NATIONAL CAREER ADVISOR NETWORK (NCAN)
The National Career Advisor Network (NCAN) is an initiative led by the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and the Third Sector (MLSP) to strengthen career guidance and support services across Barbados.
NCAN brings together trained professionals, organizations, and stakeholders to provide accessible, high-quality career planning support to individuals at every stage of life.
Why Career Planning Matters
Career guidance and planning are essential for:
- Improving employment outcomes and job satisfaction
- Supporting lifelong learning and career transitions
- Enhancing productivity and workforce participation
- Helping individuals make informed decisions about their future
A structured approach to career planning benefits not only individuals, but also employers and the national economy.
Vision
To ensure that all persons in Barbados have access to fulfilling careers and improved life outcomes.
Mission
To make career planning support accessible to everyone in Barbados.
Goals
NCAN aims to:
- Expand access to career planning support in schools and communities
- Strengthen national career counselling services
- Promote lifelong learning and career development awareness
Key Objectives
- Provide a national community of practice for career advisors and other relevant professionals.
- Increase public awareness and understandings on career planning and its value.
- Deliver at least four community outreach activities annually.
WHAT IS NCAN?
A Community of Practice
NCAN functions as a professional network and community of practice for career advisors.
It provides a platform where practitioners can:
- Share knowledge and best practices
- Develop and maintain professional standards
- Access professional development opportunities
- Collaborate on initiatives and outreach programmes
- Stay informed on labour market trends and opportunities
Public Awareness
NCAN coordinates a national campaign:
- Promote the importance of career planning and goal setting
- Increase awareness of available career support services
- Encourage citizens to take an active role in their career development
This includes:
- Social media outreach
- Radio and TV promotions
- Print and digital advertising
Community Outreach
Career support services will be delivered directly to communities across Barbados, including:
- Career planning workshops
- Access to career assessment tools
- Resume writing and job search assistance
- One-on-one consultations with career advisors
MEMBERSHIP
Who Can Join?
Individuals may join NCAN if they have:
- Training or certification in career planning
- Relevant experience in career guidance or related activities
- Active involvement in career advisory support
Member Requirements
Members are expected to:
- Adhere to a Code of Ethics
- Participate in network activities and meetings
- Support the goals and mission of NCAN
- Contribute to outreach and awareness initiatives
Key Stakeholders
NCAN is supported by collaboration among:
- Ministry of Labour, Social Security and the Third Sector
- Career counsellors and advisors
- Third Sector organizations and professional associations
WHO BENEFITS?
NCAN is designed to serve a wide range of individuals:
Job Seekers
- Access to tools and support for career planning
Students and School Leavers
- Guidance on career options and educational pathways
Parents
- Resources to support career discussions with children
Unemployed or Underemployed Individuals
- Opportunities to retrain, upskill, and improve employability
Career Advisors
- Professional development and networking opportunities
Tools & Resources
NCAN supports the use of modern career planning tools such as:
- Online career assessments
- Skills and interest matching systems
- Labour market information resources
These tools help individuals identify interests, strengths, and work values, explore careers, and make informed decisions.
WHY NCAN MATTERS
Despite progress in training career advisors, there is still a gap in access to career services across Barbados.
NCAN addresses this by:
- Expanding national capacity for career guidance
- Creating a coordinated, sustainable support system
- Strengthening partnerships across sectors
Get Involved
Whether you are a trained advisor or someone seeking guidance, NCAN provides a platform to connect, learn, and grow.
Contact the Ministry at ncan@labour.gov.bb for more information on:
- Membership
- Training opportunities
- Upcoming outreach events.
Professionals seeking to join NCAN, please click on button below.
