2 0 1 9 CANADA YOUTH TO BUSINESS REPORT 80+ Business Representatives 26 Universities 1000+ Youth Engaged
TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 3 Page 4 Page 6 Page 8 Page 12 Page 14 Page 18 Page 24 Page 26
What is AIESEC? Youth to Business Series Youth to Business Ambassadors Youth to Business Survey Youth to Business Summit Youth to Business Launch Youth to Business Forum Partners Acknowledgments & Contact
WHAT IS AIESEC?
2
AIESEC is a global youth-led organization striving to achieve peace and fulfillment of humankind’s potential by activating leadership qualities in youth through learning from practical experiences in challenging environments. Together with partner organizations, AIESEC facilitates a network of crosscultural exchanges in the form of volunteering experiences and professional internships.
THE LEADERSHIP WE DEVELOP
FAST FACTS: 120+
Countries and territories
50,000+ Active members
Self-Aware
Word Citizen
6,500
Social projects run annually
30+
Global partner organizations
1,000,000+
Young people developed since 1948 Empowering others
Solution-oriented
3
3
YOUTH TO BUSINESS
S E R I
BRINGING BUSINESS & YOUTH TOGETHER
Since 2010, The Canada Youth to Business Series has brought businesses, organizations, government, and students together to engage in a unique dialogue on relevant topics to both Canadian businesses and student communities. AIESEC in Canada brings together key stakeholders within the Canadian community and bridges the gap between youth and business, supporting Canada forward by exploring different perspectives, sharing ideas, and building a better future together. 4
THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW: PREPARING FOR THE CHANGING WORLD OF WORK
In 2019, the Youth to Business Series tackled the issue of Canada’s fast changing world of work. We focused on three key areas: practical experiences, relationship building, and competency development. Throughout the Youth to Business Series, youth and leaders from across sectors were brought together in discussion, workshops, panels, and other collaborative spaces to address the question: how do we prepare for the changing world of work and develop the leaders of tomorrow?
E S
5
4
YOUTH TO BUSINESS AMBASSADORS
For the first time this year, we created a new Ambassadors program to encourage more AIESEC members and other youth to share their voice with Canadian businesses. YThe Youth to Business Ambassadors were a national commission of 20 young AIESEC members from universities across Canada. The Ambassadors were given the opportunity to help bridge the gap between youth and business through the Youth to Business Survey. This was a huge initiative to expand the reach of AIESEC and the Youth to Business brand. With the work of this commission, AIESEC in Canada was able to gather more than over 570 responses.
Jemin Patel Youth to Business Ambassador
6
“Being a Youth to Business Ambassador was such an enriching opportunity for me to grow both professionally and personally. I was driven to collect various youth voices about contemporary business issues. It enlightens one to grasp the significance of how understanding the youth perspective is the key to business success and transformative innovations. Furthermore, the Y2B forum was a surreal experience to connect with business professionals, to branch out my network, because, at the end of the day, the bigger your network, the bigger your net worth.�
7
5
YOUTH TO BUSINESS SURVEY
WHAT IS THE CANADIAN YOUTH TO BUSINESS SURVEY? Every year AIESEC in Canada releases the Youth to Business Survey to better understand the priorities of young people and communicate them to professionals across sectors. In 2019, we partnered with RBC Future Launch to help bridge the gap between youth and business.
DEMOGRAPHICS
We surveyed a total of 572 people. Of which:
AIESEC member vs Non-AIESEC youth
Gender Diversity
Non-AIESEC youth
Male 208
Female 332
AIESEC members
Years of Study
8
1st Year 189
2nd Year 156
3rd Year 93
4th Year 53
5th Year+ 17
Program of Study
CAREER INSIGHTS
Respondents seek, or participate in, career opportunities to help develop and perfect their professional skills as well as expand their network. On the other hand, the top three grievances to obtaining a career opportunity are as follows: I don’t have the experience I don’t have the connections to the right opportunities I don’t have the time
29.5% (137) 40.2% (187) 30.3% (141)
Due to the high percentage of first and second year students, not all respondents were decided on which industries they are interested to work in for their next career opportunity. Of those decided, the following industries were of the most interest: Financial and Insurance Services Information Media and Telecommunications Healthcare and Social Assistance Education and Training Public Administration and Safety
28.6% (161) 24.2% (136) 19.9% (112) 14.9% (84) 12.4% (70) 9
Businesses must maintain a regular LinkedIn presence to connect with youth. Over 55% of respondents use LinkedIn as the primary online resource to connect with professionals. In addition, the best way to connect with students on campus is to attend networking events, job fairs, and other events arranged by the university’s career centre. When businesses are designing career opportunities, it is important to keep in mind that youth look for jobs which can offer learning opportunities, a good work-life balance, an ability to socialize in the workplace, chances to help society, and other priorities as seen below. 0
50
100
150
Learning Opportunities Work-Life Balance Ability to socialize Chances to help society Teamwork Flexibility Creativity Challenges Money Independence Innovation Job Security Promotion and Respect Belongingness Power Status 10
200
250
300
350 - Number of Respondents
Lastly, respondents view the following skills and competencies as the most important for employers: Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Communication Teamwork and Collaboration Adaptability Creativity and Innovation Information Communication and Technology/Digital Literacy
22.9% (407) 21.6% (384) 20.9% (371) 19.3% (343) 15.3% (271) 12.1% (215)
However, respondents believe that to be more ready for the workplace they need to work on information communication and technology, digital literacy, financial literacy, and mathematical skills.
11
YOUTH TO BUSINESS SUMMIT From December 30th-31st at the Youth to Business Summit, 30 youth connected to identify the actions needed to develop their competencies, experience, and network to remain competitive in the changing world of work. Our conversations focused on the Sustainable Development Goals launched by the United Nations. Below are key learnings from the event.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOAL THEMES
Victoria Wong Business Analyst at TELUS
“The Summit challenged me to think differently and reflect on my AIESEC journey this year. It emphasized the importance of building a network and how to best highlight your achievements to strengthen your personal brand. From discussions of financial stability to conversations of cultural heritage, this Youth to Business experience impacted my perspective on life moving forward.”
“Youth to Business Summit was a great opportunity to reflect on the positive impact our AIESEC journeys have had on our lives, while opening ourselves up to being vulnerable and building deeper connections with each other.”
12
Ceejay Quach Business Technology Analyst at BMO Financial Group
13
6
YOUTH TO BUSINESS LAUNCH
On May 1st, 2019, AIESEC in Canada introduced the first ever Youth to Business Launch featuring 11 local partners in Calgary. This kick-off event featured a Careers in Calgary Business EXPO for students to explore career opportunities, a Dinner with Leaders event for riveting conversations with business executives from dozens of industries, and the Innovation Workshop Series for collaborative learning about innovation and disruption.
Featured: 2 keynotes 4 workshops 13 exhibit booths 39 round table discussions.
Opening Keynote Jenna Arora CEO Jenna Arora Performance Coaching
YOUTH TO BUSINESS LAUNCH: DINNER WITH LEADERS Hosted in collaboration with the Canadian Centre for Advanced Leadership (CCAL), the Dinner with Leaders centered on the power of conversation and personal interaction. We shared our passion for ethical business and youth leadership by inviting 40 of Calgary’s top business executives, thought leaders, and entrepreneurs to dine with delegates. Participants engaged in riveting conversations about leadership and collaboration. 14
Keynote Graham Sherman CEO, Tool Shed Brewing Company
15
YOUTH TO BUSINESS LAUNCH: INNOVATION WORKSHOP Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking and Learning - Innovation Leadership Delegates explored the difference between Innovation Leadership and traditional leadership. Delegates were challenged to think critically about what it takes to spur creativity in organizations and what questions can be used to turn creativity into impact.
Nutrien, Industry 4.0 – Be Digital, Be Authentic Successful leaders are choosing to be ‘Digital Masters’ and delivering significantly more profitability and success compared to their peers. Nutrien’s workshop created a conversation around the key qualities future leaders must have to be successful in this new era.
16
Benevity - A New Approach to Policies This workshop was a thought-provoking, interactive session designed to get participants to look at what might be considered a dry topic (policies) as the hugely impactful and culture-defining issue that it is! Delegates expanded their perspectives and understanding of corporate policy, and participated in group discussions about how policy is a tool for good.
Avnet Inc. - Thriving in Chaos: Say “Hey” to the Fourth Industrial Revolution During this workshop, delegates explored the topic of the 4th industrial revolution and the relationship to other important sub-topics such as: “How can we use technology as an equalizer?”, “Is the co-existence of ethics, fairness, and disruption both possible and necessary?” and “How can we capitalize on, and stimulate creativity, while balancing structure and goals?” 17
7
YOUTH TO BUSINESS FORUM
On May 2nd, 2019, AIESEC in Canada brought together 230 youth leaders from 26 universities across the country to collaborate with Canada’s top executives to address the question, “What actions do key stakeholders of Canada need to take to prepare for the changing world of work and create the leaders of tomorrow?” The event included panel discussions of relationship building and competency development, capacity-building workshops, and various discussion spaces. Our delegates were able to learn from a diverse representation of industry while expressing their opinions on global issues and problems occurring in Canada.
Featured: 2 keynotes 2 panels 3 consultancy spaces 5 exhibit booths 6 workshops 25 round tables.
NON-AIESEC DELEGATES
The Youth to Business Forum opened its doors to 20 non-AIESEC youth to join the event. We hope to continue expanding this initiative in the future to foster more dialogue between youth and business. 18
YOUTH TO BUSINESS FORUM SPEAKERS & PANELISTS Master of Ceremonies Russ Erickson Director of Business Development Nureva AIESEC Alumnus
Keynotes
Opening Keynote Court Ellingson Vice President of Research and Strategy Calgary Economic Development AIESEC Alumnus Keynote Jessica Zelinka Olympian & International Athlete Team Canada Smith Alumna
Competency Development Panelists Jenna Arora CEO Jenna Arora Performance Coaching Davinder Valeri Director of Strategy Risk & Organizational Performance Management CPA Canada Domenico Invitti Vice President of Outgoing Global Volunteer AIESEC at the University of Ottawa
Key learnings: The panel focused on competencies: the mindful application of skills depending on context and efficacy. The development of competencies is achieved through the acquisition of hard and soft skills, both of which are essential for success in the changing world of work. Davinder “This whole event, what we’re doing here is gaining the soft skills needed for the workforce. You’re learning how to build relationships and how to work in a team and those are key attributes that any employer will value and appreciate.”
19
Relationship Building Panelists Richelle Matthews Director of Employer & Community Engagement Global Talent Accelerator
Kerri Regan Director of Master of International Business Smith School of Business Arjun Sundal Exchange Participant Manager AIESEC at York University
20
Key learnings: The panel focused on Relationship Building. Building meaningful connections is an essential component of creating opportunity for oneself in this global economy. Taking advantage of cross-disciplinary and crosscultural opportunities is crucial in the labour market. Kerri “Young people have so many opportunities with social media tools and with that comes responsibility. What you chose to share tells a part of your story and you need to make sure it is telling the right part.�
21
YOUTH TO BUSINESS FORUM WORKSHOPS
ROUND 1
Jenna Arora, Mastering Personalities Delegates developed the skills to form trusting relationships with anyone in their personal or professional lives. They grew a greater sense of abundance, autonomy and freedom in deciding whom they choose to do business with.
Export Development Canada, International Trade Simulation Delegates got a taste of international trade by simulating a real transaction between a Canadian company and a foreign buyer, with EDC as a financial intermediary. They came to understand the importance and challenges of dealing with regulatory parties and governments when conducting business abroad. QUOTE: Bill Huang Sales Associate, ZARA
“It made me realize that actively listening and understanding the perspective of the other side is needed in order to have a successful negotiation.”
International Experience Canada, Building Bridges to International Internships Delegates explored the complex question of why so few Canadians take advantage of international internship and co-op opportunities. They brainstormed innovative solutions to put in place to get more Canadians working and exploring outside of Canada’s borders.
22
ROUND 2
Smith School of Business, Beyond Goal Setting Using an action-step process, this workshop taught methods for targeting the delegates’ goals with clarity and certainty. They learned tools from the high performance sporting world to expand their capacity immediately and to tap into their true potential without limitations.
Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada, Climate Change Adaptation: Risks & Opportunities A changing climate gives rise to a variety of organizational issues including operational, financial and strategic planning concerns. This session showed how to recognize risks and opportunities of climate change and how finance and accounting competencies are relevant in responding to climate change.
QUOTE: Tania Kwan Wealth Management Intern, Sun Life Financial
“CPA’s workshop on climate change was easily my favourite part of the event. I really enjoyed the open discussion about the impact that climate change will have on the choices and future of different industries. As someone who has always wanted to play an active role in combating climate change, this workshop reignited my passion to pursue environmental law.”
ATB Financial, Don’t leave your “real” self out of the recruitment process! Delegates learned why it’s important to show up as their authentic self throughout the recruitment process and how they could go about doing that. They practiced what it takes to bring their true self to the table and discovered the impact they could have when accomplishing this. 23
8
PARTNERS
YOUTH TO BUSINESS FORUM Theme Partners: AGF Ltd., Smith School of Business
Panel Partners: Chartered Professional Accounts of Canada, Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada
Workshop Partners: Export Development Canada, International Experience Canada
Connecting Partners: Air Canada, TheEconomist, Global Talent Accelerator, Nureva, Jenna Arora Performance Coaching
24
YOUTH TO BUSINESS LAUNCH Title Partner: Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking at the University of Calgary
Gold Partner: Calgary Economic Development
Innovation Partners: Nutrien, AVNET, Benevity
Silver Partners: Haskayne School of Business at the University of Calgary, ATB Financial
Bronze Partners: AESO, Husky, Enbridge, CAPP, Pepsico, Rockmount
25
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS & CONTACT The Canada Youth to Business Series 2019 was organized by:
Lachlan Alexander Karr National Vice-President, Business Development E-mail: lachlank@aiesec.ca AIESEC in Canada 2018-19
To get involved with the Canada Youth to Business Series 2020, please contact:
26
Farouk Shoukry National Vice-President, Business Development E-mail: farouks@aiesec.ca AIESEC in Canada 2019-20
The AIESEC in Canada Youth to Business Report 2019 was designed by Adrian Dascal. The AIESEC in Canada Youth to Business Launch 2019 was managed by Karen K. Ngo and Jacoby Holder. The AIESEC in Canada Youth to Business Forum 2019 was managed by Chhavi Reddy.
27