Some 60 members participated in the Canada Employment and Immigration Union’s first National Young Workers Conference, Dec. 12-13, 2024 in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. 

“The energy and passion at the conference was a testament to the strength and commitment of our younger members,” said Brittany Anderson, co-chair of the CEIU National Young Workers’ Committee. “Together, we are building a movement that is not only responsive to current challenges, but is also preparing for the future. It is initiatives like this conference that empower the next generation of union leaders. We look forward to turning our ideas into action.” 

The conference kicked off with a keynote address from Sharon DeSousa, National President, Public Service Alliance of Canada. 

Participants then enjoyed a panel composed of members of the CEIU National Young Workers’ Committee.  

Two breakout workshops were held on advanced bargaining demands for young workers and a separate session on capacity-building for labour leaders. 

Rubina Boucher, CEIU National President spoke alongside Helen King, CEIU National Executive Vice-President, in a fireside chat about what drew them into the labour movement. 

Young workers shared their priorities and ideas for CEIU moving into the future.  

Participants also heard from two local St. John’s movement leaders: Mary Shortall, President of Canada’s NDP, and Carolann Harding, CEO of SmartIce, a social enterprise based in St. John’s. 

“Young workers are leaders in the labour movement today, and this inaugural conference is another step in the right direction for CEIU that we’re excited to build on,” said Boucher. 
 

The conference closed with a keynote by Jessica McCormick, President, Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour.