Youth Jobs: Mississauga Youth Deserve a First Chance

As I’ve been on the campaign trail, I’ve spoken with young people who are eager to work, gain experience, and start building their future. But for many, getting that first job can be the hardest part. You need experience to get a job, but you need a job to gain experience.

That catch-22 can be especially difficult for young people who don’t have family networks to help them find opportunities, reliable transportation, confidence, or a formal work history. Mississauga should be helping break down those barriers.

As Mayor, I will create a City-led employment partnership connecting Mississauga youth with summer jobs, first work experiences, resume support and paid placements. We will bring together City jobs, community organizations, small businesses and Canada Summer Jobs funding to create more opportunities for young people.

The City can help connect young people with employers and opportunities they may not otherwise have access to. Community organizations and local businesses can also play an important role in making sure these opportunities reach youth across Mississauga.

This is about giving young people a chance to build the skills, confidence and work experience they need to take their next step.

Paid work also means more consistent opportunities for young people to stay engaged in their neighbourhoods and contribute to their communities. Creating those opportunities should be part of how we support young people across Mississauga. No young person should be told they need experience before they can get their first chance to gain it.

As Mayor, I will bring the City, local employers, and community partners together to help more Mississauga youth get their first job, build valuable experience, and take their next step toward a career.