Beacon Community Services is providing a new opportunity to those facing workforce challenges.
From staff shortages to shrinking labour pools, many of those in the job market are facing difficulties. As organizations search for creative solutions, Beacon Community Services is giving people an opportunity to learn from some formidable business leaders.
“We are excited to be breaking ground on bringing people together around this much-needed topic,” said Tricia Gueulette, Beacon Community Services CEO. “This forum is about opening up the doors to conversations and thinking outside the box when it comes to the needs of businesses and job seekers.”
The Victoria non-profit has announced it will host a free virtual forum on Friday, Feb. 7, 2025. The forum, Workforce Challenges – Strategizing Outside the Box will feature keynote speaker Chief Clarence Louie of the Osoyoos Band, along with other panellists at three fireside chats. It will give prospective employees, business owners and anyone else interested the opportunity to discuss workplace challenges and hear new ideas.
Chief Louie is known as the driving force behind the Okanagan's top employer, the Osoyoos Indian Band. He has taken on a number of business ventures from vineyards to tech companies. Elected to the Osoyoos Indian band in 1984, he has since transformed it into a dynamic organization with distinct businesses employing hundreds in the region. Chief Louie now holds the Order of British Columbia, the Order of Canada and was inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame in 2019.
The rest of the panel, comprised of thought leaders and subject matter experts in their respective fields, is set to share new strategies and innovative ideas to address the hiring needs of businesses.
Bruce Williams, CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce will lead the day, which will include a Q&A period following all three fireside chats. The three sessions are titled Empowering Communities: The Role of Social Enterprises in Job Creation, Harnessing the Talent of Canadian Newcomers and Reskilling for the Future – Embracing AI & Skills Needed in the Workplace.
Those interested can find more information on Beacon Community Services website.
