2nd MPP Placements: Megan & MPP Chandra Pasma

For my opposition placement, I had the pleasure of working in the office of MPP Chandra Pasma. As the member representing Ottawa West-Nepean, MPP Pasma is also the NDP Education Critic and Deputy Opposition House Leader. Elected in 2022, MPP Pasma has a background in policy research, including working for the federal NDP and as a policy researcher for the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). One of the most rewarding aspects of working in MPP Pasma's office was observing her exceptional ability to analyze complex policy issues with clarity and insight.  

During this placement, I had the opportunity to write member statements and speeches, staff MPP Pasma at events, coordinate Private Member Bills, navigate relationships with stakeholders, and so much more. I was grateful that my office trusted me to try my hand at a wide array of tasks and skills.  While I got the opportunity to touch on all aspects of our office’s work, it was especially fascinating to learn more about the education portfolio. I learned about education’s countless policy topics in my placement, including mental health, labour, language rights, and more.  

I also had an amazing opportunity to visit the riding in May. This was a jam-packed few days of many stakeholder meetings, a press conference, and getting to try some very tasty local spots! MPP Pasma provided me with a driving tour of the riding, during which she shared valuable insights into the region's politics, history, and other key aspects of the community. Given that my government placement had a more rural focus, it was valuable to compare and contrast the two ridings, while both were located in Eastern Ontario.  

I was also happy to end my time in the office working with Alia Mufi, a past OLIP intern, who was a wonderful addition to the office in the second half of my placement. I want to thank Darren, Maddy, Alice, and Alia for welcoming me into the office and teaching me about their important work. Thank you to MPP Pasma for being a wonderful opposition placement and allowing me to participate in so many learning opportunities.