Conversations with Young People: Employment during COVID-19

Young people across the country are feeling the effects of COVID-19 in different ways—from school closures to cancelled activities to job losses—and they are finding creative solutions to staying connected and coping with the challenges brought on by this pandemic. America’s Promise Alliance through the YES Project is helping youth tell their stories about how COVID-19 is effecting their employment aspirations. Below browse video testimonials, opinion pieces, and social media from young people that captures their experience seeking employment as well as working during these challenging times.
 

COVID
Throughout 2020
Nationwide
COVID

Youth Videos

 

Forbes Series on Youth Employment
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Thursday, June 17, 2021

Allowing Employees To Be Their Authentic Selves: A Business Imperative
This is the first piece in a four-part series exploring how race and identity affect feelings of belonging at work.
hands

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Why You Should Address Workplace Classism—Now
This is the second piece in a four-part series exploring how race and identity affect feelings of belonging at work, and how employers can respond and support their diverse workforce.
PEOPLE

Tuesday, June 29, 2021

White “Professionalism” Limits Diverse Employees’ Belonging
This is the third piece in a four-part series exploring how race and identity affect feelings of belonging at work, and how employers can respond and support their diverse workforce.
hands

Thursday, July 29, 2021

Cultivating An Inclusive Workplace: Why Embracing Identity Matters
This is the fourth piece in a four-part series exploring how race and identity affect feelings of belonging at work, and how employers can respond and support their diverse workforce.
Youth Opinion Blogs
youth learning

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Disrupting Economic and Racial Inequity with Three Practical Steps
This month, The YES Project at America’s Promise Alliance is releasing a three-part blog series to illuminate the ways in which employers, youth-supporting programs, and intermediary organizations are
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Monday, October 19, 2020

Why Employers Should Connect to Opportunity Youth in 2021
This month, The YES Project at America’s Promise Alliance is releasing a three-part blog series to illuminate the ways in which employers, youth-supporting programs, and intermediary organizations are
Impacts of COVID-19 on Latinx Youth

Friday, October 9, 2020

Impacts of COVID-19 on Latinx Youth
Tens of thousands of Latinos have lost their jobs, and for those who remain employed, many are essential workers who often work without access to the necessary protective equipment and are at greater risk of being exposed to the Coronavirus. The children of Hispanic and Latinx parents are, therefore, at increased risk of being exposed as well.
Mariela

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

Struggle And Hope – A College Student Perspective During COVID-19
During these times, loyalty is being put to the test. It’s vital for companies to understand the importance of treating their employees with decency and respect. If they do so, their staff’s loyalty will never waver.
Sierra W.

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

5 Ways Employers Can Support Black Employees: A Young Leader’s Advice
I wish employers knew how tired people of color are of hiding their authentic selves. It starts from birth.
Mussab A

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

Not A Meritocracy: The U.S. and Youth Employment During COVID-19
As we look toward recovery from COVID-19 and what that means for employment, it’s important that we think intentionally about young people – particularly those who are marginalized and underrepresented. Decision-makers should utilize this moment to make our education and employment systems more equitable so that anyone who works hard can succeed.
kat

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

Working On The Frontlines: A Young Mom’s Reflection
My first job was at Starbucks. I was in transitional living at the time, which is like a second step if you’re in foster care or state custody. I was in a residential group home, and the goal was to eventually be transitioned into an apartment.
Marissa

Thursday, July 30, 2020

Internship Programs Are Filling A Crucial Gap During COVID-19
COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on the nation’s employment landscape, and young people are at particular risk.
K

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

Young Entrepreneur Perspective On Employment During COVID-19
A lot of us [college students] had internships lined up for the summer, and we fought really hard to find good internships in our fields. A lot of those opportunities were taken away due to COVID-19.
C1

Tuesday, June 16, 2020

The Impact of COVID-19 on Youth in Foster Care
COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on the nation’s employment landscape, and young people are at particular risk.
hands of a woman working on computer

Tuesday, June 16, 2020

Teleworking as an Intern During the Pandemic
My summer job, which I’d hoped would cover my housing, was cancelled, leaving me unemployed and practically homeless. Despite these hard times, I’m extremely grateful and appreciative for all the support that America’s Promise has offered me.
Franswa N.

Tuesday, September 1, 2020

Employee, Student, Caretaker, Mom: Juggling Many Roles During COVID-19
COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on the nation’s employment landscape, and young people are at particular risk.
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Tuesday, September 1, 2020

Resilience Deserves A Chance: Navigating Today’s Job Market As A New College Grad
COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on the nation’s employment landscape, and young people are at particular risk.
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