Celebrating 75 Years: Drake International Invests in Future Workforce of Canada

Drake International Celebrates 75 Years with a Focus on Canada's Youth

On June 1, 2026, Drake International proudly launched its inaugural Drake Force for Good Day, marking a significant milestone as it celebrates 75 years of operation. Founded in Winnipeg in 1951, Drake has evolved into a global talent management and workforce advisory leader, maintaining a presence in over 14 countries and a partner network extending to 128 more.

This year's celebration emphasizes the company's commitment to strengthening the workforce of tomorrow, particularly in regions facing significant opportunity gaps. Central to this initiative are two pivotal investments: the acquisition of The Whiteboard Collective, a social enterprise aimed at preparing high-achieving youth from challenging backgrounds for the labor market, and a renewed partnership with the University of Manitoba, including a substantial investment of $1 million to support students in their educational journey.

Karen Meredith, CEO of Drake International, highlighted the urgency of addressing youth unemployment, which has surged to decade-high levels in Canada. She stated, "The future of work will not be won by organizations that simply automate faster, but by those that develop people better. Force for Good Day is our declaration of that conviction, backed by real investment."

Meeting the Challenge

As traditional pathways to entry-level jobs shrink due to the rise of automation and changing job market dynamics, Drake recognizes the need for structural responses rather than mere rhetoric. With The Whiteboard Collective now part of the Drake family, the goal is to support young individuals who often lack access to employment opportunities, thus helping bridge the gap in their employability confidence.

Studies indicate that only 34% of high-needs youth feel assured about their employability at the outset of structured programs. However, with intervention and support, this figure dramatically increases to 68% within six weeks. By integrating the expertise of The Whiteboard Collective, Drake aims to create accessible pathways into their global client network, presenting new opportunities for motivated and capable candidates.

A Personal Connection to Education

Drake's connection to the University of Manitoba is both personal and strategic. Founder Bill Pollock began his journey through a University scholarship, which allowed him opportunities he otherwise wouldn't have had. To honor this legacy, Drake is linking education and employment directly through initiatives like the Drake Center at the Asper School of Business, where joint pathways will be developed alongside The Whiteboard Collective.

Meredith reiterated this sentiment by saying, "This is not philanthropy alongside our business. It is our business model. The talent we support today through The Whiteboard Collective is the workforce our clients need."

Commitment Beyond One Day

Drake Force for Good Day symbolizes an enduring commitment that transcends annual observance. It is precisely this alignment of profit and purpose that Drake intends to promote as a sustainable operating model, ensuring that their success continuously fuels their social mission. As Meredith remarked, "Drake Force for Good Day is the moment we make that conviction permanent and public. This is how a 75-year-old company declares its intent for the next 75 years."

The announcement comes after Drake's successful donation campaign in 2025, where over $3 million was contributed to provide flood recovery bags to communities affected in Queensland, Australia, demonstrating the firm's ongoing dedication to nurturing and assisting the communities it operates within.

Looking Forward

Drake's journey through its 75 years has witnessed substantial changes in the workforce landscape, but their core mission remains aligned with empowering talent and addressing community needs. As we move forward, Drake International's initiatives serve as tangible actions towards mitigating youth unemployment and enhancing educational opportunities, establishing a lasting impact not only within Canada but also globally.

For more information about Drake International and their initiatives, visit Drake International.