13 March 2026, Markham, Canada - York Region, York Regional Police and York University hosted the Gateways to Pathways: Talent and Industry Forum at York University’s Markham Campus, in collaboration with UNITAR and CIFAL York. The event brought together job seekers, employers, industry leaders and community partners for a full day of learning, dialogue and collaboration aimed at strengthening inclusive economic development and workforce readiness across the region.
More than 130 job seekers and 68 partners from business and community agencies participated in the forum, reflecting growing momentum behind a shared commitment to connect talent with opportunity and foster equitable employment practices in York Region.
Across many sectors including advanced manufacturing, public services, healthcare and STEM, employers continue to face recruitment and retention challenges while many capable individuals encounter barriers to meaningful employment. This includes newcomers, youth, internationally trained professionals and other underrepresented groups.
During the opening session, York University President and Vice Chancellor Lisa Phillips highlighted that “The forum aims to create a space for transparent conversations about hiring practices, workforce needs and inclusive growth. The programme combined practical learning opportunities with dialogue between employers and job seekers”
Ms. Michelle Gyles-McDonnough, Executive Director of UNITAR emphasized the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in addressing labour market challenges. “Employers need skilled talent, while many capable individuals face barriers to meaningful employment,” she noted. “Bridging this gap requires partnership, coordination and practical pathways that connect education, industry and communities.”
She further highlighted the importance of local initiatives that contribute to global learning. “As the first CIFAL Centre in Canada, CIFAL York demonstrates how local action can generate scalable impact. When leadership, education, industry demand and community safety align, the result is stronger economies, reduced skills gaps and more resilient communities.”
Key components of the forum included:
Capacity-Building Workshop & Panel Dialogue:
The CIFAL York and the York Regional Police Labour Trafficking Unit delivered a joint session that addressed employment law fundamentals, career advancement strategies for job seekers, and employer responsibilities in preventing labour trafficking and ensuring safe and ethical workplaces.
Workforce leaders and employers examined the evolving labour market landscape, discussed current skills demands and shared best practices for inclusive recruitment and retention.
Interactive Networking & Booth Exhibition:
Structured networking and Q&A sessions connected job seekers with employers and community organizations across York Region, helping participants better understand workforce needs and available opportunities.
Job seekers had the opportunity to engage directly with representatives from a range of employers and community organizations, including Apotex, Loblaws, Seneca Polytechnic, STEM Minds, YMCA GTA and others, gathering information and making connections across key sectors.
The forum reflects the growing collaboration between local institutions and international partners to strengthen inclusive labour markets. Through continued partnerships and knowledge exchange, stakeholders aim to ensure that employment pathways remain visible, accessible and fair for all members of the community.