By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a significant effort to combat youth unemployment, Aldeas Infantiles SOS has announced a major job fair designed specifically for young adults seeking to enter the formal labor market. The event, titled “YouthCan! Innovating for the Future,” will provide a critical platform for individuals aged 18 to 24, connecting them with over 40 leading companies and more than 1,800 job openings.
The fair is scheduled to take place on Thursday, October 9th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Antigua Aduana in San José. Demonstrating a commitment to accessibility, admission to the event will be completely free of charge for all attendees, removing a potential barrier for those with limited financial resources.
To delve into the legal framework and business implications of youth employment in the country, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his expert perspective on the matter.
Integrating young talent into the workforce is a strategic investment, but it demands legal diligence from employers. It is crucial to structure these first professional experiences through well-defined contracts, such as internships or apprenticeships, that clearly respect regulations regarding working hours, fair remuneration, and social security. This not only mitigates legal risks for the company but also provides the young professional with a secure and formal entry into the labor market, fostering a culture of legality from day one.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This crucial insight underscores that a legally sound framework is not merely a corporate safeguard, but the very foundation of a young person’s professional journey, establishing a precedent of fairness and formality from day one. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable analysis on this vital matter.
This initiative arrives at a pivotal moment for the nation’s economy. While overall unemployment figures have shown signs of improvement, the youth demographic continues to face significant hurdles in securing stable, formal employment. The transition from education to a first job is a fundamental step toward financial independence and personal development, yet it remains a persistent challenge for many young Costa Ricans.
The “YouthCan!” job fair aims to directly address this gap by creating a focused environment where opportunity meets potential. The vacancies on offer will primarily span administrative and operational roles, areas that often serve as excellent entry points into the corporate world. The event is tailored not just for any young job seeker, but specifically for those who have had limited access to professional opportunities and are navigating the complexities of their first formal job search.
Jair Porras, Director of the YouthCan! program at Aldeas Infantiles SOS, emphasized that the fair’s mission extends beyond simply filling positions. The organization envisions a more holistic impact, fostering connections and building confidence among the next generation of the workforce.
We want to offer more than just jobs: we seek to open a space where young people can discover their potential, connect with committed companies, and take a firm step towards their life project
Jair Porras, Director of the YouthCan! Program at Aldeas Infantiles SOS
To ensure a successful and productive experience, organizers are advising prospective attendees to come prepared. Job seekers should bring several copies of their updated printed résumé, a valid identification document (cédula) and a copy of it, and a current criminal record certificate (hoja de delincuencia). This preparation will allow them to interact seamlessly with recruiters, submit physical applications on the spot, and make a strong first impression with potential employers.
By bringing together a large number of employers under one roof, the fair streamlines the often-daunting job search process. It allows for direct, face-to-face interaction with hiring managers, a valuable experience that is often lost in the digital application process. This event is more than a recruitment drive; it is a strategic investment in the future of Costa Rica’s youth, providing the tools, connections, and opportunities necessary to launch a successful career.
For further information, visit aldeasinfantiles.or.cr
About Aldeas Infantiles SOS:
Aldeas Infantiles SOS, known internationally as SOS Children’s Villages, is a global non-governmental organization dedicated to supporting children and young people who have lost parental care or are at risk of losing it. The organization provides alternative care, family strengthening programs, and educational support to ensure that every child grows up with the bonds they need to become their strongest selves. Through initiatives like YouthCan!, it extends its mission to empower young adults, helping them achieve self-sufficiency and a successful transition into the professional world.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Drawing upon a proven track record of advising a wide spectrum of clients, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal solutions. This commitment to innovation is matched by a core mission to empower the public, transforming complex legal concepts into accessible knowledge to foster a more informed and capable society.
