Royal Bank of Canada : RBC commits to help Canadian youth confidently navigate their path to success

RBC to invite young Canadians to help shape future programs

TORONTO, June 28, 2016 - RBC today announced a new commitment aimed at helping Canadian youth reach their potential as they transition to post-secondary education or employment opportunities. The commitment to Canadian youth comes as the nation gets ready to celebrate Canada Day and begins its preparations to mark Canada's 150th birthday in 2017.

'Canada's future prosperity depends on our ability to harness the energy and optimism of young people, but too many are feeling uncertain and anxious about their future, and are worried about their job prospects,' said Dave McKay, President and CEO, RBC. 'With this commitment to youth, we are demonstrating our dedication to helping young people reach their full potential and to foster a new generation equipped to succeed in the changing workplace of the future. As we prepare for our nation's 150th birthday next year, we look forward to working with other businesses, government and the social sector to ensure future generations have the tools and the confidence they need to both thrive and prosper,' said Mr. McKay.

RBC's commitment to Canadian youth will focus on supporting young people to ensure future generations have the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to thrive and prosper in a rapidly-changing world. The commitment will create a meaningful impact through partnerships with government, education, business, and community and youth groups; internships, experiential and work-integrated learning experiences; donations; and programs to engage RBC's employees.

Over the next few months, RBC will be engaging directly with young Canadians through conversations on social media, focus groups, and workshops to help create inclusive, best-in-class youth programs. This follows detailed consultation with youth groups, government experts, community agencies, educators, academics and parents over the last year.

'We are inviting young Canadians to shape the programs that will help define RBC and our work in the community for the next decade,' said Mr. McKay.

According to recent RBC research, young people are worried about their job prospects, with 69% being very or extremely concerned about not getting a job when they graduate. Furthermore, RBC's 2nd Youth Optimism Study, conducted by Ipsos Reid Public Affairs found that only 67% of females and 66% of males ages 22 to 25 agree they are confident that they have the knowledge and skills to find the jobs they want.

By the end of this year, RBC will have delivered on its RBC Kids Pledge, which improves the well-being of kids and youth, successfully honouring its $100 million commitment two years ahead of schedule.

Additional details about the new RBC commitment to youth will be announced in the Fall 2016.

For more information, please contact:
André Roberts, RBC Communications, 416-313-7436