A recent celebration of the successful Porirua Youth 2 Work Movement saw three new businesses sign up as partners and several youth ambassadors tell their stories.

Partners Porirua Executive Director, Michelle Robinson, says that with the third Porirua JOBfest on the horizon in August it’s a good time to celebrate success and meet new partners committed to youth in the City.

“We are really excited to welcome KiwiRail, Ministry for Pacific Peoples and Aspiring Walls into our partnership programme.  We’ve now got 35 local businesses committed to supporting young people into employment and sharing the opportunities and roles that their businesses offer.”

During the evening six youth ambassadors told their stories and shared their experiences of being involved in the Youth 2 Work Movement.

Michelle says there are many awesome opportunities coming from businesses and young people are loving the chance to get some experience under their belts.  

“Our partners are looking at how they can engage with the programme and with youth – they’re looking at the best fit for them. Not everyone can offer full time employment, but they might be able to offer a valuable work experience opportunity or some skills training.

“The businesses that have partnered with us cover many different industries but they all have one thing in common – they know that if our young people are succeeding then our city and local businesses are also succeeding.”

This year’s JOBfest will run on Wednesday 22 August. “This is a brilliant opportunity for businesses to connect with highly motivated young people who are ready for work and looking for a way to impress employers.”