Across Canada, employers are seeking young people who are confident, resilient, adaptable, and ready to contribute. At the same time, young people are navigating an increasingly complex transition from education to meaningful work. Through The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, young people develop proven transferable skills through experiential learning beyond the classroom.
The Award Employer Partnership makes the connection
The Award Employer Partnership recognizes and values those skills, helping employers connect with motivated young people who are prepared for the realities of today’s workplace.
Source: The Business Council of Canada, Navigating Change: 2018 Business Council Skills Survey
Communication
Collaboration/ & Teamwork
Resiliency & Determination
Problem-solving skills
Source: Award Holder Employability Survey RBC Forum Research, The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Canada
86% were confident in their ability to consider viewpoints that are different from their own
90% were confident working cooperatively in groups to complete tasks, projects, or activities
84% indicated regardless of obstacles, they finish what they begin
79% were confident in their ability to thinking outside of the box and developing new ideas
What Is the Award Employer Partnership?
The Award Employer Partnership is a national initiative for employers and organizations who recognize the value of the skills and attributes young people develop through the Award’s experiential learning framework. Partners join a growing national network that supports young people as they enter the workforce and strengthens connections between education, community, and employment.
Award Employer Partners choose to engage in ways that align with their organization’s priorities, including:
Recognizing Award achievement in recruitment and hiring processes
Offering employment opportunities, work placements, or internships
Providing mentorship, workshops, or skills development opportunities
Engaging with Award alumni and participants across Canada
Participating in information sessions and knowledge sharing with Award Canada
Join the Award Employer Partnership
Whether you are a small business or a national organization, becoming an Award Employer Partner is an opportunity to invest in young people while strengthening your workforce and community impact. There is no financial requirement to become an Award Employer Partner. The partnership is grounded in recognition, engagement, and shared commitment to preparing young people for life and work.
