Record-Breaking Job Fair Draws More Than 37,000 to CNE Amid High Youth Unemployment

As the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) gears up for its 2024 return to Toronto in just over two weeks, the anticipation was palpable at Exhibition Place on Wednesday. Thousands flocked to the Enercare Centre, hoping to secure a job at the annual summer extravaganza.

This year’s job fair saw an unprecedented 37,000 candidates register, with organizers estimating that between 3,500 and 5,000 would attend in person. The turnout marks the highest number of applicants in the CNE’s history, highlighting the intense competition for employment opportunities at the event, which runs from August 16 to September 2.

The scene at the Enercare Centre was a testament to the challenging job market in Ontario. A long queue of eager job seekers stretched through the venue as they waited patiently for their chance to apply. This situation reflects the broader struggle in the province, especially among young people, who make up the bulk of the CNE’s workforce. Annually, the CNE hires around 80 percent of its staff from the 14-29 age group, a demographic currently facing significant employment challenges.

Youth unemployment in Canada, particularly among those aged 15-24, has surged to 12.8 percent between April 2023 and April 2024, the highest rate since 2016. In Ontario, the situation is even more dire, with the unemployment rate for this age group soaring to 16.5 percent, well above the national average. This alarming figure underscores the difficulties faced by young Canadians in finding work, a reality that has persisted despite the gradual recovery from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The CNE job fair isn’t an isolated event. The sight of long lines for employment opportunities has become increasingly common in Toronto and its surrounding areas. Similar scenes have been observed at job fairs for various employers, including popular restaurant chains like Tim Hortons and McDonald’s, retail stores such as Fortinos and Bath & Body Works, and even at major facilities like Pearson Airport and an LCBO warehouse. This trend underscores the widespread demand for jobs, particularly among young people in a highly competitive market.

As the CNE prepares to open its doors, the enthusiasm and determination of the thousands of job seekers highlight a significant aspect of the current economic landscape. The record-breaking turnout at the job fair not only signals the popularity of the CNE but also serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing employment challenges faced by many in Ontario.