Building career pathways for young Manitobans
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Stepping into the workforce for the first time can be tough. I know that from my own experience as a young person, and now as the youngest woman elected to the Manitoba Legislature. Writing your first resume, walking into an interview, or even figuring out your career path can feel intimidating.
That’s why the work being done by Youth Employment Services Manitoba is so important. Since 1973, YES Manitoba has been opening doors for young Manitobans. Each year, more than 700 youth aged 16-29 connect with YES Manitoba for support. What makes YES so impactful is that it uses a person-first approach to meet youth exactly where they are at.
Beyond mentorship, YES Manitoba provides youth with the tools they need to succeed. At YES Manitoba, youth have access to free certifications such as first aid, food safety, and Smart Choices. YES Manitoba also offers workshops and career planning sessions that help make the job market less intimidating. Instead of leaving youth to figure things out alone, YES Manitoba makes sure they feel ready, supported, and confident.
Lacy Bird of Black River First Nation is pictured with MLA Jelynn Dela Cruz at the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Pow Wow hosted by the Southern Chiefs’ Organization. At just 16, Lacy is inspiring the next generation by breaking barriers and encouraging young people to attend school.
As MLA for Radisson, it is my duty to serve as a catalyst for youth employment in our community and across Manitoba. My goal is to continue to help connect young people to opportunities that fit their skills and passions.
I see the incredible potential in the young people I meet every day — in our schools, in local businesses, and throughout our community. For example, I had the opportunity to connect with Lacy Bird from Black River First Nation at the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Pow Wow hosted by the Southern Chiefs’ Organization. At just 16, Lacy is inspiring the next generation by breaking barriers and encouraging young people to attend school.
Lacy shows us that when young Manitobans succeed, Manitoba succeeds. Together, we can create opportunities that empower youth, strengthen communities, and build a brighter future for everyone.
That work can’t happen in isolation. Supporting youth employment takes all of us, our government, schools, community organizations, and local employers. I’m always open to hearing from anyone with ideas, questions, or concerns about how we can strengthen youth employment in our province.
Whether you’re a young person looking for work, an employer hoping to hire, or someone with a passion for supporting youth, my office is here to listen and to partner with you. I invite you to reach out by contacting me at 204-599-2080 or jelynn@yourmanitoba.ca