Over 120 young people in the Brimbank area attended a careers expo last week aimed at improving job prospects for youth.
The expo, organised by Youth Projects in collaboration with Brimbank council, was open to 15 to 24-years old and had about 15 employer stalls as well as service providers present at the event.
Youth Projects recruitment partner team leader Mariam Menas said it was the first careers expo planned by the organisation.
“[The expo was] an opportunity for young people to come in and meet with employers face to face… get more information about the industry, career pathways or maybe even do an interview,” she said.
Western region employment facilitators were also present at the event.
“They basically work with providers and employers and they connect people with each other for potential opportunities,” said Ms Menas.
The event provided free lunch for attendees and activities which included door prizes, a photo booth and VR headsets.
“We didn’t want it just to be in and out…speak to an employer and get out. We wanted to make it a fun day as well,” Ms Menas said.
Ms Menas said young people are often left out from employment opportunities as priority is given to those with experience, reliable transport, skills and qualifications.
“A lot of young people have anxiety getting into that first job,” she said.
“We are now trying to meet with a lot of large employers to educate them… and just speak to them about the benefits of hiring a young person.”
