#HireMeHalifax shows employers the value of experiential learning

On March 26, close to 200 emerging professionals, employers, and industry leaders came together to network and watch the 10 finalists pitch themselves live. These young job-seekers had just 45 seconds to take the stage and give their best elevator pitch, in the hopes of winning one of three cash prizes and getting the attention of employers offering job and experiential learning opportunities.

In February, students and recent graduates across the province submitted their best video pitch for the first stage of #HireMeHalifax. Through two rounds of judging, 10 young professionals were selected to deliver their pitches live.

In the past, #HireMeHalifax was open to recent and soon-to-be graduates seeking full-time employment. This year, the contest was expanded to include students. We received a number of submissions from students seeking experiential learning opportunities.

Finalist Isaac Bezanson, a student-athlete at St. Francis Xavier University is currently looking for a co-op placement at an accounting firm. Isaac spoke of his experience at #HireMeHalifax. “I would definitely recommend fellow students to submit a pitch next year, because you never know what could come out of it. The event was an awesome opportunity – I learned so much and made some great connections.”

NSCC accounting student Melissa Loder took home the top prize, winning over the judges with her genuine, passionate pitch. Saint Mary’s University students Kanaar Bell and Aayoosh Sapra placed second and third, respectively. NSCC student Jared Piercey was the winner of the first ever People’s Choice Award, decided by an audience vote.

At the Halifax Partnership, we connect local businesses with post-secondary students looking for work experience through the Experiential Learning Initiative. Students bring new energy, enthusiasm and innovative ideas to business, and are eager to gain experience and contribute. Hiring a student is a low-risk way for employers to assess upcoming local talent. #HireMeHalifax was a great opportunity to showcase the value of experiential learning for business while educating employers on programs available to support hiring a student.

Watch Hire me Halifax Pitches

Interested in seeing all of our finalist's 30-second pitches? View the #HireMeHalifax Pitch Competition YouTube playlist.

• Watch the Pitches