A unique type of job fair aimed at youth rocks and rolls into Nanaimo Tuesday (Oct. 9).
JobFest is the province’s rock concert-themed, travelling career fair that gives youth labour market information while live bands provide entertainment – and an incentive to show up.
Students also receive giveaways such as T-shirts and DVDs.
JobFest introduces youth to different career options through face-to-face discussions with event presenters, guest speakers, six career exploration tools developed by the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training, and interactive games.
For the Nanaimo event, the province has partnered with the Young Professionals of Nanaimo to help get the word out and line up local bands.
“It’s not just your typical job fair, it’s more like a job festival,” said Chris Cathers, YPN public relations director. “It makes it fun. We’re encouraging our members to come down to answer any questions youth may have about a particular job or career.”
Last month, the Young Professionals of Nanaimo hosted a Facebook competition encouraging local bands to submit videos for a chance to play at the event.
The page received 14,000 hits, with people voting on 15 different videos, and the two bands with the most “likes” on their videos – Braeden Marshal and The Distributors – will play at JobFest, along with Victoria-based Acres of Lions.
The event runs from 12-6 p.m. at Beban Park and will be held outside if the weather holds.
Cathers said the school district is bringing students and guest speakers include Nanaimo Coun. George Anderson, Michael Delves, chairman of the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce, and a representative from the Automotive Training Standards Organization.
The Nanaimo Clippers and VI Raiders will also be there giving away tickets to games.
The idea behind JobFest is to reach out to youth aged 15-25 in a fun, interactive and engaging manner with the goal of sparking interest and passion in future careers in B.C.
For more information, please go to www.jobfest2012.ca.