Institute for Future Legislators

The Institute for Future Legislators (IFL) was run by the Centre for the Study of Democratic Institutions (CSDI) from 2013-2022 and is currently on hiatus.

Have you ever thought about running for public office? Do you wonder what it would be like to serve as a legislator?

The Institute for Future Legislators (IFL) is a program for those who have political aspirations and are looking to know more about what it takes to be an effective legislator. The Institute provides intensive hands-on mentoring and training for anyone who seeks the experience and knowledge necessary to make a difference—whether at the local, provincial, or federal level.

About

The IFL welcomes applications from a diverse and cross-partisan group of people, including all ages and backgrounds. The only prerequisite is legislative aspirations and a readiness to learn from highly experienced practitioners. Anyone can apply—you do not need to be a student enrolled at a Canadian university to participate, and we also accept international applications.

The institute will expose you to a repository of seasoned practitioners who will share their insights, experience and expertise on effective leadership, parliamentary democracy, communications, and how to engage with people and decision-makers. 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 simulations and role playing – both in discrete exercises and as part of a program-long simulation which culminates in a weekend legislative session. Each participant will represent a constituency, be assigned to roles in political parties and committees and work through draft legislation on salient issues. Reflective dialogue sessions provide the opportunity for participants to step back from the simulations and reflect on their experiences, good and bad practices, and imagine the kind of practitioner they want to be.

Past practitioners have included: George Abbott, Dawn Black, Larry Campbell, Ujjal Dosanjh, Mike Harcourt, Joy MacPhail, Preston Manning, Anne McLellan, Lisa Raitt, Carole Taylor and many others.

Topics include:

• Legislatures & Legislative Life
• Parliamentary Relationships
• Political Ethics & Judgement
• Working in the House
• Gender in Politics
• Communications
• Representation
• Committee Research & Investigation
• Question Period preparation
• Constituency Service & Constituency Communications

Our alumni have gone on to run for and hold municipal and provincial office, work as political staffers, work on electoral campaigns, and apply the skills and perspectives they learned at IFL to pursue their advocacy work.

Glossary – Parliamentary Government in Canada

Testimonials

“Attending the Institute for Future Legislators was one of the best educational experiences I have had in my life and truly a proud accomplishment. Not only did I meet amazing people along the way, but I was able to gain new knowledge and learn about my personal strengths. I received hands-on training on how to be a member of caucus and a Member of Parliament. The program not only inspired me to run for office but prepared me for my next election for Squamish Nation Chief and Council. From this experience, I learned how be an accountable, transparent leader and politician. I am grateful to have been recognized as one of the most inspiring leaders and future legislators. Thank you UBC for granting me this amazing opportunity! Huy chexw!” — Crystal Lewis, IFL 2018 Participant.