University of the Streets Café presents... A Changing Community: So I have a diploma, can I get a job?

Statistics show that English-speakers have a harder time landing employment than their French-speaking counterparts, this is true of both unilingual, and to a lesser degree, bilingual English-speakers. Is this issue language-related or does it reflect a changing work environment? What are the various factors at play in the underemployment of English-speakers? Is the ‘brain drain' still a reality in Montreal - highly-educated workers leaving the city to find better employment elsewhere? What about the ‘brain gain' of immigrants who have university degrees but still find it difficult to find a job?

In this conversation we will explore the topics of discrimination, networks, language proficiency, recognition of foreign credentials and the role of the education system in preparing graduates for life in Montreal.

Guest:

Giordano Rosa spent 35 years in education as a teacher ( History, Special Education) and administrator ( Director of Educational Services and Regional Director for Montreal School Boards. He retired in 2006 as Director General of the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board. He now helps coordinate and supports the Council on Employment and Education for the Greater Montreal Community Development Initiative and is an active grandfather to Megan and Emily.

Moderator:

Lise Palmer is the Youth Project Coordinator at the Quebec Community Groups Network and a board member of the 4 Korners Family Resource Centre. Having grown up in one of Greater Vancouver`s sprawling suburbs, she is interested in learning about and contributing to community, identity, and engagement. She loves good food, bad jokes, and wilderness walks.

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The University of the Streets Café creates gathering places for citizens to pursue lifelong learning and engagement through public conversations.  These collective discussions are an opportunity for people of diverse backgrounds and realities to meet, in a respectful environment – where all perspectives are welcome!