💡 Alumni Spotlight: Jill Zelmanovits (1995-96)

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 Legal Aid Ontario. Drawn by the social impact of grassroots programs, she transitioned into non-profit management, first serving as the CEO of Girl Guides of Canada and now leading Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada. Beyond her executive roles, Jill also dedicates her time as Chair of the Board of Directors for Save the Children Canada. 

Reflecting on her OLIP experience, Jill emphasized the importance of understanding government operations from the inside. “Everyone needs to understand how government works — it is important in every single job to have been ‘on the inside’ as an Intern,” she shared. In this light, Jill’s advice to young professionals is to approach opportunities with openness; to make your default “yes.” Say yes to every experience when you are young, she says, because you never know which projects will open doors for you. 

A recent project that Jill is particularly proud of involved travelling to Mozambique with Save the Children Canada to witness the local delivery of humanitarian and development programs. She was deeply inspired by the team’s dedication to improving the lives of children and communities on the ground. 

For a touch of personal insight, Jill shared her current favourites: the novel My Friends by Fredrik Backman, and the podcast How to Be a Better Human with Ezra Klein.

We are immensely grateful to Jill for sharing her reflections, experiences, and invaluable advice. Her journey shows how OLIP can open doors to diverse and rewarding paths, inspiring us to embrace new opportunities along the way. Thank you, Jill, for sharing your time, your insights, and your remarkable journey with us!