The Mayors Taskforce For Jobs team attended the Southern Canterbury A&P Show in Waimate earlier this month to showcase local employment opportunities, connect with employers, and promote its driver licensing program.
Employment Coordinator Lisa Dobson shared that since July, 13 people have directly gained employment through the programme, and many others are being assisted with training, upskilling, and work readiness.
Lisa acknowledged that it’s currently a tough environment for job seekers.
"Before Christmas, the job market typically slows down, and it is also a challenging economic climate for businesses," Lisa noted.
“We are grateful to our local businesses that do their best to provide opportunities and employ locals.”
“It is often challenging to look for work, but it pays to be proactive and not be afraid to ask employers directly about upcoming vacancies.”
Along with connecting job seekers to employment, the Mayors Taskforce For Jobs also assists with training and job readiness.
A significant part of this effort includes helping people attain their driver licenses. In August, Driver License Programme Coordinator Deborah Kibble began providing lessons locally. Since then, she has conducted 82 lessons, with more than 40 learner drivers currently registered in the programme.
Jobseekers and employers can contact Lisa by emailing lisa.dobson@waimatedc.govt.nz.
