Y IGNITE: Building New Brunswick’s Workforce and Developing Youth Employment Skills
Saint John, NB – The YMCA of Greater Saint John and the Department of Post-Secondary Education Training and Labour have partnered to help develop the talent pipeline and support the leaders of tomorrow in Southeastern New Brunswick, through a youth employability program – Y IGNITE.
Y IGNITE is a curriculum-based program that will provide youth ages 15-30 the opportunity to learn transferrable workforce skills, while earning gainful employment at the YMCA.
Through job training and weekly professional development courses participants will become equip for a future of success.
“We are thrilled to see Y IGNITE come to life through this partnership with the Department of Post Secondary Education Training and Labour,” explains Shilo Boucher, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Saint John. “Throughout the past two years we have seen firsthand the power of community collaboration. As we look to the future, we know there is a need to provide opportunities for young people in our region to grow, develop and thrive. Y IGNITE not only offers employment, but also equips the next generation to be work-ready.”
The initiative was developed by the Y’s Youth Council – a volunteer-based committee of young professionals and post-secondary students in the Saint John region who are passionate about growing their community.
“One of the biggest challenges facing our province is a shortage of workers and programs such as Y IGNITE are crucial to creating pathways to employment,” said Minister of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour, Trevor Holder. “We are proud to partner with the YMCA through WorkingNB to provide valuable professional learning experiences that will benefit our youth and their future professional lives, while preparing them to join New Brunswick’s labour force.”
The first Y IGNITE cohort kicks off in June 2022. Participants will go through a development journey that includes on the job training, one-on-one mentorship, and weekly professional development courses – containing a range of topics from financial literacy, professional etiquette, and confidence building
workshops.
To learn more, or to discover qualifications and how to register for Y IGNITE, click here.
About the YMCA of Greater Saint John
The YMCA of Greater Saint John is a trusted charity that delivers lasting personal and social change. We are committed to nurturing the potential of children, youth and families, promoting healthy living and fostering social responsibility within the community. There are 18 locations throughout Greater Saint John. Together, we serve more than 22,000 people. Our focus on inclusiveness and accessibility means we serve people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities through all stages of life. Through the YMCA Strong Communities Fund, the YMCA is accessible to all.