Teen Workforce Program gives local youth the chance to develop work experience, improve life skills | Article

CAMP ZAMA, Japan – Teenagers from the military community are invited to apply for a 12-week work experience program coordinated through the youth center here.

The Teen Workforce Fair will be held at the center on November 7 and 8 from 3 to 5:30 p.m.

The program is aimed at teenagers between the ages of 16 and 18 who are currently covered by the Status of Forces Agreement or SOFA.

Adolescent Center staff will assist those who apply for the positions, which will pay $15 an hour for the duration of the 12-week program.

Youth Center director Fathima Ismail said there were many reasons for teenagers to consider applying.

The program “equips teenagers with the resilience and life skills they need to thrive in both their personal and professional lives,” she said.

She added that the experience gained from working in a structured and supervised environment will give teenagers lifelong skills such as communication and organization, and the program is focused on developing those essential skills for first-time employees.

Ismail said duties will include typical youth center activities such as greeting customers, filing paperwork, preparing labels, operating copy machines and organizing office supplies.

Teens employed in the program could also work for youth sports and fitness events, gaining experience preparing recreation areas for sports or other games and events, or serving as a scorer or game monitor.

Ismail said teenagers living abroad traditionally find it difficult to find work opportunities off base because of obstacles such as the language barrier or insufficient documents or qualifications.

Ultimately, she said, the teen center program offers a great chance to build professional work experience and even save some money.

Teens interested in applying should stop by the youth center to pick up an employment application packet and schedule an interview appointment. The packet will need to be completed and brought on the day of the appointment, along with a resume, a copy of sponsorship orders, two reference checks, a social security card and a passport with a SOFA stamp.