Preparing the next generation of transformational leaders at TMU’s Innovations in Democratic Leadership (formerly the Institute for Future Legislators)
Students participating in mock parliamentary proceedings at the Ottawa Senate chambers, June 2022.
“It’s an opportunity almost no one gets”, says Natasha Chawdhry, a Politics and Governance graduate student at York University, reflecting on her experience participating in Toronto Metropolitan University’s Innovations in Democratic Leadership.
Natasha was referencing the behind the scenes access and insights offered by tInnovations in Democratic Leadership, which explores what it takes to be an effective leader as an elected official - and beyond. The intensive bootcamp is designed to prepare those seeking to create change in our society and support those who want to better understand how our governments work.
The TMU Innovations in Democratic Leadership, organized by the Faculty of Arts, brought together a distinguished group of former elected officials, academics, advocates, and political journalists over three weekends in May and June 2022. Led by former Members of Parliament Peggy Nash and Celina Caesar-Chaveannes, Innovations in Democratic Leadership offers a unique and interactive learning environment, welcoming a diverse group of participants from various identity, educational and professional backgrounds.
“The diversity of the participants is so exciting as we look toward a future of better representation in the legislature,” noted Caesar-Chavannes. During an uncertain time of increasing political strife and diminishing civic culture, the Institute provides participants the encouragement and mentorship they need in becoming transformational leaders equipped to face the political realities of today and support progress.
Members of Parliament share unique, intersectional perspectives
“The MPs always made themselves very accessible, not just being generous with their time but giving realistic advice and being very truthful with us about their experiences”, said 2022 participant Vaishnavan Srikumaraguru.
Current and former elected officials generously shared their unique experiences and insights throughout training sessions and simulations, as well as their perspective on the role of an MP. With the support of veteran politicians, participants experienced the pressure of Question Period, bill drafting, party dynamics and a media scrum. Having the opportunity to simulate these experiences in front of former MPs who shared candidly on the challenges they faced in the house, left participants with a better understanding of the role of an MP: to serve their constituents.
Natasha recalled a powerful message from one of the former MPs: “If your entire goal is to end up on parliament hill and to be in Ottawa, you’re doing the job wrong”.
Participants remarked that the hands-on mentorship and genuine support they felt from former legislators and civil servants served as an invaluable lesson on leading with authenticity, inspiring wide interest in political engagement and potential futures in politics.
“They taught us how to be our authentic selves,” said Natasha, “and why the most important part of politics is presenting yourself in a way where people can relate to you.”
Supporting future engagement in politics
Students and political leaders at the Ottawa Senate, June 2022.
With the reality of increasing political polarization, Innovations in Democratic Leadership challenged participants’ thinking on the role of an MP, encouraging them to consider different opportunities and perspectives, and lead with open-mindedness.
“It's very rewarding to be involved in shaping the next generation of leaders and helping them navigate the greater challenges in politics today,” noted Nash, a former MP, co-lead of the 2022 Innovations in Democratic Leadership program and an active leader and advisor in the TMU community.
Through parliamentary simulations and activities, culminating in a trip to the Ottawa senate, participants were inspired to become actively engaged in politics and by the end of the Institute, felt a deep sense of personal growth.
“By the end of the week, we were all feeling the emotional weight of being in these positions, especially actually going to Ottawa and sitting in the senate Chambers. You walk into the House and feel a deeper appreciation for why people dedicate so much of themselves to this”, said Vaish.
Innovations in Democratic Leadership at TMU
The Faculty of Arts hosts Innovations in Democratic Leadership (formerly the Institute for Future Legislators) annually. This innovative leadership program for inspiring legislators and advocates was inspired by the highly successful program developed by the University of British Columbia’s Centre for the Study of Democratic Institutions, The Institute engages and trains thoughtful community members who are interested in exploring not only what today’s legislatures look like, but what they could be - particularly for members of communities that are marginalized and underrepresented in the world of party politics. Innovations in Democratic Leadership offers intensive, hands-on mentoring and training from current and former legislators, senior civil servants, high-profile journalists and effective advocates.
Registrations for the 2023 Institute will open in early 2023. If you are interested in participating in the program or would like to learn more, please contact Associate Dean Amy Peng or Operations Administrator Josel Gerardo.