The tourism and hospitality sector is a key economic driver and job creator, especially for young Canadians. That is why the Government of Canada is taking action to help youth prepare for careers in this growing part of the economy.
Today, to mark World Tourism Day, the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, Marci Ien, highlighted Government of Canada investments that support young people getting the skills, training and opportunities they need in the tourism and hospitality sector.
These investments include funding of $15 million for eight Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) projects that provide placements for 1,100 youth.
Tourism Saskatchewan is an example of an organization that received funding for their Ready to Work Tourism Hospitality and Camp Services Careers initiative, which will give 180 young people the skills, knowledge and experience for long-term, stable employment in tourism.
In addition, through the Student Work Placement Program, the Government has invested $10.3 million toward the Tourism HR Canada project called Propel, to create close to 1,400 work placements for post-secondary students. This funding will help youth develop the work-ready skills they need to have meaningful careers upon graduation.
Today's announcement builds on the Government's ongoing actions to help young Canadians, particularly those facing barriers to employment, adapt to the demands of an evolving workforce and move forward from the impacts of the pandemic.
