Do you wonder what the future holds for the world? Are you concerned about things like climate change, poverty, public health and education, housing and government policy? Do you believe that global and local issues are connected? Do you feel that our economic system is focused on profit at the expense of people and the planet? Do you believe it is possible for us, as communities, to do things differently at home and abroad, to eradicate poverty, to deal with conflict peacefully, to rise to the climate challenge fairly, and to ensure everyone has access to good public health and education services?
If you answered yes to any of the questions above, this program may be for you.
Next Up was created by a community of people who wanted to help emerging leaders (that’s you!) develop new and better skills, smarts and ideas. The program is intense. Over 4 months, we’ll dive into a number of topics and disciplines, combining theory, practice, deep thinking, and hard skills. We’ll look at some of the most pressing Canadian policy issues both foreign and domestic. We will consider where “progressive” thinking is on these issues and how to solve them. We’ll look at how change is made in society. And we’ll meet some of the most innovative change-makers in Ontario — from the non-profit, labour, business and public sectors — who are working for a better world.
Program information
Who should apply?
You are:
- Aged 18–32
- Passionate about changing the way the world works, and committed to being active at the centre of social change
- Certain that there are better ways for us to take care of each other and the planet
- Willing to take a risk, join a team, and learn more about yourself
- Someone with leadership qualities (though leadership experience is not necessarily required) Next Up Ottawa Application Info 2012-2013
What do we mean by leadership?
Everyone has a different take on the word “leadership.” For us, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re a big talker, or that you’re the popular person, or the funniest person, or the person who speaks in public a lot. You may have those qualities — or you may not. Leadership does mean that you think about the world around you and take action to make it a better place.
Who are “we” and why did we create this program?
This is the program's sixth year since it was started in BC, its fourth year in Alberta, and its third year in Saskatchewan. The people organizing it come from a wide range of backgrounds: public policy, community activism, labour, the non-profit sector, and research. We are all involved in social and environmental justice work. We’ve created this program because we believe that a better world is not just possible, but an imperative. We believe that good solutions to the biggest issues are out there, and can be realized. We have different approaches to teaching and learning, but we all believe that a new generation of progressive leaders is needed and should be supported. Next Up is a partnership between the Global Youth Education Network Society, the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, the Columbia Institute and a number of environmental, labour and civil society organizations.
The Global Youth Education Network Society (genius) is a non-profit organization that works with young people on projects connected to democracy, social and environmental justice and social change leadership. The projects of genius include Get Your Vote On and Next Up.
The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives is an independent, non-partisan research institute focused on social, environmental and economic justice. It is one of Canada’s leading progressive voices in public policy debates.
The Broadbent Institute is a progressive organization that offers new ideas and tools for those seeking a more equal Canada.
The Columbia Institute has a goal to foster inclusive, sustainable communities.
What will I learn?
You’ll learn more about yourself and your values, and about how to turn ideas into action. You’ll be challenged with new ways of thinking, provocative speakers, inspiring mentors and fascinating guests. You’ll discuss solutions to problems like poverty and climate change. Next Up Ottawa Application Info 2012-2013
You’ll learn skills in areas like media relations, issue framing, project development, fundraising and facilitation. You will meet people working in different areas of public policy and social change. And you’ll connect and work with people in Ontario doing innovative social and environmental change work. Our goal is to equip you with the skills and tools needed to become an effective leader in movements for social and environmental change. The sessions will be delivered by the Next Up Coordinator and by guest presenters from the non-profit, labour, public and business sectors.
What level of commitment is required from me, and when?
By joining Next Up you’re committing yourself to an extraordinarily rigorous and exciting program. The program runs from February 2, 2013 to May 27, 2013 and during that time you will:
- Attend one evening session per week (Monday evenings 6-10pm and the occasional Tuesday)
- Attend one day-long weekend session per month (Generally Saturdays from 10-4pm)
- Connect with various community leaders during mutually convenient times
- Explore and take action on an issue or topic of social change that you’re passionate about
Can I apply if I’m in school or working?
Yes. The program was designed with an understanding that the people in it would have a life: work, school, family and many combinations thereof. That’s why the sessions take place in the evenings and on weekends. Next Up also requires a strong time commitment and you should be thinking about how you will make time for the program should you be accepted.
How much does it cost?
It's free! The cost of the program for participants will be covered entirely by the program (if you live outside Ottawa we may be able to help with travel costs, so please apply). You have to commit time, energy, curiosity and a desire to change the world. Next Up Ottawa Application Info 2012-2013
What important dates do I need to know?
- Friday, January 11 (11:00 pm, Eastern Time) Final Application Deadline.
- Wednesday, January 16 Short-listed applicants will be called for interviews by this date.
- Saturday, January 19 Short-listed applicants must be available to take part in a group interview process and a one-on-one interview.
- Tuesday, January 22 Successful applicants will be notified by this date that they have been selected to participate in Next Up.
- Saturday, February 2 10:00am-4:00pm orientation for successful applicants.
- Monday February 4 Orientation continues 6:00-10:00pm
What is the language of learning for the program?
The majority of sessions will take place in English with some sessions taking place in French.
Where does the funding come from?
Support for Next Up Ottawa has been provided by:
The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, the Broadbent Institute and the Columbia Institute.
I have a different question, who can I ask?
Contact Kevin Millsip, Next Up Director at [email protected] or check us out online.
That’s it. Happy applicating!
Sincerely,
The entire Next Up Ottawa team
