Policy Fellowship Program: Immigrant Women Leaders in Policy and Advocacy

Policy Fellowship Program (PFP)

Champion Diversity and Inclusive Policies For Immigrant Women in Canada!

 
 

ABOUT pOLICY FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM (PFP)

The Policy Fellowship Program (PFP) is an innovative pilot program designed to provide talented new immigrant women with the skills, knowledge, and network necessary to actively participate in policy formulation, advocacy, and community participation. Its primary objective is for immigrant women to take the lead in policy debates and foster the development of inclusive public policy in Canada that addresses the unique challenges immigrant, underrepresented, or underserved communities face.

The fellowship is a 6-month pilot program that focuses on public policy leadership and advocacy. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a comprehensive learning experience that focuses on policy analysis, advocacy strategies, and leadership development for gender-inclusive policy solutions.

Program Components

Policy Orientation and Development: Participants gain a foundational understanding of policy's impact on immigrant and underserved communities, focusing on key issues like education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and gender equality.

Policy Research and Analysis: Fellows develop evidence-based policy recommendations and gain confidence through research, seminars, and workshops on issues affecting underrepresented communities.

Policy Advocacy, Communication, and Leadership: Fellows acquire advocacy techniques, public speaking skills, and effective communication strategies to amplify their voices and advocate for underserved communities.

Community Engagement, Impact, and Empowerment: Participants actively engage with communities, using outreach, surveys, and focus groups to shape policy ideas and propose solutions.

Gender-Inclusive Policy Advocacy: Focusing on the intersections of gender and immigration, participants develop policy recommendations for new immigrant women, their families, and communities.

Networking and Mentorship: Fellows establish a robust professional network through interaction with policy influencers, mentors, and alumni.

 

WHy join this program

1. Immersive Learning: Develop a deep understanding of public policy in Canada.

2. Research Skills and Advocacy: Gain the skills to advocate for underrepresented communities and drive change.

3. Honorarium and Recognition: Receive a $500 honorarium and showcase your work on the NEW website.

4. Network and Mentorship: Build a strong professional network and benefit from experienced mentors.

5. Transformative Experience: Make a real impact in creating a more inclusive society for all Canadians.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Applicants must be new immigrant women who have arrived in Toronto, Canada, within the last 5 years. 

2. Applicants must hold a postgraduate degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in a relevant field (e.g., public policy, social sciences, law, economics, etc.). 

3. A keen interest in policy research, advocacy, and governance, as well as a commitment to enhancing the rights and opportunities of underrepresented communities via policy and advocacy. 

4. Excellent research, analytical, writing, and communication skills. 

5. An eagerness to collaborate, learn, and contribute to gender-inclusive policy discussions.

 

By enrolling in this program, you'll embark on a transformative journey. You'll learn how to drive gender-inclusive policies, leverage the power of networking and mentorship, and effectively advocate for underrepresented communities. As a PFP fellow, you'll receive a $500 honorarium and have the opportunity to showcase your work, including policy briefs, on the NEW website. This program empowers you to make a real impact, fostering a more inclusive and welcoming society for all Canadians.

Program DURATION AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT TRAINING

This 6-month pilot program provides participants with a comprehensive learning experience focused on policy analysis, advocacy, and community participation. The following modules will be covered during the educational part of the program:

program principles

  1. We prioritize addressing the specific needs, experiences, and challenges of participants from diverse cultural backgrounds. We actively promote cross-cultural exchange and learning among fellows to foster better understanding and collaboration.

  2. We promote participatory research and policy development that fosters trust among participants and includes the perspectives and experiences of individuals from immigrant, underrepresented, or underserved communities.

  3. Our approach focuses on fostering a community of influential policy leaders who are committed to creating a lasting and positive impact.

  4. We employ Intersectional Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression frameworks in our approach to our work.

PROGRAM MODE OF DELIVERY

Starting February 1st 2024, fellows will meet once a month for a 3-hour session via Zoom. These sessions will feature guest speakers who will explore various topics, such as policy analysis, government responses, advocacy strategies, ethics, and community engagement. Additionally, biweekly sessions will be offered to provide support and facilitation for fellows to develop their ideas, policy briefs, and op-eds.

APPLICATION PROCESS

A total of 15 fellows will be selected for the pilot program. To apply, please ensure you submit the following documents by the deadline:

  • A personal statement highlighting your enthusiasm, skill sets, and alignment with the program's goals.

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV).

  • Two references.

If you are interested in applying, please email your application to Dr. Norin Taj at norin@newcomerwomen.org

Application Deadline: January 5, 2024

The Policy Fellowship Program empowers immigrant women to drive policy change and create an inclusive society for all Canadians. The PFP is committed to empowering new immigrant women to become catalysts for change in policy and advocacy. By providing them with the necessary tools to advocate for gender-inclusive policies and lead community engagement efforts, the program aims to create a more inclusive and welcoming society for all Canadians.

This program was made possible through generous funding from Enbridge’s Fueling Futures Funding Program.