A new awards evening will recognise youth and employers who are making the most of employment opportunities in Kāpiti.
The newly formed Work Ready Kāpiti Foundation will host the awards, alongside a range of other initiatives aimed at supporting and encouraging young people into meaningful local employment.
Bryan Gundersen, Foundation Chair, says a new sponsorship programme will help fund and enable the awards and the foundation’s ongoing work in Kāpiti.
“Our first major sponsor is Pzazz Builders, we’re delighted to work alongside this local business to build the Foundation. They have a long-term commitment to improving youth employment, taking on and training a number of apprentices who have gone on own their own businesses,” says Mr Gundersen.
The launch of the Work Ready Kāpiti Foundation rounds out a busy few months for the group since their first event held in August, which saw more than 70 young people and employers connect at Whitireia Polytechnic.
“Our first group of students have been accepted into the Work Ready Passport programme with two students from Ōtaki College having already completed their passport workbook. A new digital version will be available in early 2018. We’re also looking to hold four ‘speed dating’ events next year to connect more young people with local businesses,” says Mr Gundersen.
The Work Ready Kāpiti Awards are planned for later in 2018 and will initially recognise Employer and Youth Employee of The Year, along with Most Innovative Young Job Seeker.
About Work Ready Kāpiti
Work Ready Kāpiti is a not-for-profit, committed to helping 16-25 year olds transition into local employment. A joint initiative between The Kāpiti Coast Chamber of Commerce, The Kāpiti Coast District Council and the Kāpiti Youth Employment Strategy Group, it brings together a range of experience and expertise to build enduring relationships between youth and Kāpiti employers.
For more information visit www.workreadykapiti.com.
