How to Apply
Applications open annually on September 1st and close on November 15th. Read on for everything you need to know about the process.
How do I put together a strong application?
In general, there are three main components that the Selection Committee looks for in a strong application.
We recognize that there are intricacies and nuance in defining and writing on these three components. For more detailed information on how best to approach these three aspects of your application, we always recommend engaging with some of our application supports!
You as an individual candidate
Do you show a readiness and desire to learn and grow as a changemaker?
The strength of your initiative idea
Is your initiative compelling, creative, innovative, and feasible?
The strength of your connection to community
Do you demonstrate a strong, meaningful, and pre-existing connection with your chosen community?
Below are examples of questions asked of candidates in the application
Your Community
Tell us about the community at the center of your initiative and your affiliation with that community. Include information such as: What is your connection with this community/organization? Did the community express a desire for the proposed initiative?
Your Initiative Idea
Describe your initiative/idea. Include information such as: How did you identify the initiative you are proposing and what is your connection to the social issue at hand? What are the changes and impacts you and your community are hoping for as a result of your initiative? Can your initiative be accomplished within the time frame and budget provided? What challenges and obstacles do you foresee?
About You
Tell us about you. Include information such as: Why are you the appropriate candidate for this Fellowship? How will your relevant skills, knowledge areas, and experiences contribute to a positive year as a Pathy Fellow? What are your motivations, your goals? What are your personal and professional aspirations following this Fellowship?
References
Your Community Reference should be someone who is rooted in or deeply connected to your community. They should be someone who has an understanding and awareness of community values and priorities. This should be a person who you have an established connection with, who knows you well. This reference should be able to speak to your position and experience within the community and affirm the community’s broad receptivity and interest in your proposed initiative.
Your Additional Reference (professional, academic, volunteer, etc.) should be someone who knows you well and is able to speak to your capacities and motivations in a way that is relevant to the Fellowship. This individual should be someone who has seen your workstyle and leadership in action and can speak to your character and abilities in a meaningful way.
*Note that these questions change year-to-year.
We recommend utilizing program resources for more dedicated application support.
Important Dates
Application Phase
September 1, 2025 – November 15, 2025
Begin your application, connect with references, and access support resources before submitting by the deadline.
Initial Longlist Review
November 16, 2025 – December 5, 2025
Applications are assessed by a team of reviewers with relevant experience to determine which candidates move forward.
Video Interview
December 5 - 14, 2025
Longlisted candidates submit a short video sharing their motivations in applying to the Fellowship and their vision for the year.
Shortlist Review
December 15, 2025 – January 16, 2026
Video interviews and applications are reviewed by the shortlisting committee who select up to 20 candidates to invite for in-person interviews.
Selection Days
February 26 – 27, 2026
Shortlisted candidates travel to Montreal for in-person interviews and group activities. Meals, accommodations, and travel within Canada are paid for by the program.
Fellowship Offers Sent
March 6, 2026
Successful candidates receive their Fellowship offers via email, and the Fellowship journey begins!
Program Begins
June 29, 2026
Fellows participate in four weeks of in-person participatory training at Coady Institute alongside their cohort peers ahead of planning and implementing their community-driven initiatives.
*Please note that due to the emergent nature of review and scheduling, that dates are subject to change.