YESS Program | Youth Empowerment and Skills for Success

Are you between 15 and 30 and ready to kickstart your career?

The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) Program is here to help you get job‑ready training, hands‑on experience, and paid work placements.

Learn More Get Started

The Pijunnarniqaqvik Northern and Urban Work Readiness Program is funded by ESDC under the YESS program, and proudly delivered by
8231800 Canada Inc.
‍SDC

What’s the
YESS Program
All About?

The YESS program supports youth across Canada by providing hands-on training, paid work placements, and additional funding to help you succeed. Whether you’re facing barriers to employment or just need a boost to get started, YESS has your back.

Gain real-world experience in a paid work placement

Develop key skills through hands-on training

Access funding for childcare, transportation, and work gear

Earn at least $3/hour above the local minimum wage while you learn

Who Can Apply?

The YESS program is open to youth facing challenges such as:

Youth with disabilities

Black and other racialized youth

2SLGBTQI+ youth

Indigenous youth

Youth who didn’t finish high school

Youth living in low-income households

Youth experiencing homelessness or unstable housing

Youth in rural, remote, or fly-in communities

Depicts a cartoon group of four people posing for a photo in various work and school attire.

"Hosting Harley W. through the YESS program was an absolute pleasure. Her contributions had a significant impact in our office, and her dedication and talent truly stood out. Last month, we hosted students from the ETP program at Nunavut Arctic College, and Harley went above and beyond in every task she undertook.

One of her most remarkable achievements was producing and hosting the New Year's Day special episode of the radio program Uqallagvik. Her professionalism and creativity shone through, leaving a lasting impression on all who listened.

Harley’s positive energy, strong work ethic, and ability to adapt to various challenges make her an invaluable asset to any team. I will genuinely miss working with her and have no doubt she will excel in any future role she takes on."

Franco Buscemi

Carleton University (Ottawa)

"Having Gladys join us at Habitat for Humanity ReStore through the YESS program was an incredible experience. This was her first employment opportunity in Canada, coming from Rwanda, and she excelled in every aspect of her role. Gladys quickly learned the ropes of our store, seamlessly working with both inventory and customers.Her dedication was evident as she helped unload inventory and provided excellent customer service, always with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. As she moves forward to pursue Canadian courses for her future, we are confident that she will continue to achieve great things.Gladys was an absolute pleasure to have on our team, and we would gladly welcome her back as a volunteer anytime!"

"I just wanted to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation for the Skills Development Program and the invaluable experience I gained during my co-op.The program provided me with essential skills and practical knowledge that I know will be beneficial in my future endeavors. I'm truly grateful for the support, guidance, and opportunities that you and the team provided throughout this journey. My time in the co-op was both educational and rewarding, I appreciate all the insights and encouragement I received along the way.‍[...] as I move forward, I will always look back on this experience with gratitude. Thank you again for everything really appreciate all your efforts in making this program so impactful."

Program Locations

2024-25

Ottawa, Iqaluit, Montreal

2025-26

Sanikiluaq, Winnipeg, High Prairie, Kuujjuaq

2026-27

Quatuq, Montreal, Saaluit, Ottawa

2027-28

Montreal, Toronto, Inukjuaq

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Program Details

Step 1

Find a Cohort

Two Weeks of Hands-On Training

Step 2

Find a Cohort

Eight Weeks of Paid Work Placement

Step 3

Find a Cohort

Earn While You Learn!

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Additional Support to
Help You Succeed

Depicts a cartoon student holding a bag and waving.

👶
Childcare Support

$20/hour to help with childcare costs during training and work placement.

👕
Work Gear Allowance

Up to $650 for job-ready clothing or PPE like boots and gloves for work placement.

🚌
Transportation Assistance

Up to $125/month to cover travel expenses during training and work placement.

♿
Funding for Disability Aids

Support for assistive technology, mobility aids, or other needs.

Open Cohorts

Sanikiluaq

Special Cohort

June 20, 2025

-

July 5, 2025

Available Seats:

Learn More Learn More

Contact Us

Have questions about the YESS Program or need support during your training or work placement?
Our friendly team is ready to assist you!

Dakota Roos-Adams

Instructor

dakota@ilinniapaa.ca

+1 (819) 440-6743

Alexandra Aldrich

Summer 2025 YESS Program Coordinator

alexandra@ilinniapaa.ca

What’s the
YESS Program
All About?

Gain real-world experience in a paid work placement

Develop key skills through hands-on training

Access funding for childcare, transportation, and work gear

Earn at least $3/hour above the local minimum wage while you learn

Who Can Apply?

I always wanted to put my learning and education to actual use. Thanks to ilinniapaa as it really changed my life and gave me confidence. I'm sure it actually saved my life, to be honest. I've cried many a times being so thankful of you and your team(s).

Program Locations

2024-25

2025-26

2026-27

2027-28