NextStep
YWCA NextStep is a dynamic 12-week employment program designed for youth aged 16–30 who are ready to gain experience through volunteerism, entry-level employment, or a return to education.
The program begins with intake and assessment, then six weeks of interactive group workshops focused on building essential life and employability skills, followed by four weeks of personalized one-to-one support to help participants secure employment, explore volunteer opportunities or pursue further education.
We offer in-person cohorts in Prince George and Port Coquitlam, as well as virtual cohorts for participants across BC.
- Six weeks of in-class workshops
- Four weeks of one-to-one support
- Hands-on experience through participation in a community project
- Financial incentives for completion of milestones
- Connections and referrals to wraparound supports based on individual participant needs
- Certifications such as WHMIS, SuperHost, FoodSafe Level 1, Emergency First Aid and Serving It Right
- Personalized action plans and individualized support to achieve them
- Between the ages of 16 and 30 years old
- Unemployed or underemployed
- Legally eligible to work in Canada
- Experiencing barriers to employment or further education
- Willing and able to participate in six weeks of group-based workshops, three days per week
Preference will be given to those supported by BC Employment Assistance.
Next start dates
In-person cohorts in Prince George and Port Coquitlam: September 2, 2025
Virtual cohort open to youth across BC: November 10, 2025
We accept registrations on an ongoing basis.
Interested in joining us?
Pre-register through the link below and a staff member will be in touch with the next steps.
For more information or if you have any accessibility needs, please contact us.
* This program is open to non-binary and gender diverse people. We warmly welcome members of the BIPOC, 2SLGBTQIA+ and Disabled communities.
| YWCA NextStep | Port Coquitlam #305 - 2540 Shaughnessy St, Port Coquitlam nextsteppoco@ywcavan.org | 236 985 4551 Office hours: Monday to Friday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
YWCA NextStep | Prince George |
