Your Big Year® On Location
Bridging Skills from Academia to Career
Your Big Year brings a unique workforce development program for young people focused on cultural understanding, confidence building, and future-ready / employability skills.
Our workshop is based on a culmination of over 15 years of experience working with young people globally and working with leading technology companies to design products for the future of work and future of education. We engaged young people globally in the process of developing this workshop.
Ultimately, the program creates a long-term connection between industry leaders and youth, broadens young people’s horizons to new opportunities, provides pathways to obtain them, and trains young people in the skills needed to achieve their goals.
Curriculum
The day is a mixture of personal and professional development exercises and activities grounded in finding purpose through the UN Sustainable Development Goals. In addition, to the core elements below, we have weaved in industry specific training or activities.
Introduction activity
Your community and the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Personal brand and presenting yourself
Building your network
Finding opportunities: industry panel / industry speakers
Global connections: discussions with peers worldwide
Action plan: Bringing it all together
Technology & Play
Elicit Engagement
We use a combination of technology, play, and interactive activities to create an inviting and welcoming place for students to engage. The multidimensional component of the program provides space for youth to learn in different ways.
In addition, the combination allows the youth voice to emerge, reflecting one of the guiding principles of the UN’s Convention on the Rights of the Child - the right to be heard (Art. 12).
Student practice their new skills with professionals
Whether it’s through industry panels and speakers, networking sessions, industry training workshops, site-visits or invites to conferences and events, our program weaves in professionals. Our goals are to connect industry leaders with diverse emerging talent in their community, as well as provide a space for youth to practice their newly acquired skills.
Outcomes for Participants
Improved Employability: The skills and experiences gained through the program, such as communication, adaptability, and teamwork, make participants more attractive to future employers.
Stronger Community Connections: By talking with their global peers, students develop a sense of belonging that strengthens their commitment to impact in their own communities.
Expanded Networking Opportunities: Students have the chance to connect with peers, mentors, and professionals from around the world, building a diverse and supportive network.
Creative Thinking: By engaging with peers on global issues and diverse perspectives, students develop skills that enhance their academic performance and ability to think creatively.
Social Skills Development: Participating in group activities and discussions helps students improve their social skills, including communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution.
Increased Cultural Awareness: Students gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, promoting global awareness and appreciation.
Become a Partner
We keep our programs free for youth to participate to ensure equity in access. Therefore, we depend on excellent partners to support the program. The companies who work with us not only benefit from making a social impact but also see a measurable ROI for their business.
