4 July 2018

Porirua’s JOBfest 2018 is primed to happen at Pātaka next month, bringing together employers who are looking to recruit and local students and job seekers who are keen to enter the workforce.

JOBfest supports the Youth2Work movement, which has the goal of ensuring our young people are all ‘earning or learning’. The movement is a joint initiative of Partners Porirua, Porirua City Council, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, businesses, schools and the community.

Mayor Mike Tana thanked the 20+ businesses and organisations that were already signed up for this year’s JOBfest and says it’s not too late to sign up for JOBfest 2018.

“We’re looking for students, educators, businesses, leaders and the community to join us and get involved. A big shout out to everyone who is already on board – you’re recognising the skills of our young people here in Porirua.

“If you’ve been thinking about supporting our rangatahi there are still some spaces available for exhibitors and Partners Porirua is looking for more companies to sponsor JOBfest,” he says.

Last year’s JOBfest directly resulted in more than 60 full- and part-time positions being filled, with continued recruitment from JOBfest since then.

Councillor Dale Williams, who created and led the Youth2Work movement, is passionate about helping youth into employment.

“The greatest challenge for all employers and industries is attracting and retaining good quality young staff to help grow their businesses, and ensure future prosperity and sustainability,” says Cr Williams.

“New Zealand now has less than 4.4% unemployment, and labour market participation at around 70%, which is among the highest in developed world economies – essentially full employment and a very tight labour market. So skills and labour shortages are here to stay.

“The good news however, is that Porirua has the largest group of young people of any city in New Zealand! And the Porirua Youth2Work Movements aim is to work with local employers, support networks, and local young people, to ensure our Porirua job seekers are the best fit for Porirua jobs!

“JOBfest is one of the most important events for everyone who is thinking about work. It’s where Porirua job seekers and job providers come together – one place, one time, one purpose – to see what is available, and to make connections that lead to mahi.

To find out more, call Workforce Development Manager Jacqui Edwards on 237 1097, email Jacqui@partnersporirua.org.nz , or check out the website youth2work,org.nz

JOBfest will be held on 22 August from 10am–3pm at Pātaka Art + Museum.

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