As demonstrated in this photo, today's youth use computers and technology to learn. This was one of many valuable topics discussed by Max Valiquette, founder and president of Youthography, when he visited Durham College on Thursday, June 7.
On Thursday, June 7, Durham College faculty and staff were treated to an impressive and informative keynote address by Max Valiquette, founder and president of Youthography, Canada's leading youth marketing consultancy, and one of the most sought-after youth and pop culture speakers in the country.
Valiquette explained the challenges faced by today's youth and compared them to previous generations. For example, today's youth live with their parents longer than ever before, put in a very full day at school - comparable to a full-time 40-hour work week - and have different methods of learning, thanks to the creation of the Internet. He feels it is important to understand and be aware of the current generation and uses his presentation to assist teachers and professors with relating to their students.
"It was an eye-opener," said Kelly Bailey, manager of Employee Development and Wellness for Durham College. "His speech really made you stop and realize that you can't assume each generation is the same as the last."
Bailey added that she received tons of e-mails from staff stating how fantastic the information was and that they feel they benefited from hearing Valiquette speak.
Youthography is Canada's leading youth-focused communications agency, managing market research and marketing programs for a variety of clients and organizations, including Fortune 500 companies, government organizations and not-for-profit organizations.
Along with being featured in countless national media outlets, Valiquette has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Ottawa, is a former Central Canadian Debating Champion and has performed at Second City as a sketch comedian. He was recently named one of Canada's most influential marketers by Marketing Magazine.
Following the presentation, Human Resources invited staff to drop by for some fun in the sun at a barbecue from noon to 2 p.m. in the South Village courtyard. Attendees were told to bring their appetites and sunglasses and enjoy lunch and some beautiful weather.