More than 35 Grade 7 and 8 classrooms across Chatham-Kent took part in a live virtual discussion with Mayor Darrin Canniff on Jan. 28, aimed at highlighting the opportunities available to young people in the community.
The 45-minute interactive session introduced students to reasons people choose to live, learn and build their futures in Chatham-Kent, whether they remain in the area, leave for post-secondary education or return later in life. Students participated in guided discussions and a question-and-answer period with the mayor, focusing on local lifestyle and recreation opportunities, innovation and artificial intelligence in the workplace, and a range of career pathways available in the region.
Students also heard from a panel of local professionals who have built careers in Chatham-Kent, including individuals who returned to the community after studying or working elsewhere.
“Showing our youth the many opportunities available in Chatham-Kent, both for lifestyle and careers, is incredibly important,” Canniff said. “When young people understand the pathways to meaningful work and see the innovative industries growing here, it helps them imagine what their future could look like in Chatham-Kent. Whether they stay or return later, we want them to know they always have a place here.”
The session was delivered in partnership with local school boards and supports the work of the Job Preparation Action Team, managed by the municipality’s Community Attraction and Promotion department. The initiative focuses on increasing youth awareness of local career opportunities, strengthening connections between education and employment and helping students explore real-world challenges through community collaboration.
Municipal officials say the initiative also supports broader talent attraction and retention efforts by encouraging young people to view Chatham-Kent as a place where they can build both their lives and their careers.
