Training program tackles "no experience" dilemma

It’s an unfortunate Catch-22 facing many high-school students across the country – they can’t get a job because they have no experience, and they can’t get experience because they have no job.

But a program in Victoria, BC has helped teens out of that conundrum.

The Youth Leaders in Training initiative – hosted by Oaklands Community Centre and supported by a grant from Victoria Foundation – helps young teens looking to build up their skills for employment while connecting with their community.

Launched in summer 2011, the six-week volunteer program accepted – following interviews - 13 young people that year and another 17 in summer 2012.  They spent two weeks in a classroom setting learning life and employment skills before being placed for four weeks at a day camp, where they honed those skills working with leaders and kids. Since the lack of child care spaces recurs as a Vital Signs issue, training was also provided in babysitting and early childhood development. They ended the summer with mock interviews to help each one learn about ways to frame answers to interview questions, which will no doubt help them with job prospects.

"YLIT program guides youth on a path to success where they gain confidence and realize their fresh ideas are a vital component in the workforce,” says Oaklands Community Centre Executive Director Kristi Rivait.

”Each youth also learns what he or she needs to do to 'get that job.' These youths learn they are not alone trying to succeed professionally - there are mentored paths available towards becoming the leaders of tomorrow."

YLIT participant Rayanne Bimb says the program helped her learn about her strengths and “maybe what I need to work on.”

And, adds participant Kristian Tanquilut : “You learn about things like how to present yourself, how to talk in front of a group, how to be confident.”

While it’s considered a volunteer program, participants also receive a $500 honoraria upon completion.