Over 100 Gold Coast employers came to learn
Last December, the Gold Coast Youth Employment Body (GCYEB) hosted the “Attract and Grow Your Workforce” event, showcasing the valuable contributions of young people in today’s job market. A highlight of the day was a panel of dynamic young people, including key speaker Scott Millar, shared insights on engaging Generation Z in the workforce and the importance of integrating technology into workplace practices. Kianni Hughes – an Administration Officer currently completing a traineeship with the Queensland Department of Trade, Employment and Training (DTET) – was invited to speak on the panel and wrapped up what she learnt from the event.
‘Young people are the future, they are much wiser than we give credit for. ‘
Let this sink in. The event was aimed to break down stereotypes surrounding young workers and inspire businesses to become Youth Champions. Carmen Auer, the founder of GCYEB, announced the launch of the Youth Opportunity Compass and unveiled the new GCYEB website, designed to connect young talent with prospective employers.
Scott Millar, an accomplished entrepreneur who founded Bop Industries at just 14, emphasized the need for organizations to adapt to the changing landscape. Millar, who now speaks globally about the potential of Gen Z and upcoming Gen Alpha, encouraged attendees to challenge bias notions and invest in young talent.
As a panelist, I shared my personal journey and the transformative impact of the Young DESBT Network, which has provided a safe space for young individuals to step outside their comfort zones and share their challenges and strengths with likeminded people. I highlighted the challenges of the generational divide in the workplace, emphasising the importance of having an open mind to allow for easier communication and collaboration between generations.
Mentoring doesn’t have to be a one-way, top-down thing
Why not give reverse mentoring a try? It involves a senior and junior member each bringing forward something they would like to learn from one another. This collaboration can harness the power of diverse knowledge and perspectives.
The event concluded with a resounding message: young people are not just the future; they are a vital part of the present workforce, ready to drive innovation and change. Employers left inspired to rethink their hiring practices and embrace the wealth of knowledge that young people offer.
About the author
Kianni Hughes is an Administration Officer passionate about youth empowerment and creating positive change in the workforce. Currently completing a traineeship with the Department of Trade, Employment and Training (DTET), she has developed skills in public speaking, networking, and event coordination through her involvement with the Young DTET Network and the Gold Coast Youth Employment Body (GCYEB). Kianni is an advocate for positive improvement, the promotion of youth and collaboration, safe space creation and pathways for youth to thrive in the workplace. Her interest and dedication to these causes grew from her experience in the hospitality industry, where she worked predominantly with youth. Kianni transitioned into administration to start the journey in a supportive space where youth are appreciated for their contributions and encouraged to succeed. Kianni believes when opportunities are presented youth should grab hold of them with both hands and give it their all. Courage and willingness to take risks will be rewarded. In Kianni’s free time, she enjoys spending time with family, friends and her fur babies.