Black History Month job fair offers one-on-one time with employers

A job fair in honour of Black History Month was held over the weekend, giving job seekers a chance to speak to recruiters without a long wait.

Job fairs can be crowded and you might wait long in the queue – but one in Chalmers on Saturday offered job seekers ample time to chat with their prospective employers.

The Afro-Caribbean Association of Manitoba held its 24th-annual employment fair on Saturday at the Holy Eucharist Parish Centre in Chalmers, in honour of Black History Month.

The fair encouraged job seekers to bring their resumes and engage with employers face to face.

Job fair coordinator Laurretta Boudreau said the comparatively smaller scale of the event is exactly the reason why they do it.

“It’s not overcrowded with people and the vendors can have a more one-on-one – talk with the public as they come through, answer any questions and take as long as they want,” she said.

Government employers such as the Correctional Services Canada, Manitoba Hydro and the city of Winnipeg were seen at the fair, along with private entities.

Boudreau said the fair “could definitely lead to a job in the future.

“That’s why we do stress to bring your resume and give it to the vendors – and they can use it and see if you are a good for for them or not.”

She hoped attendees to take positive job searching experience.

“Especially for newcomers that are new in Winnipeg – I want them to have a great experience in looking for a job.”