THE EDITOR, Sir:

Sitting in a youth conference recently during the question-and-comment segment, one young man voiced, "Weh mi fi get job experience from?" because everywhere he applied asked about job experience.

Asking about experience is mandatory in every interview, because one requires competent individuals to fulfil roles in one's organisation.

Now the question is, how can one garner such experience and competence? The answer is simple: volunteerism. Many organisations offer persons the opportunity to serve as volunteers. Hence, it is our duty to make ourselves available to assist and partake of the benefits thereof. Benefits, such as networking, increase one's level of competence and self-fulfilment.

Therefore, I encourage us not to take for granted the value of volunteerism, but to let it become a way of life. Let us be willing to give of our time, skills and abilities. Seek out an organisation that interests you and sign up for a day, week or a few hours.

One may speak of the drawbacks such as transportation cost and so on. A quick solution is to choose somewhere close to home. Volunteerism is a vital part of growth for everyone, and I believe it should be fully endorsed.

TRACE-ANN GOODEN

spot_park@yahoo.com

Church Pen, Old Harbour