Kamloops, British Columbia, September 14, 2011—Local Aboriginal youth will have the opportunity to explore career and educational options thanks to support from the Government of Canada. Ms. Cathy McLeod, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Revenue and Member of Parliament for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.

“In today’s environment, it is more important than ever that young Canadians have the skills and information they need to participate and succeed in the job market,” said Ms. McLeod. “Our government is proud to promote activities that prepare Aboriginal youth to take advantage of the job opportunities available now and in the future.”

With assistance from the federal Youth Awareness program, the Shuswap Nation Tribal Council will organize the Aboriginal Trades Forum 2011 to provide local Aboriginal youth with information on careers in the trade and technology sectors and the opportunity to network with employers and educators. This year’s forum, scheduled for September 20-21, is expected to draw more than 175 youth. It will include information booths from various industries, Aboriginal groups and educational institutions, as well as speaker sessions delivered by exhibitors and experts.

The Shuswap Nation Tribal Council will receive $15,000 in federal Youth Awareness funding to help organize the Aboriginal Trades Forum 2011.