2026 Institute for Future Legislators  (Three-weekends in August)

Jarislowsky Chair in Trust & Political Leadership

Have you ever thought about running for public office?  Do you wish to deepen your understanding of the political system?

900 Fifth St

Are you thinking of running for elected office in a local, Indigenous, provincial or federal government? Or maybe you are simply curious about how our political systems work?CALL FOR APPLICATIONS2026 INSTITUTE FOR FUTURE LEGISLATORSThe Institute for Future Legislators (IFL) is a three-weekend program for individuals with political aspirations or those who wish to deepen their understanding of political system. The 2026 IFL will be held at Vancouver Island University (August 15-16 - Nanaimo), the University of British Columbia (August 22-23 - Vancouver), and Simon Fraser University (August 29-30 - Downtown Vancouver, Harbour Centre Campus).The IFL provides intensive and practical mentoring and training for anyone who seeks the experience and knowledge necessary to make a difference - whether at the local, provincial, or federal level.Participants will gain first-hand insights into the practical realities of legislative life that extend far beyond textbooks.The Institute will expose you to a repository of seasoned practitioners who will share their expertise and experience in effective democratic leadership, parliamentary democracy, and communications. Veteran political leaders share their knowledge and hard-won wisdom from years of service in public office. Academic experts provide instruction and guidance through the issues and institutions you need to know to be a legislator. Journalists and professional communicators will challenge and refine your media skills.Participants will engage in simulation-based approaches, and practitioner expertise to enhance experiential learning, critical thinking, and civic engagement.During this practical and intensive training, participants will be able to connect theory with practice, expand professional networks, and gain new skills. Educators will be able to strengthen their curriculum delivery through real-world legislative processes while advocates will be able to sharpen their tools to enhance their advocacy and lobbying activities. The IFL simply an exceptional professional enrichment opportunity for everyone, leaders in public life, and educations who teach political/social sciences, civics, public policy, or democratic institutions.The IFL welcomes adults (18+) from all backgrounds, including international applications, to apply. It also offers valuable professional development opportunities for individuals working in education, policy analysis, community advocacy, and related fields.Topics include: Legislative &amp; Legislative Life, Parliamentary Relationships, Political Ethics &amp; Judgement, Working in the House, Gender in Politics, Communications, Representation, Committee Research &amp; Investigation, Question Period, Constituency Services &amp; Constituency Communications.Our alumni have done to run for and hold municipal, and provincial office, serve as political staffers, work on electoral campaigns, and apply the skills and perspectives gained at IFL to advance their teaching, advocacy, and public services efforts.Want to know more?Check out <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWI1yrfqGzM" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWI1yrfqGzM" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">this teaser video</a>PROGRAM DATES: Vancouver Island University (August 15-16 - Nanaimo), the University of British Columbia (August 22-23 - Vancouver), and Simon Fraser University (August 29-30 - Downtown Vancouver, Harbour Centre Campus).PROGRAM FEE: $550Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, and seats are limited. You will receive an email detailing payment options.Application Deadline: On-going. You will be responsible for covering your transportations costs, and accommodation will be available at a discounted rate. We encourage you to explore professional development funding through your organization, and your are also welcome to undertake fundraising efforts, similar or those used by elected officials.If you have any questions, please contact: Lauren Touchant, Lauren.Touchant@viu.caREGISTER NOW! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc-QhlNkWavgBR9Fpob1UfCil8B7ksRmbYqNCIm0_dNJ5WNAA/viewform?usp=header

2026 Institute for Future Legislators (Three-weekends in August)

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2026 Institute for Future Legislators (Three-weekends in August)

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