Fortnight of events to kick-start careers

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Pic: Natalie M Rostran

Young adults in the Hackney area have been invited to kick-start their careers at a fortnight of free workshops and events.

The Hackney Opportunities Fortnight comprises 16 varied events ranging from getting career inspiration, how to get back into work and training events to creative workshops helping young people illustrate their ambitions through art.

Hackney Council have joined up with Hackney Learning Trust, universities, colleges and businesses to organise the two weeks.

Jules Pipe, Mayor of Hackney stated: “Hackney is a borough with a huge variety of opportunities across all industries, from retail and hospitality to tech and fashion, amongst many others. However, despite this huge local economic growth, some of our young people may be finding it difficult to start a chosen profession.

“We’ve teamed-up with a host of partners to arrange a great line-up of events that will give Hackney’s young people an opportunity to explore their ambitions, get the know-how from Hackney businesses, while also finding out what may help to start a career or get back into employment.”

Statistics from 2015 found that unemployment for the 16-24 age group in London is at 10.7%, two and a half times higher than unemployment rates for 25-60 year olds at 4.3%.

Monique Smith, one of the organisers of an event called Pembury Hook Up stated that she believes it’s important to help young people into employment, and HackneyCVS aim to create “unique, innovative events” to do this.

Smith said: “It’s important that the events are not boring. We have DJs and food provided as well as a panel setup so that young people can get more insight and are more comfortable and relaxed.

“They can network with employers, and we even have performances to showcase their talent.”

Events are listed here: https://www.younghackney.org/campaign/opportunities-fortnight/

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