The OLIP interns appreciated the opportunity to meet with Jill Zelmanovits, an accomplished OLIP alumna whose career spans law, non-profit leadership, and global humanitarian work. During our meeting, we were grateful to discuss Jill’s impressive career trajectory, where she offered valuable insights on navigating strategic, legal, and governance-focused roles.   Following OLIP, Jill began her professional journey by pursuing law, practicing at Fasken Martineau and later at L

As our final meeting of the Ottawa Study Tour, the OLIP interns had the honour of meeting with MP Yves-François Blanchet, Leader of the Bloc Québécois.    Formerly a teacher and columnist for Le Nouvelliste,  MP Blanchet rose to a political career in 2008, most recently securing leadership in 2025 for the third-largest party in Parliament. Our conversation offered a nuanced glimpse into Québec’s politics on a federal platform. We discussed the balance between environmental an

During our Study Tour in Ottawa, a notably unique experience the interns enjoyed was visiting the U.K. High Commission. We were honoured to have the opportunity to explore the new establishment on Sussex Drive, comprising a state-of-the-art building within the Earnscliffe National Historic Site.    Following a brief tour of the building, the interns had the opportunity to meet with Deputy High Commissioner, David Prodger; and Diplomats, Giorgia Racis, Cameron Ballester, and D

During our Ottawa Study Tour, the interns had the wonderful opportunity to tour the Senate of Canada, where we explored the historical foundations, function, and ceremonial traditions of one of Canada’s most significant democratic institutions.  As we entered the beautifully restored building, once Ottawa’s iconic train station, we were greeted by a Senate guide who introduced us to the chamber’s unique architectural blend of heritage and modern design. We learned about the s

This November, the OLIP interns had the privilege of meeting with Peter Rekai, an alumnus from the very first OLIP cohort of 1976–1977, and has since enjoyed an extensive and interesting career defined by service to newcomers and care for his community.  Peter holds a BA from Trinity College, and after completing OLIP, graduated from Queen’s Law School in 1980 before articling at a large downtown Toronto law firm. His early career reunited him with Queen’s Park, where he spen

During our study tour in Ottawa, the interns were delighted to meet with Gabriela Loredana Alexandru, Head of Political Affairs Section, Delegation of the European Union to Canada.  With the capital city horizon behind us, the EU hosted us at a roundtable of member states. It was an opportunity to discuss Canada-EU relations at their heart, as well as raise our own interests as they related to international relations, trade policy, and other political areas. Over the course o

During our Ottawa Study Tour, the interns enjoyed a tour of the Supreme Court of Canada, where we learned more about the history, role, and inner workings of Canada’s highest court.  As we stepped into the grand building overlooking the Ottawa River, we were welcomed by a Supreme Court guide, who walked us through the institution’s rich history. Although the Court was established in 1875, it did not become the final court of appeal until 1949, meaning Canadians could still ap

As we stepped into November, the interns had the distinct privilege of meeting The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario! Premier Ford welcomed us into his office and generously took the time to speak with us about his path into politics, the major issues facing Ontario today, and the many questions we brought with us. Our discussion touched on the province’s economic outlook, the principles that guide his work as Premier, and his priorities for the Ontario Progressive Con

In early October, the OLIP interns had the distinct honour of meeting the Right Honourable David Peterson, the 20th Premier of Ontario who served from 1985 to 1990. During our conversation, Mr. Peterson walked us through his career journey, sharing thoughtful insights about the experiences that shaped his path to becoming Premier. His story began in sales, followed by the founding of a wholesale electronics business, his election to London City Council, and eventually his ent