KFC Champions Youth Voices with New Advisory Board
Posted by Emily on 21st Nov 2024
KFC has taken a significant step in its commitment to youth employment by launching a Youth Advisory Board in partnership with Youth Beyond Borders, a youth-focused organisation. This initiative aims to integrate the perspectives of younger generations into the company’s strategic decision-making, highlighting the growing importance of authentic inclusion in the workplace.
The board’s primary objective is to reassess and refine KFC’s recruitment processes, particularly the format and language of job applications, to create a more accessible entry point for young job seekers. By fostering a culture that values fresh perspectives, KFC hopes to enhance career opportunities for young people, particularly in the hospitality sector.
The launch of the Youth Advisory Board coincides with KFC’s rollout of a CV and career mentoring pilot across its UK restaurants. The initiative aligns with the Youth Guarantee, a government-backed programme supporting individuals aged 18 to 21, demonstrating KFC’s broader commitment to equipping young people with the tools and support needed to enter and thrive in the workforce.
Recent research conducted by KFC UK & Ireland sheds light on the challenges faced by young workers. Over three years, the company surveyed more than 9,000 young people and 2,000 employers, revealing that 93% of young respondents had experienced age-related discrimination in the workplace. Additionally, three out of five young people reported feeling excluded from the job market due to perceived barriers.
Lamin Tarawally, Youth Beyond Borders youth lead and chair of KFC’s Youth Advisory Board, emphasised the significance of the initiative:
“Young people today bring immense potential and fresh perspectives, yet age discrimination remains a significant barrier to employment. The Youth Advisory Board isn’t just about giving young people a seat at the table; it’s about valuing their unique insights and experiences to drive impactful change within KFC. Through this initiative, we aim to foster a workplace culture that welcomes young voices and actively seeks to learn from them.”
This sentiment was echoed by Meghan Farren, UK General Manager at KFC, who highlighted the critical role young people play in the business:
“As one of the largest youth employers in the country, with 65% of our workforce under the age of 25, I see the positive impact that young people make on my business every day. If the government and businesses are serious about unlocking economic growth, then recognising young people’s potential and helping them get into and stay in work will be critical.”