Christian Intendencia (10) | STAFF REPORTER
With tons more jobs being created, it seems like getting employed should be simple! False. Getting employed these days is harder than ever: there are impossible ATS’s (AI software used to simplify the recruitment process), endless rounds of interviews for the lucky few, constant disrespect from recruiters, entry-level jobs requiring 2-3 years of experience, etc. Understandably, youth are as frustrated as ever, often questioning, “How are we supposed to get experience if nobody is willing to give us any?” With so many eager and talented youth ready to get into the workforce, it’s a shame that youth employment in Canada has been at its lowest for over a decade.
It’s been proven that youth employment is extremely beneficial for both youth and the economy. Many studies have shown the correlation between youth employment and a decrease in arising issues such as youth crime and youth violence. More youth in the workforce results in more youth being in a professional environment, learning important life skills, and gaining valuable experience. In fact, Jewel Ham was only 21 years old when she transformed Spotify Wrapped from an email and a playlist to the interactive experience it is today.
More youth than ever have been wanting jobs, and it’s necessary to keep up with this demand. Providing more jobs means fueling the next generation in the workforce and equipping them with the necessary resources and knowledge to ensure they thrive in their careers. Providing more jobs means eliminating the never-ending hopelessness, uncertainty, and disappointment that comes with the unnoticed effort of submitting hundreds of job applications, tailoring resumes and cover letters, and emailing recruiters. Ultimately, a commitment to youth employment not only benefits individuals but also the economy and society as a whole.
