BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
THE Athlete Career & Education Expo 2023 organized by the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sports will start today (Friday 30 June), the annual event is a Launchpad to equip athletes to identify future career opportunities in the country.
The Athlete Career & Education Expo (ACE Expo) will officially start from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sports (SINIS) High-Performance Center.
According to the SINIS People and Partnership Coordinator, Joyce Aburii, the two major sponsors for the ACE Expo are Pasifiki HR and the Government’s Ministry of Women, Youth, and Children Affairs (MWYCA).
Joyce said more than 20 interested stakeholders (institutions, organizations, and businesses) have confirmed their participation to take part in today’s one-day event.
“The event aims to have the different stakeholders talk about the opportunities within their organizations especially for athletes and young people.
“Amongst the 850+ athletes undergoing training at SINIS, where 86% are unemployed while 90% are financially insecure.
“Therefore, the aim is to give out opportunities for athletes. Likewise, it is important for Para-athletes who access SINIS programs,’’ SINIS People and Partnership Coordinator told RAW SPORTS.
Meanwhile, Joyce urged students and young people in Honiara who are keen to learn about the range of career-related opportunities such as volunteering, work experience, and internship positions, along with vacancies to come and be part of the Expo program.
The Expo was previously held last year, 2022 with the initial aim to equip athletes with the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to successfully prepare for and manage their dual careers along with how to transition into life after sport.
