Youth Voice Roadshows: listening to the future workforce
This summer, the Cardiff Capital Region Skills Partnership embarked on a series of Youth Voice Roadshows, engaging with over 90 young people across four colleges – Merthyr College, Cardiff and Vale College, Coleg y Cymoedd, and Bridgend College.
These sessions provided a valuable opportunity to hear directly from students about their career ambitions, the challenges they face, and the support they need to thrive in the world of work.
The feedback, gathered through interactive Mentimeter surveys, paints a vivid picture of a generation that is ambitious, thoughtful, and eager to contribute.
From aspiring electricians and chefs to future creatives, entrepreneurs, and public servants, young people across the region are clear about what they want and what they need.
Ambitions and aspirations
Students expressed a wide range of career interests, with strong representation in the creative industries, construction and trades, hospitality and catering, health and social care, and freelance or entrepreneurial paths.
The most popular sectors included creative industries, construction, digital and tech, hospitality and tourism, and finance and business.
Skills that matter
When asked about the skills most important to their future, young people consistently highlighted communication, confidence, teamwork, problem-solving, resilience, and creativity.
These responses reflect a strong emphasis on interpersonal and practical capabilities – skills that are essential in today’s evolving job market.
Barriers and challenges
Despite their enthusiasm, many students identified significant barriers to progression. The most common included lack of experience, financial constraints, limited job opportunities, transport costs, and a lack of access to training or networking opportunities.
These challenges underline the importance of targeted support and inclusive pathways into employment.
Support and learning preferences
Young people expressed a clear preference for learning through experience.
Work placements, internships, and hands-on workshops were seen as the most valuable forms of preparation. Mentoring, career coaching, and access to industry professionals were also frequently mentioned as key enablers of success.
Influences and expectations
Salary, job satisfaction, location, flexibility, and company values were the top factors influencing career decisions. While many students feel “somewhat confident” about the skills and qualifications they need, only around half feel fully “work ready.” This highlights the need for earlier, more tailored guidance and support.
Digital skills and apprenticeships
Views on digital skills were mixed. While many see them as essential, others – particularly those pursuing creative or manual careers – felt they were less critical.
Apprenticeships remain a popular route, but students called for better pay, greater visibility, and more flexible, respectful opportunities.
What young people want
Above all, young people want to be treated with respect, offered fair opportunities, and supported in building their confidence and skills. They are asking for clear pathways into work, inclusive environments, and a system that recognises their potential—regardless of background or circumstance.
Cardiff Capital Region Skills Partnership
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