At Nestlé, our engagement with Youth through our Nestlé Needs YOUth program is a long-term commitment aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. This extends to the theme of this year's United Nations International Youth Day - Safe Spaces for Youth.
Youth need safe spaces where they can come together, engage in activities related to their diverse needs and interests, participate in decision making processes and freely express themselves. (http://www.un.org/en/events/youthday/)
For International Youth Day, our Nestlé Needs YOUth interns shared their thoughts on what Safe Spaces for Youth in the workplace means to them.
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"To me, Safe Spaces for Youth in Nestlé means having an invaluable, safe and well-balanced working experience." |
| "To me, Safe Spaces for Youth in Nestlé means having an invaluable, safe and well-balanced working experience. It allows me to grow as a professional by encouraging me to be more proactive and mindful, broaden my horizon by interacting with a diverse workforce whilst engaging in educational and fun activities."
– Zareen, Human Resources Intern |
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"Nestlé is a company that prides itself on safety and the general wellness of their employees" |
| "Nestlé is a company that prides itself on safety and the general wellness of their employees, as such, they ensure that all staff members are adequately trained in health and safety measures. The implemented security efforts are of a high standard and they ensure we have the right safety equipment available. On a more psychological note, the constant reminder that certain actions carried out by individuals may be deemed hazardous, reassures us that we're collectively striving for the maintenance of a safe work space."
- Marlon, Corporate Communications Intern |
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"The fact that Nestlé's property is a controlled and secure space, gives me peace of mind." |
| The fact that Nestlé's property is a controlled and secure space, gives me peace of mind."
- Vania, Marketing Intern |
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“Safe spaces for Youth for me means, encouraging and ensuring an open and inclusive platform" |
| “Safe spaces for Youth for me means, encouraging and ensuring an open and inclusive platform for all young individuals of diverse backgrounds regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation etc., to express themselves through their opinions and ideas without criticism, as a means towards inspiring and facilitating positive change within their society. Nestlé has given me the opportunity to further progress both professionally and personally by allowing me to share my thoughts and encourage ethical practices.”
– Nikita, Sales Intern |
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“... allows younger employees to feel not only more comfortable but also, more secure." |
| “Safe Spaces for Youth, to me, means a workplace environment that allows younger employees to feel not only more comfortable but also, more secure. The atmosphere in Nestlé is such that you are welcomed into a caring family that wants you to practice safe behaviours and be comfortable around your colleagues.”
- Robin, Corporate Communications Intern |
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"Nestlé Jamaica limited makes me feel safe in many ways." |
| "Nestlé Jamaica limited makes me feel safe in many ways. There are multiple areas that require extra safety, such as the Distribution Centre where we are required to wear our safety gear."
- Karla, Customer Service Intern |
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"Nestlé is big on safety and as such, they implement and ensure that we have a safe working space." |
| "Nestlé is big on safety and as such, they implement and ensure that we have a safe working space. For example, holding onto the handrails while going up and down the staircase and the requirement to wear safety equipment in designated areas such as the warehouse."
- Kamal, BICE Intern |
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"...refers to creating an environment that is conducive for learning..." |
| "In my view, ‘Safe Spaces for Youth’, refers to creating an environment that is conducive for learning and also comfortable for persons to showcase their creativity. At Nestlé, they allow individuals like myself to make independent decisions in the company. Not only do you feel heard but when you have a good suggestion for improvement, they allow you to take the mantle and lead the way. Nestlé is like a family that embraces you and supports your growth."
– Jael-Joy, Nesté Professional Intern |
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