Local young professionals want a voice in the province's future

NEWS RELEASE

STRIVE

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Strive Young Professionals Group joins Launch of Young Professionals Network of Ontario in Toronto

Stephanie Pagnucco from the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce STRIVE Young Professionals Group joined dozens of under-forties professionals from all corners of the province today to announce the launch of Young Professionals Network of Ontario (YPNO).

YPNO is a central hub to support young people to do business, network, advocate, have a voice at provincial and national tables, and build economic development opportunities.

"There has been a significant lack of opportunity for young professionals from Sault Ste. Marie and across the province to meet like-minded peers and have a voice on provincial issues. YPNO is a volunteer-based organization that will serve as an essential provincial network to connect, engage, inspire and advocate for professionals under 40 years. STRIVE Young Professionals Group is thrilled to join YPNO and represent Sault Ste. Marie’s young professionals at a provincial and national level," says Stephanie Pagnucco.

YPNO represents over 30 Young Professionals Networks with thousands of members dispersed across large cities like Toronto, as well as in small northern communities like Kenora.

Members also come from all sectors and walks of life including private business, public entities, trades, not-for profit agencies, and Aboriginal organizations.

As part of the organization's launch, 6 core pillars were unveiled:

• Community Engagement
• Social
• Business & Economy
• Environment
• Personal & Professional Development
• Provincial Connectivity

An advocacy campaign called; Meet Us, Hear Us was also announced to Parliament at Queen's Park.

"Our advocacy goal is to inform politicians and decision-makers about the hot issues concerning young people today. The current provincial deficit, lack of incentives to attract and retain young people, infrastructure planning and jobs are just a few of the top concerns,"  says Stephanie Pagnucco. "There are also important local issues such as youth retention and attraction, economic development and the creation of a diverse and progressive job market that we look forward to starting conversations with political or socio-economic influencers about. STRIVE Young Professionals Group's involvement in YPNO is a unique opportunity to engage future leaders on key issues."

To get involved visit www.ypnontario.com or www.ssmcoc.com/about-us/STRIVE

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