Help write the next chapter in Canadian Civic Leadership

Civic Leadership Training Program

Program Dates: to be announced soon
Application deadline: to be announced soon

Canadian institutions need your leadership.

The ACCT Civic Leadership Training Program Pilot is a 6.5-day program designed for diverse and rising leaders of Chinese Canadian descent who are ready to serve in civic leadership roles. 

Unlike any other leadership program, we’ll critically examine the issues facing Chinese Canadians and explore how we can create broad institutional change. Together, we’ll work to drastically increase the representation of Chinese Canadians in civic leadership roles, fostering greater democracy within our country.

Program Overview

Part 1: Exploring Race, Culture and Identity

Implicit and explicit racial bias has created barriers for Chinese Canadians and impacted how many leaders view themselves. We’ll address issues of stereotypes and cultural competency as we forge a path to a more equitable future. We’ll also explore our Chinese heritage and cultural values, as well as issues of democracy and citizenship.

Part 2: Building Leadership Skills

You’ll learn how to position yourself as a leader, and dive deep into concepts such as a growth mindset vs. fixed mindset. You’ll have the opportunity to practice your leadership story and develop your personal vision and goals. We’ll also explore the complexity of the Chinese community and discuss how our cultural identity can be an incredible leadership asset.

Part 3: Focus on Public Appointments and Civil Society

We’ll review public appointments and other opportunities, as well as how to pursue them at the various levels. You’ll hear firsthand experiences from people working in government who’ve gone through the process. You’ll leave the program with an action plan to help you succeed in becoming a leader, mobilizer, organizer and influencer.

Program Facilitator

Teresa Woo-Paw

Teresa Woo-Paw has dedicated her career to promoting active civic engagement and social inclusion. Over 40 years, Teresa has founded 7 organizations including the ACCT Foundation, and served on over 30 committees and boards. She is a social worker by training and consultant by profession, offering diversity training to numerous organizations.

Teresa’s community service has earned her many awards. She is also the first Trustee and Chair of the Calgary Board of Education of Asian Canadian descent (1995-99), as well as the first female Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and Cabinet Minister of Asian Canadian descent (2008-15).

Program contributors:

  • Lawrence Lee
  • Patti Pon
  • Dr. Joseph Wong
  • Beverly Yee
  • Canadian School of Public Policy
  • Institute for Community Prosperity

Who Should Apply

This program is an ideal fit for diverse and rising leaders of Chinese Canadian descent in all sectors. We will select 10-12 participants for the pilot program, with the aim for 3 to become future program facilitators.

Applicants should:

  1. Be over the age of 25
  2. Have a minimum of 5 years professional and/or volunteer experience
  3. Have taken at least one leadership program already
  4. Have a desire to make our community/Canada a better place
  5. Want to move into a civic leadership role in 1-2 years
  6. Be prepared to provide feedback on the pilot program

We recruit based on the following key attributes: 

  • Empathy
  • Optimism
  • Curiosity
  • Self-awareness
  • Authenticity
  • Desire to be a team player
  • Sense of purpose  
  • Listening skills
  • Desire to contribute to your community    
  • Drive and ambition

How to Apply

Submit your completed application to events@acctfoundation.ca.

Please include:

  1. Current resume/CV and cover letter, providing your reasons for applying (please specify if you are interested in applying to be a program facilitator)
  2. Recommendation form or letter completed by your employer or community leader/colleague
  3. Recommendation form or letter completed by a personal reference

Selection Process

The program selection committee includes 3-5 people from various sectors of Chinese

Canadian descent.

We will invite shortlisted candidates to interview either in person or via video conference. Please note, only successful candidates will be contacted.

Program Fee

$150 via cheque or e-transfer is due upon acceptance. Participants with a minimum of 80% attendance will receive a $100 refund at the end of the program.

Accommodation and mileage subsidies may be offered pending funding availability. 

Help write the next chapter in Canadian civic leadership. Apply today.