First Work is a membership-based organization bringing together the best providers of youth programming and employment services, business leadership, academia, and government to develop and advance solutions for youth employment. First Work’s core youth initiatives are Aspire and our Youth Council.

Aspire is First Work’s career exploration initiative developed by youth, for youth.

Aspire is a career exploration initiative connecting young people facing barriers to employment with careers and industries they would otherwise never experience. In doing so, youth broaden their career aspirations by learning about the range of industry specific career opportunities available.

Aspire career exploration events incorporate youth leadership and skills development as well as peer and career mentorship, with an industry-informed sector-strategy. These events take place in three cities across Ontario each year supporting over 400 youth. Aspire career exploration events are designed in partnership with Employment Service organizations specializing in employment supports for youth, to ensure that further career navigation supports are available to participating youth. The combination of these wraparound elements affords young people career exposure and limitless prospects of exploration, network building, and reflection.