Future Ready
An interactive career readiness program for young women and gender-diverse youth
Register TodayAbout the program
Future Ready is an interactive career readiness program for young women and gender-diverse youth (aged 17-25) who want to feel more confident and prepared as they navigate the early stages of career. Over three months, participants build and practice real-world skills required for today’s rapidly evolving world of work.
Through interactive sessions, networking with inspiring leaders, and connections with supportive peers, youth gain practical tools and lasting relationships that help open doors to opportunity. Designed with and for youth, Future Ready creates a welcoming, inclusive space where participants can explore their goals, strengthen their voice, and grow their confidence.
the stats & facts
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Only about a third of youth in Canada feel confident and prepared for the future of work, and early career transitions remain particularly challenging for young women.
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For newcomer and Indigenous youth, barriers to meaningful employment are magnified by systemic racism, cultural bias, and a lack of mentors who share similar identities or lived experiences (Future Skills Centre).
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Many young women, especially those from equity-deserving communities, are steered toward lower-paid sectors or roles with limited advancement, compounding long-term inequities (Labour Market Information Council).
Sources: https://www.rbc.com/en/future-launch/about/ https://fsc-ccf.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Focus-Areas-Brief_Future-Skills-Centre_2024.pdf https://lmic-cimt.ca/publications-all/lmi-insight-report-no-39/
Program Overview & Impact
What is Future Ready?
Future Ready was created in direct response to what we consistently hear from youth in our community: the transition from high school and post-secondary into the early stages of a career can feel overwhelming, uncertain, and isolating. Many young people are seeking more guidance, practical skills, and supportive relationships as they navigate big life and work transitions. Future Ready equips youth with tools to build resilience, confidence, and clarity, while helping them develop the skills needed to pursue meaningful career opportunities. This program creates space for connection, mentorship, and growth so young people can move forward feeling prepared and empowered, all within a community that believes in them.
If you are a young leader ready to invest in yourself, connect with inspiring mentors, and take the next step toward a future you believe in, Future Ready is for you.
Program Participants Will Learn to:
Clarify their values to guide career decisions, goals, and next steps
Navigate change and transitions with practical tools to manage uncertainty and adapt to new opportunities
Communicate confidently through active listening, feedback, and self-advocacy in early professional settings
Build resilience by managing stress, overcoming self-doubt, and strengthening a growth mindset
Advocate for themselves and build networks through effective networking, mentorship, and early career negotiation skills
2026 Dates
upcoming session
Sessions will take place on Zoom over seven sessions every second Tuesday from 6-7:30pm PST.
March 10: Opening Session and Values
March 24: Managing Change
April 7: Effective Communication
April 21: Emotional Resilience
May 5: Building Confidence
May 19: Effective Networking
June 2: Advocating for Yourself and Closing Circle
program structure
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
Future Ready offers engaging workshops that feature expert facilitation, group discussions, and interactive activities. Participants will practice real-life career skills in a supportive environment while learning from experienced mentors and guest speakers.
NETWORKING WITH INDUSTRY LEADERS
Future Ready connects participants with inspiring mentors from a variety of fields who share real-world insights on navigating challenges, taking opportunities, and building meaningful careers. Through mentorship sessions, participants practice networking skills, grow their professional confidence, and begin building a supportive network that helps them see what’s possible for their own futures.
BUILDING CONNECTIONS
Participants will become part of a welcoming community of like-minded peers who are committed to personal growth and mutual support. These meaningful connections offer encouragement, shared learning, and a sense of belonging, reminding participants that they are not alone as they navigate their career journeys.
Opportunities and Resources
Minerva continues to provide opportunities and benefits beyond the program, including:
- Youth Leadership Award
- Youth Action Council
Registration and Support
REGISTRATION
We are looking for youth who are excited to build confidence, grow their skills, and be part of a supportive community of peers as they navigate their next steps.
Indigenous youth are encouraged to apply.
While the terms “women” and “girls” are used for this program, we invite attendees and mentors who identify as women, girls, trans, genderqueer, non-binary, Two-Spirit, and gender-questioning.
TUITION
Thanks to the support of our generous donors and sponsors who believe in youth leadership, there is no cost to attend this program.
Become a Partner, Sponsor, or Donor
We are committed to increasing no-cost leadership learning opportunities for youth in BC. If you would like to help expand our impact by becoming a partner, donor, or sponsor, please get in touch.
testimonials
