Youth across British Columbia continue to face significant challenges when looking for a job. Many youth aged 16 to 30 navigate limited work experience, lack of financial resources, gaps in education or skills, and the impact of trauma or systemic inequities.
YWCA NextStep Youth Program funded by BC’s Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction is a free, 12-week employment and life skills program designed to support youth as they build confidence and employment skills while gaining hands-on experience. Through a blend of group workshops, one-to-one support, a community project as well as certifications, participants have opportunities to receive individualized guidance tailored to their needs. This unique approach supports youth to realize their career or educational goals.
“The YWCA NextStep program has given me many useful tools to help me in my future, such as providing the resolve to get back into the job market and giving me the knowledge to pursue the proper education I need to become a digital media specialist,” shared one participant from Port Coquitlam.
There is significant need in our communities for programs that provide youth with trauma-informed, skill-based training. In fact, NextStep has expanded from two in-person locations to four, with cohorts now offered in Langley and Kelowna in addition to Port Coquitlam and Prince George. To further meet this growing demand and support youth across the province, NextStep has also increased the number of virtual cohorts available to ensure even more young people can participate regardless of where they live.
As the program expands, its impact is clear: NextStep supports youth in their employment journey and empowers them to envision and pursue a future filled with possibility.
For more information on our youth employment programs, please contact Kathy Lilyholm at klilyholm@ywcabc.org or 604 895 5851.
