March 27, 2012
The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development:
Partnership Providing Youth with Valuable International Trade Experience
Mr. Speaker, the contributions of youth in business, as well as community and regional development, are expanding. This bodes well for the province as industry sectors and new business prospects continue to grow.
Recognizing how harnessing their enthusiasm benefits the province today and tomorrow, the Provincial Government is actioning initiatives and forming partnerships that link youth with innovative learning experiences and valuable connections.
Our support for organizations such as Global Vision reflects that commitment. It is a relationship that provides youth with important leadership skills that will propel them in their lives and careers.
As a national organization Global Vision, through its Junior Team Canada program, brings together youth for interactive sessions that connect them with business, industry and government to discuss issues and career opportunities.
Last month, I spoke and networked with about 100 participants from throughout this province and Atlantic Canada at one of their sessions. It was an event filled with energy and excitement.
Youth who have attended past sessions have joined government officials and businesses on trade development missions to international markets. On these missions, youth delegates are active participants and engaged in meetings with ministers, senior government officials, multi-national corporations, and diplomatic officials. They are taking a leading role in marketing our province and our country on the international stage.
I would also like to acknowledge Tyler Power, a participant in last year’s trade mission to Indonesia, who has been recently named as one of seven young Canadians to take part in the G20’s Y20 summit in Mexico in May.
Mr. Speaker, I believe that by supporting youth from this province to travel to international markets and access innovative learning experiences we are investing in the long-term growth of our province.
Through experiences of this nature they are acquiring best practices and exposure to international trade that can advance the export readiness and potential of Newfoundland and Labrador’s business community.
Thank you.
2012 03 27 1:45 p.m.