.

The Directorate plans to continue bringing these vital services to the youth through its expos, which focus is on people aged between 14 and 25 as they are leaving school and entering the workplace. Continual support will also be provided to those wanting to start their own businesses. The youth will also be afforded the opportunity to develop their skills in communication, self-presentation and networking.

‘We want to establish and develop relationships with area employers, which could lead to student internships, class visits, on-the-job training, and other work-based learning partnerships. The expos have also given us a chance to engage with the youth and encourage them to take up the opportunities and work hard to achieve their goals,’ said Councillor Little.