Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference (Leadership Canada)

The Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference (GGCLC) is Canada’s premier youth leadership program. It brings together emerging leaders from across business, government, NGOs, education, labour, and cultural sectors to engage in a transformative two-week experience. The aim is to broaden perspectives, deepen understanding of leadership in Canada, and build national networks of changemakers.

Participants get to interact with leaders in various fields, tackle challenging topics facing Canada, and gain exposure to national institutions and public policy.

When & Where

• The next edition is scheduled for May 22 to June 5, 2026.
• Applications for 2026 are open now, with a deadline of September 30, 2025.
• The Conference is hosted in Canada and involves immersive travel, networking, lectures, and field experiences across different provinces.

Who Can Apply?

GGCLC seeks young Canadians (or residents) across sectors:

• From business, labour, government, NGOs, education, cultural sectors
• Those who are recognized as emerging leaders or have shown leadership potential
• Applicants must commit to participating fully in the entire two-week program and bring perspectives and energy to the cohort (leadershipcanada.ca)

Benefits & What Participants Gain

• National exposure & networks: Connect with peers from across Canada and engage with senior leaders.
• Leadership development: Through workshops, lectures, field visits, and site tours, participants deepen their understanding of Canadian issues and leadership challenges.
• Perspective expansion: Participants travel and engage in multiple provinces to see firsthand Canada’s regional diversity and issues.
• Civic and policy engagement: Exposure to public policy, governance, and sector cross-connectivity.
• Alumni network: Once you’re part of GGCLC, you join a network of leaders across Canada who continue to collaborate, exchange ideas, and support one another.

How to Apply & Key Steps

1. Fill the online application on the Leadership Canada / GGCLC website. (leadershipcanada.ca)
2. Submit required documents, which may include a resume, references, personal statements, or essays—check the application portal.
3. Demonstrate leadership experience or potential—what you’ve done so far, how you’ve contributed, and how you hope to grow.
4. Commit to full participation during the two weeks (travel, sessions, events across regions).
5. Submit by the deadline (Sept 30, 2025) if you aim for the 2026 cohort. (leadershipcanada.ca)

Why It’s a Strong Opportunity

• This is one of Canada’s most established leadership programs for young professionals and students.
• It offers a unique mix of policy exposure, network building, field experiences, and introspection.
• Being selected gives you a national platform and credibility in Canada’s leadership and civic space.