SYDNEY, N.S. — A networking event that brought the local business community together with persons with disabilities seeking jobs will now become an annual event after a successful inaugural gathering.
NetworkIt! was a partnership between the Nova Scotia Works Employment Services Centres of the CBRM and the Horizon Achievement Centre that took place on Oct. 23.
The event was held at the Horizon Achievement Centre and featured more than 20 participants and a variety of representatives from local businesses.
Remarks from Marcus Jamieson, the provincial co-ordinator for MentorAbility, and Scott Morrison, an inclusive employer and owner of Flavor Restaurants, were also part of the schedule.
“At Flavor, we have been actively hiring persons with disabilities since we opened in 2008,” said Morrison, in a news release.
“Since day one, we have always had very positive experiences when it came to hiring and retaining persons with disabilities. Hiring persons with disabilities is not only good business, it is essential for the future growth of every company. A successful business needs to be part of its community. That’s non-negotiable.”
Jamieson spoke about "leading with inclusion" and how Gen Z is now entering the workforce and cares even more about inclusion, diversity and workplace culture.
After the speakers, participants had time to network with employers, agencies and one another.
Support people from the various agencies noticed connections being made and confidence being boosted as impromptu interviews took place and job seekers were able to share skills and practice networking skills.
“The need is there in our community, to bring together interested business owners and organizations, with the job seekers who take advantage of our agencies’ service,” said Leah Noble, employment counsellor with the Horizon Achievement Centre, in a news release.
“We all want our clients and our community to be successful so why not work together for that goal? The committee is already at work on future events.”
For more information contact the Horizon Achievement Centre or the YMCA of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia Works Employment Services Centre.
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