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Aboriginal youth internship program faqs
Aboriginal Youth Internship Program
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Aboriginal Youth Internship Program?
- How was this program developed?
- Who is eligible to apply to the program?
- How can interested youth apply to be a part of the Aboriginal Youth Internship Program?
- What do applicants need to provide in their application packages?
- What is the deadline for application?
- How are the interns selected?
- What are the components of the program?
- If an Aboriginal Youth who applied for the program was not accepted to be a part of the program can they apply again in the future?
- If an Aboriginal Youth who applied to the program was not accepted to be a part of the program could they apply for other jobs in government?
- Is there a mailing list to receive updates on calls for applications and other program announcements?
What is the Aboriginal Youth Internship Program?
The Aboriginal Youth Internship Program (AYIP) provides an annual opportunity for Aboriginal youth in British Columbia to obtain valuable work experience and forge strong working relationships within the BC Public Service.
The program is 12-months long which includes nine-month's employment in a provincial ministry followed by three-month's employment within a selected Aboriginal organization.
TopHow was this program developed?
It was developed by the provincial government, through dialogue and engagement with Aboriginal youth, Aboriginal organizations and communities, the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation and the BC Public Service Agency.
Who is eligible to apply to the program?
Aboriginal youth residing in British Columbia who are age 29 and under at the time the program starts in September are eligible to apply. The applicant must possess a minimum of grade 12 education and some post-secondary education or equivalent of education, work, and volunteer experience.
How can interested youth apply to be a part of the Aboriginal Youth Internship Program?
A call for interested applicants will be put out every year between March 15th and May 15th. The job posting for Aboriginal Youth Interns will be on the BC Government Job Opportunities website during that time. Applications must be submitted through the Job Opportunities website. The deadline to submit an application is May 15th for a start in September.
What do applicants need to provide in their application packages?
Applicants need to provide:
- Their resume,
- A cover letter,
- Their top three areas of interest and job placement preferences, and
- Two letters of support from the Aboriginal community (i.e. Elders, teachers, coaches, employers or youth organizations).
Incomplete applications at the time of the deadline will not be considered.
What is the deadline for application?
Each year the deadline for applications will be May 14th. Late applications will not be considered.
How are the interns selected?
A selection committee comprised of the Aboriginal Youth Internship Program managers, a selected provincial ministry Aboriginal employee, an Aboriginal Youth Internship Program alumni and two Aboriginal youth representatives will shortlist and interview selected applicants.
Successful applicants will be notified of their acceptance into the program by July 1. A list of alternates will also be compiled in the event that a successful applicant is unable to start the program in September.
What are the components of the program?
- Orientation week held in Victoria
- Traditional welcoming ceremony
- Three professional development days
- On-going workshops
- Course and conference opportunities
- Mentoring support
- Career Counselling
- Networking and job shadowing opportunities
- Closing ceremony
Interns will acquire an increased understanding of
- Public service roles in the provincial government and Aboriginal organizations,
- The role and responsibilities of Aboriginal organizations in the province, and
- Aboriginal organizations relationship with the provincial government.
Additionally, interns will gain increased knowledge, skills, abilities and experience that could provide clarity on further academic pursuits or may lead to further employment opportunities in the provincial government or in Aboriginal organizations.
If an Aboriginal youth who applied for the program was not accepted to be a part of the program can they apply again in the future?
Yes, previous applicants who were not accepted in years past can reapply as long as they still meet the age and residency requirements of the program.
If an Aboriginal Youth who applied to the program was not accepted to be a part of the program could they apply for other jobs in government?
Yes, each job opportunity in government is open to all members of the public.
Is there a mailing list to receive updates on calls for applications and other program announcements?
Yes, there is an e-list serve for program announcements. Please contact out Program Assistant if you would like to add your email to this list.
