Since 1998, the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI) has been running a youth internship program for urban professionals. This program has been operated in partnership with the Canadian Institute of Planners, the Centre for Russian and East European Studies (CREES) at the University of Toronto and the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada. It is funded by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) through the International Youth Internship Program (IYIP) of the Youth Action Division, Canadian Partnership Branch.

This program is designed to provide entry-level professional work experience to recent graduates of university degree programs related to urban management, local government, planning and other associated fields who are interested in pursuing their first international development work experience. It is open to youth 30 years of age or under, who are citizens of Canada or Canadian landed immigrants. In some cases, proficiency in a second language is required.

The program provides travel and living expenses for interns to work overseas for approximately six months through a placement in a CUI international project office or within one of our overseas partner organizations. It provides a unique opportunity for young urban professionals to work as part of a team alongside seasoned international development professionals within the structure of a long-term CIDA-funded project. During the course of the internship, interns are provided with professional learning experiences and upon return to Canada, career development assistance to help them find long-term employment. Where possible, CUI strives to hire its former interns to join our dynamic International Programs Office team.

The CUI’s youth internship program is designed to contribute to the implementation of the Government of Canada’s Innovation Strategy. Internships contribute to building excellence and skills among Canadian youth about to enter the knowledge economy, in the very specialized field of international development that is an important service export of our country. The internships build not only professional and social skills of Canadian youth, but also instill traits of flexibility and adaptability thereby strengthening the ability to work in foreign cultures. The increased knowledge gained by the interns related to international development, sustainable development and good governance at the local level will help to assist Canadian youth to succeed in the labour market upon their return to Canada.

To learn about CUI’s current youth internship opportunities for urban professionals, click here.