If you’re a high school student based in Canada looking for leadership opportunities outside your school, consider a leadership program!
Leadership programs go beyond traditional classroom learning, giving you the chance to engage in projects, collaborative exercises, and mentorship opportunities that can help build a strong skillset Canada is home to a wide range of universities (such as the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia) and organizations (such as the Canadian Management Centre) that design these programs specifically for youth. Leadership programs for high school students in Canada may also offer reduced tuition fees to local students.
By participating in leadership programs for high school students in Canada, you not only gain access to high-quality training and university resources but also save on the significant costs often associated with international travel.
In this blog, we’ve curated 15 leadership programs for high school students in Canada. They also include a few virtual leadership programs that allow students in Canada to apply.
15 Leadership Programs for High School Students in Canada
1. Young Founders Lab
Cost: Varies depending on program type
Location: This program is 100% virtual, with live, interactive workshops
Eligibility: The program is currently open to all high school students
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer, fall, winter, and spring
Application Deadline: Varies according to cohort. You can access the application link here!
One way to work on your leadership skills is by building a startup of your own! The Young Founder’s Lab is a start-up boot camp founded and run by Harvard entrepreneurs. In this program, you will work towards building a revenue-generating start-up that addresses a complex problem. You will also have the opportunity to be mentored by established entrepreneurs and professionals from Google, Microsoft, and X.
Apart from building the start-up itself, you will also participate in interactive classes on business fundamentals and business ideations, workshops and skill-building sessions, case studies, panel discussions, and more.The program is an excellent opportunity to delve into the world of business in high school and have a space to explore multiple theoretical as well as practical frameworks that lead to a successful business. You can check out the brochure for the program here.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies depending on program type | None
Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter
Application deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python.
If you’re looking to carry out research on tech and leadership, consider this program! Veritas AI is a project-based learning program developed by Harvard graduate students that introduces high schoolers like you to artificial intelligence in a practical way. You can begin with the AI Scholars program, which spans 10 sessions and teaches foundational concepts in AI and machine learning through interactive lessons and collaborative work. If you already have experience or want to go deeper, the AI Fellowship allows you to conduct a fully individualized project with a mentor from a top university. This track also includes optional guidance for publishing your project or presenting it in showcases. The program is conducted online, making it accessible to students globally, and encourages the use of AI to solve problems. You can also check out some examples of past projects here and apply here.
3. Toastmasters Youth Leadership Program
Location: Varies by program; offered at local schools, community centers, or Toastmasters clubs across Canada
Cost/Stipend: None | None
Dates: Year-round; dates are set by the local organizer
Application Deadline: No centralized deadline as they are set by local hosts
Eligibility: Open to students ages 10–18
The Toastmasters Youth Leadership Program is an eight-session workshop that helps you build public speaking and leadership skills in a practical setting. Conducted in schools or community spaces, each session includes prepared speeches, impromptu speaking, and comprehensive feedback, all guided by experienced Toastmasters members. You’ll learn to evaluate your own communication style, manage stage presence, and lead group discussions–skills that are valuable not just academically but in everyday life. The small group format encourages active participation, and each session follows an organized agenda with opportunities for you to take on leadership roles. The group size is limited to ensure everyone gets time to speak.
4. Government of Canada Youth Leadership Programs
Location: Virtual, in schools, or on-site in communities, parks, national institutions across Canada
Cost/Stipend: Some are free, others are low-cost | None
Dates: Year-round
Application Deadline: Varies by program
Eligibility: Open to Canadian youth aged 12–20 (specific age and grade requirements vary by program)
The Government of Canada supports a variety of youth programs that you can explore depending on your interests. Programs such as Youth Jobs and Internships allow you to work in different regions of Canada, gain new skills, and make professional connections. If you’re interested in having a say in public policy, initiatives like the Prime Minister’s Youth Council offer platforms to voice youth perspectives. There are also opportunities for leadership development through national exchanges, outdoor learning with Parks Canada, and immersive language programs to strengthen your French or English. For those interested in guided skill-building and discipline, the Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers offer funded programs that combine leadership training with outdoor adventure.
5. Lang High School Leadership Academy – University of Guelph
Location: Virtual (across Canada) | Business Pentathlon held at the University of Guelph, Guelph, Guelph, Ontario
Cost/Stipend: None | None
Dates: Workshops are available year-round; the Business Pentathlon is a one-day event in spring
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9–12 across Canada
At the University of Guelph’s Lang School of Business and Economics, the Lang High School Leadership Academy introduces you to ethical business leadership through interactive workshops, business challenges, and professional development sessions. You can take part in grade-specific challenges like pitching sustainable business ideas or analyzing ethical dilemmas. The Academy also offers hands-on workshops where you can strengthen your public speaking and networking skills, all led by university staff and students. For a more competitive experience, the Business Pentathlon brings students to campus to take part in five different business events designed to test leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking.
6. CISS Global Leadership Program
Location: CISS Toronto Campus, Toronto, ON & CISS Vancouver Campus, North Vancouver, BC
Cost/Stipend: Approximately $5,151 (CAD $7,075) | None
Dates: Toronto: June 29–July 19, July 20–August 9 | Vancouver: July 13–August 2
Application Deadline: Rolling until full
Eligibility: Open to high school students aged approximately 14–18 | IELTS 4.0+ or equivalent English level
This program gives you the chance to build leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills while studying in an immersive summer setting in Toronto or Vancouver. Throughout the program, you’ll participate in 20 hours of classes taught by experienced instructors, with lessons focused on leadership theory, cross-cultural communication, and decision-making. You’ll also engage in afternoon workshops and activities designed to help you apply these concepts in hands-on ways, including planning and presenting a community action project. Workshops cover everything from conflict resolution and media literacy to personal values and online leadership styles. Evenings and weekends are filled with excursions and camp-style events that help you explore the city.
7. UBC Future Global Leaders Program
Location: University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC | Virtual
Cost/Stipend: On-campus: Varies as per student type and course; Virtual: $674 (CAD$ 925) | None
Dates: On-campus: Session 1: July 7-18; Session 2: July 21 – August 1; Session 3: August 4 – 15 | Virtual: Year-round
Application Deadline: Rolling until full
Eligibility: High school students ages 15-18 who have completed Grade 10, with a recommended 78% 3.5 GPA / B average / IB 5 or higher / IELTS of 6.0 / TOEFL 80 or higher average or equivalent for English language learners
The UBC Future Global Leaders program allows you to take academic courses taught by UBC instructors while connecting with students from across the globe. The courses are introductory-level, similar to first-year university classes, and include subjects like business, engineering, and the arts. You’ll attend classes, live in residence or commute daily, and take part in social and recreational activities that give you a preview of student life. Online, classes meet in real time with instructors and peers, creating an interactive and engaging learning environment. Each course includes a certificate of completion and is designed to help you explore potential career paths while preparing for university.
8. YMCA Youth Leadership Programs
Location: YMCA of Greater Toronto, Ontario (multiple locations across the GTA)
Cost/Stipend: None | None
Dates: Available year-round and in the summer
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Open to high school students ages 11–18, especially newcomer youths and their parents
The YMCA Youth Leadership Development Program allows you to hone your leadership skills while engaging in community-based projects and teamwork with other teens. It blends leadership training with volunteer experience and self-governance to help you grow confidence and instill civic responsibility. Weekly group meetings, which vary by location, include skill-building activities and opportunities to contribute to your local community. If you’re new to Canada, the YMCA also offers the Newcomer Youth Leadership Development (NYLD) program, which helps you adjust to a new environment while improving your communication and cultural understanding. As part of the program, you can also earn volunteer hours for school and meet peers with similar goals.
9. ME to WE Leadership Programs
Location: Schools, community settings, or online across Canada
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program and group size (quotes are provided on request) | None
Dates: Year-round; customized per group
Application Deadline: No fixed deadline
Eligibility: All high school students | Specifics may depend on group or custom program
ME to WE Leadership Programs are short-term, customizable workshops designed to help students understand social issues, develop leadership skills, and take meaningful action in their community. Most commonly structured as three-day experiences, these workshops focus on topics such as youth empowerment, diversity, environmental sustainability, and reconciliation. During the program, you’ll participate in guided discussions, collaborative problem-solving sessions, and action planning to help you create a project tailored to a cause you care about. The curriculum also includes skill-building components like conflict resolution, communication, and digital citizenship. There are additional programs for Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth that include engagement with elders and community leaders to explore history, identity, and leadership development.
10. Leadership Camp by Dale Carnegie
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Click here for current pricing | None
Dates: Vary by region and availability
Application Deadline: Rolling until full
Eligibility: Open to high school students ages 13–17 (fluency in spoken English is recommended)
The Leadership Camp by Dale Carnegie is a live, online program that focuses on helping high school students develop the skills needed to manage real-life challenges in school, relationships, and future careers. The curriculum covers five essential areas: building self-confidence, improving communication, developing interpersonal skills, learning effective teamwork and leadership strategies, and effective attitude management. The sessions are interactive and based on real-life scenarios, including role-playing exercises that help you practice these skills in a supportive environment. You’ll also receive feedback and encouragement from both peers and trained facilitators. The program concludes with a National Award recognition ceremony that brings together participants from across the country.
11. Leader in Training (LIT) Program – WILDE School Blue Mountains
Location: WILDE School Blue Mountains, Ontario
Cost/Stipend: $175 CAD ($128/ week, second year is free. Additional costs for specialized equipment, books, and optional extracurricular activities or programs may occur (Financial aid is available) | None
Dates: Minimum 4-week commitment in the summer
Application Deadline: Rolling until full
Eligibility: Open to high school students ages 15–17
This program is a mix of formal instruction and hands-on leadership practice in an outdoor setting. It begins with the LIT Prep Course, where you’re pulled from regular camp activities at intervals to learn essential leadership topics, including risk management, group dynamics, canoeing, and wilderness survival. After this prep phase, you’re required to commit to at least two weeks of volunteer experience, leading groups and applying the skills you’ve developed. The program emphasizes mentorship and skill-building in a supportive environment, giving you real-time feedback and a chance to grow in confidence and capability. You’ll gain teaching experience, work closely with professionals in outdoor education, and walk away with strong references for future opportunities.
12. Pickering College Global Leadership Summer Camp
Location: Ontario
Cost/Stipend: $7,450 CAD ($5,425) | None
Dates: July 27 – August 22
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students ages 12-16
At the Pickering College Global Leadership Summer Camp, you’ll explore what it means to be a global leader through a combination of academic projects, design thinking, public speaking, and creative problem-solving. You’ll take part in activities like a UN Sustainable Development Goal challenge, podcast creation, and a Model UN-style conference, while also engaging in outdoor experiences on the school’s Blue & Silver Farm. Campers have access to sports, arts, and technology workshops, and excursions to places like Niagara Falls and Ottawa are also part of the experience. Throughout the camp, you’ll develop a leadership action project to apply your skills to issues, with past projects addressing topics from healthcare to environmental sustainability.
13. University of Western Ontario Ivey Summer Leadership Program
Location: Ivey Business School, Western University, Ontario
Cost/Stipend: $350 CAD ($255) | None
Dates: August 5–8
Application Deadline: June 16
Eligibility: High school students currently in grades 9-11
Hosted by Ivey Business School at Western University, the Ivey Summer Leadership Program is a four-day experience for high school students who are interested in business, innovation, and problem solving. You’ll learn using Ivey’s case method, which places you in the role of a decision-maker tasked with solving real business challenges. The curriculum includes workshops on entrepreneurship, sustainability, global leadership, and AI, and concludes with a capstone project where you’ll present your solutions to professionals. While you’re on campus, you’ll also take part in team-building and social activities, giving you a sense of university life. The program introduces you to key leadership concepts and helps develop critical thinking skills.
14. Experiential Learning in Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship (ELITE) Program for Black Youth
Location: University of Alberta (North Campus), Edmonton, Alberta; some program components are also held at InnoTech Alberta and with various industry partners
Cost/Stipend: None | Prescribed minimum wage in Alberta
Dates: 8 weeks typically during the summer; some internships may run up to 8 or 16 weeks, depending on the host and student age/level
Application Deadline: Unspecified; opens in November
Eligibility: High school students, post-secondary education students, or those accepted to post-secondary education programs and are between the ages of 15 and 22; More details here
The ELITE Program at the University of Alberta is designed to help Black youth develop technical and leadership skills through paid internships and mentorship. If you’re in high school or transitioning to post-secondary studies, this program gives you access to hands-on experience in fields like robotics, tissue engineering, and automation. You’ll be matched with a university researcher, company, or government partner for an 8- to 16-week internship and receive structured training in entrepreneurship and leadership. In addition to technical skill development, the program includes coaching on resiliency and career planning, making it a comprehensive experience. You will also benefit from a professional network of mentors and build industry contacts.
15. Catalyst Summer Program
Location: University of Waterloo, Ontario
Cost/Stipend: $715 CAD+HST ($520 + additional tax amount) | None
Dates: Session I: July 7–18 | Session II: July 21–August 1 | Session III: August 11–22
Application Deadline: February 14
Eligibility: Current high school students entering grade 10 or higher in September
The Catalyst Summer Program at the University of Waterloo combines leadership development with hands-on experience in STEM and entrepreneurship. There are two streams: the Traditional Catalyst, which focuses on engineering design and STEM exploration, and Catalyst: Early Entrepreneurs, which introduces you to business fundamentals through a partnership with the Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business. Over two weeks, you’ll attend faculty-led workshops, collaborate on group projects, and apply design thinking and problem-solving in scenarios. With only 25 students per session, the small group format allows for close mentorship and teamwork. The program encourages creativity and strategic thinking in a university setting.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, and chemistry, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs! This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper on a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. You can find the application link here!
Image source – University of Waterloo