SPEAKERS BUREAU

The Speakers Bureau is a volunteer speakers’ service available to elementary and secondary schools in Niagara. Volunteers representing various jobs and careers go into the classroom to share their experiences and expertise with students. Community volunteers are a wonderful addition to the classroom and provide a first-hand opportunity for young people to learn about the career possibilities in their own backyard. By volunteering you can positively influence Niagara’s youth and invest in the development of our future labour force.

FREQUENCY

Volunteering for our speakers’ service is easy! Some volunteers give just one hour of time each month; others devote many hours. It’s up you! We’ll find an opportunity that fits your schedule!  

DURATION

Depending on the individual teacher’s needs, presentations are about one hour in length (one whole period) or can be longer (two classes; two periods). In some instances, we’ll ask you to be a role model at one our career exploration events

THE BENEFITS to YOU:

• Renew your workforce -- creates an interest in your sector
• Build a strong economy – help secure a future skilled labour force to build a strong economy
• Provides opportunities for mentorship
• Motivate youth to reach for their goals
• Be a Good Corporate Citizen – Build a profile as an employer who cares about the sustainability and strength of your community.

“My experience at Westlane was fantastic. The class was attentive and eager to hear about entrepreneurship and my experiences. Thank you for facilitating these types of events – real people and real life experiences are great for students.”
Angela Davidson – SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE CENTRE 

GUEST SPEAKER Katherine Fisher from the Niagara Parks Commission

"Katherine Fisher was very engaging and knowledgeable in her presentation on Customer Service. She captured their attention, added great real life stories to emphasize key concepts and ideas and encouraged classroom participation. In speaking with students after the presentation, they not only enjoyed the presentation but felt that it would really help them in their part-time jobs and future careers. It is wonderful that organizations like the Niagara Parks allow staff to guest speak at schools because it reaffirms the concepts taught by the teachers and adds the real life aspects that help students understand the relevance of learning these skills."

"Karen Chcoski – SPECIALIST HIGH SKILLS MAJOR BUSINESS SECTOR

E.L. CROSSLEY SECONDARY SCHOOL

"The Speakers Bureau is a much-needed resource for all educators and students.”

Maria Rocca Martin – SAINT PAUL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL