In an innovative step toward bridging the employment gap for marginalized youth, George Brown College (GBC), in collaboration with Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) and the Pinball Clemons Foundation (PCF), has announced the launch of the Essential Employability Skills Basics micro-credential program. This online initiative aims to provide accessible and career-focused education to empower underserved young people across Canada.

The program, set to begin in fall 2024, will be delivered to seven cohorts nationwide, running through spring 2025. It is designed to equip participants with essential skills to secure meaningful employment while offering mentorship and job placement opportunities facilitated by The Whiteboard Collective.

Micro-credentials, often referred to as digital badges or certificates, have gained popularity in recent years as a flexible and effective way to upskill individuals for evolving job markets. These credentials help participants enhance their abilities, enabling them to either retrain for new career paths or strengthen their employability in their current fields.

Supported by the Pinball Clemons Foundation, the initiative will focus on fostering skills development in communities often left behind in traditional educational settings. The program’s reach spans cohorts in Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Calgary, with local partnerships ensuring the initiative meets regional employment needs. Bow Valley College will join forces with the program to support cohorts in Alberta.

“We’re thrilled to partner with GBC and RRC Polytech on this program,” said Michael “Pinball” Clemons, founder of PCF. “By creating opportunities for underserved youth to build their employability skills and access mentorship, we’re breaking barriers and paving pathways for success.”

Dr. Christine Watson, Vice President, Academic, RRC Polytech, emphasized the program’s significance. “This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering lifelong learning and creating academic pathways that empower students to achieve their fullest potential,” she said.

Participants will benefit from a blended learning approach that combines theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. The mentorship component aims to build confidence and professional networks for students, further enhancing their readiness for employment.

As the program prepares to launch, stakeholders remain optimistic about its potential to transform lives and communities. By focusing on marginalized youth, the Essential Employability Skills Basics program hopes to address gaps in education and employment, fostering a generation of skilled, empowered, and job-ready individuals.

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