Since the launch of the project, the Kretinga Open Youth Centre has made significant strides in supporting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Here’s a look at the activities and accomplishments that have been taking place since August 2024:
Renovation and Equipment for Youth Employment
In August 2024, the Kretinga Open Youth Centre embarked on the renovation of its facilities and began equipping the centre to better support youth employment initiatives. This new environment will offer young people more resources and opportunities to develop their skills.
“Profession Shadowing” – Real-World Experience
Starting July 1, 2024, the centre introduced the “Profession Shadowing” program, where youth from disadvantaged families had the chance to shadow professionals across various industries, both in business and government sectors. Through this program, young people explored careers in cafes, as well as roles like waiter, librarian, and car mechanic.
This initiative provides valuable insight into the world of work, helping participants understand daily job routines and gain skills. Job shadowing helps them discover whether a profession suits their interests and strengths, while inspiring motivation to pursue their future career goals. By gaining hands-on experience, youth are better equipped to enter the workforce, giving them a head start in their professional journeys.
Mentorship Program – Guiding Youth Towards Their Future
The mentorship program began on July 1, 2024, with weekly sessions for groups of 10-11 young people. Over the course of two sessions, a total of 31 participants were introduced to a wide variety of professions such as doctor, teacher, policeman, architect, social worker, hairdresser, masseur, physiotherapist, psychologist, and veterinarian. These interactive sessions were designed to help young people discover the career paths that resonate with their personal interests and strengths.
In addition to profession presentations, the program hosted dynamic round-table discussions on critical topics, including:
- How to choose the right career
- Exploring the most popular professions in Lithuania
- Understanding labour market trends and the demand for specific skills
- The importance of selecting the right studies for a chosen profession
- Volunteering as a stepping stone to a career
The young participants also had the unique opportunity to engage with disabled individuals during four joint meetings, fostering inclusivity and broader perspectives on career possibilities.
By the end of the sessions, youth had gained a deeper understanding of the skills and qualifications required for various professions. They were empowered to make informed decisions about their career paths and equipped with the knowledge of what educational steps to take in order to pursue their goals. Many also recognized how volunteering can provide valuable experience that could eventually lead to paid work opportunities.
