Every career starts somewhere: Wigan event puts opportunities for young people within reach
Building Connections returns for its third year, bringing career opportunities, employers and activities together for 16 to 25-year-olds.
Young people across Wigan and Leigh can explore their next steps at Building Connections, returning to Wigan Youth Zone on Wednesday November 18.
The free careers fair will run from 11am to 2pm, bringing together employers, training providers and opportunities for young people aged 16 to 25.
Now in its third year in Wigan, the event aims to help young people explore their options, discover different career paths and make connections with employers.
Whether they are looking for their first job, considering an apprenticeship or exploring further training, attendees can ask questions and find out what opportunities are available.
The event will showcase opportunities across a wide range of sectors, including construction, engineering, finance, manufacturing, education, marketing and renewable energy.
Stallholders include NatWest, Wigan Athletic Community Trust, Kraft Heinz, Caddick Construction, Wigan Council, Bolton College and the University of Greater Manchester, alongside organisations offering opportunities in travel, logistics, property, the armed forces and more.
The variety of stallholders will give young people the chance to explore different career paths, speak directly with employers and discover routes into work, apprenticeships and further training.
The event offers plenty to enjoy beyond careers conversations.
Attendees can grab a free ice cream, try out a 360° camera and get involved in games and activities in Wigan Youth Zone’s Rec area.
There will also be opportunities to play football and have a go on the climbing wall.
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners will be bringing along a range of games, with prizes up for grabs and free drinks for people to enjoy.
Samuel Blakeledge, senior employability advisor at Wigan Youth Zone, said:
“Choosing what to do next can feel like a big decision, especially when you’re not sure what options are available. Building Connections gives young people the chance to meet employers, ask questions and explore different possibilities in one place.
“We want young people to feel comfortable coming along, whatever stage they’re at.
“You don’t need to know exactly what you want to do. Sometimes, talking to someone about an opportunity can help you see a completely different path.
“By bringing employers and training providers together, we can help young people discover opportunities, build their confidence and take that first step towards their future.”
Wigan Youth Zone delivers Building Connections in partnership with UK Youth and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners and Wigan Council.
The event forms part of wider efforts to connect young people with employment, education and training opportunities across the borough.