The Albany Area Chamber Foundation's Propel+ program took center stage last Thursday as students and adults gathered for an impactful session aimed at preparing Albany's female youth for the work force. More than 100 enthusiastic female students from the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy actively participated in Propel+ – a year-long talent development initiative delivered in the school by the FoundaSon,  the 501(c) affiliate of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce – that connects, nurtures and empowers Albany’s youth.

The program supports the Foundation’s Albany-Dougherty Talent Strategy 2.0 that aims to build a modern, adaptive and competitive work force.

Through surveys and feedback from previous Propel+ programs, students requested workshops on how to build financial wealth and how to dress for the workplace. At the heart of this week’s event was Evelyn Ross from Renasant Bank and Sheri Barlow from Englewood Health Care and Zac’s Consignment Closet, who addressed the students’ requests.

Ross spoke on the many ways to build financial wealth, and engaged students with interactive activities that shed light on the difference between assets and liabilities, determining net worth, and various investment methods. Barlow discussed the art of “Dressing for Success” for today's workforce. Barlow presented real-life scenarios that challenged the students to curate outfits for specific work-related occasions, while emphasizing the importance of budget-conscious choices.

The students had the unique opportunity to select from a myriad of clothing items brought as examples, which added a fun and hands-on element to the activity. At the event, the Foundation made the Propel+ Career Closet, which now resides at 4C, available available to the students so they may select professional wear items for their use.

“Repeatedly, we're inspired by the active participation of students in Propel+ and of our business partner mentors,” said Bárbara Rivera Holmes, president and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber and the Albany Area Chamber Foundation.  “Propel+ stands out as a resource to deliver key employability skills, foster relationships between students and employers, and provide connections for mentorship. The future of Albany looks promising with these young women poised and prepared to enter the workforce.”

The power of collaboration and community involvement shone through the program, during which hands weren't just extended but futures were shaped. Propel+ is a testament to the commitment of the business community, actively shaping a brighter and more prosperous future for Albany.

Investing in Albany's talent pipeline development through programs such as Propel+ is a strategic move by Albany Area Chamber Foundation and the business community to foster an aligned and sustainable regional work force ready to meet employer needs.