http://www.sheffieldtelegraph.co.uk/news/business/developing_business_talent_1_3312346

Sheffield’s business community is forging closer links in an effort to develop and nurture the business talent of the future.

Junior Chamber International Sheffield (JCI) and Sheffield Chamber of Commerce have strengthened ties and will work together to support the city’s future business leaders.

Sheffield Chamber President Yuri Matischen said: “Developing a strong partnership with JCI and collaborating with the younger business community is an extremely positive step. It’s vital we encourage and recognise the talent, skills and breadth of experience we have in our city. Equally important is strengthening our internal business networks and forging links between established business and fresh minds, this will without doubt benefit all members.”

Kate Senter, Internal Communications Manager at Sheffield based Irwin Mitchell and President of JCI Sheffield, said: “This is a forward thinking step and a fantastic opportunity for Sheffield businesses across the board. As far as I am aware no other city in the UK has a Chamber of Commerce and Junior Chamber working together in this way.

“Thanks to the two chambers working closely together we can provide a greater platform for young professionals and open up opportunities in the wider business community.”

JCI specialises in the personal development of young business people and professionals in their 20’s and 30’s by providing networking opportunities, training and social events. By working closer together, members of JCI will get an earlier insight into the role of the Chamber of Commerce and how they can engage with and benefit from the organisation.

Equally, members of Sheffield Chamber of Commerce will find out how JCI can provide development opportunities for the future leaders within their business. This will be achieved through collaborative events and a formal presence from each organisation on the council teams.

JCI Sheffield has members from across the business community including legal, financial, engineering, also creative and digital sectors and aims to provide young professionals with opportunities to create positive change in their lives.

lSheffield Chamber of Commerce has organised a series of practical events throughout May.

The Chamber has a busy events calendar which opens with a Communication Challenges programme for members on May 5 at Albion House, coinciding with national Deaf Awareness Week (May 2-8).

The session will begin with a deaf businessperson speaking on their experience of working within business, the challenges faced and how they have set-up their own company.

Communication Challenges will also give delegates the opportunity to learn some basic sign language from the Chamber’s resident British Sign Language expert Kate Stephenson.

The second annual Meet the Chamber event will be held on May 11, giving new members the opportunity to network together, meet the Sheffield Chamber team and its service providers. Chamber members are also invited to get together to discuss new business while exploring Sheffield as part of the City Exploration Walk on May 17.

The popular ‘Netwalking’ activity will return for members in partnership with Sheffield Primary Care Trust and Change4Life, and will coincide with Walk to Work week (May 9-14) and Walk Sheffield week (May 14-22).

To book a place or for more information contact the Chamber events team on 0114 201 8930 / 8899, email events@scci.org.uk or visit www.scci.org.uk and www.getwalking.org