Yesterday afternoon, the Ontario NDP announced the launch of a summer youth leadership program that will begin this year, in summer 2026. 

There will be 12 paid interns, and the program will last 14 weeks.  Six of these spots, two per equity group, have been set aside for Black, Indigenous and Muslim youth.  While few specifics have been shared, ONDP President Janelle Brady shared that the program will be focused on leadership and hands-on-experience within the party. 

At the Ontario NDP Convention in September 2025, the concept for the internship program was introduced as a resolution and passed with significant support.  If the structure outlined in the resolution is followed, the internship will take place from May to August.  The pay rate has not been announced, but trusted anonymous sources say it’s expected to be $23.40 an hour.

“I’m very excited that the Party has recognized the importance of investing into our youth organizers. Over the past two years, ONDY has paved the path on building crucial grassroots party infrastructure,” says newly elected ONDY Co-Chair Raymond Bhushan, who wrote the initial resolution. “With this youth internship program, our young leaders can develop their skills while earning a fair wage.” 

Bhushan also thanked the outgoing ONDY executive, party leadership, COPE and the Ethno-Racial Equity committee for their help in making this possible. 

“I’m just so excited that it’s off the ground,” says ONDP Leader Marit Stiles. “I can’t overstate how important I think this is, and what a great opportunity it will be, not just for the people who will be able to apply and be successful in taking on those roles, but for the party.”