JobIRL has 180,000 active members on its eponymous platform, as well as field programs deployed in disadvantaged areas, such as urban political districts and rural zones, to help young people aged 12 to 30 discover promising career paths, find internships, and apprenticeship contracts to better pursue their studies.
“A collective and individual support that removes many barriers to integration, and above all, instills confidence and optimism,” explains Christelle Meslé-Génin. “This greatly contributes to those little boosts that truly change destinies.”
Navigating training pathways has indeed become increasingly complex. The options have exploded, and specialized schools have multiplied.
"There are many private training programs, some of which are very good, but many are of very poor quality. And it is the young people from disadvantaged backgrounds who end up there. Because they don’t have the information, unlike the children of upper management who do,” clarifies Christelle Meslé-Génin.
Moreover, professions are evolving rapidly. This trend is accelerating with the advent of artificial intelligence. How can one know which fields have a future and will be hiring tomorrow?
This is where JobIRL steps in, to inform, guide, assist, and connect young people with professionals to exchange ideas and concretely discover various careers.
"A professional engaged in our community can be a career ambassador, responding to requests from young people who interact with them directly. They can also become mentors to guide them on topics like career orientation, Parcoursup, or in their search for internships or apprenticeships,” explains Christelle Meslé-Génin.
Programs that change everything. In the middle and high schools where JobIRL operates, 80% of students discover careers they were previously unaware of, and 93% feel more motivated to work on their career orientation after these encounters.
Regarding mentoring, 97% of young people believe the program has been effective, whether in helping them with their orientation or in finding an internship or apprenticeship; 70% of these opportunities are secured thanks to the commitment of partner companies.
“Young people tell us that, thanks to JobIRL, they have found contracts that allow them to continue their studies and integrate into companies where they will have sustainable careers in their fields. So, we are truly changing the destinies of young people through these types of programs,” concludes Christelle Meslé-Génin.
