Indigenous Youth Internship Program

 

 

Every year, the Indigenous Youth Internship Program (IYIP) provides a 12-month paid internship for up to 25 Indigenous youth ages 19 to 29 in B.C.

This program was created by the BC Public Service Agency in partnership with the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, Indigenous leaders and Indigenous youth organizations as part of the B.C. government's commitment to the new relationship with First Nations and Indigenous People.

IYIP was the recipient of the Deputy Minister's Award of Excellence in Innovation in 2009 and the Premier's Award for Partnership in 2010 to 2011.

Current BC Public Service employees who identify as Indigenous and have completed probation may apply for the program. If accepted to the program, they will be approved for a temporary assignment and will retain their regular status. Upon completion of the program, they will return to their base position or an equivalent.

Interns are eligible for benefits and leave entitlements applicable to benefitted auxiliary employees under Article 31 – Clauses 31 – Application of Agreement, 31.9 – Medical, Dental and Group Life Insurance, 31.11 – Annual Vacations and 31.12 – Eligibility Requirements for Benefits.  Please visit the Collective agreements page for the current and historic agreements. 

Program goals

The Indigenous Youth Internship program aims to:

• Encourage Indigenous youth to grow their careers within the BC Public Service or Indigenous organizations as a place to pursue a rewarding career
• Support Indigenous youth to develop their leadership skills
• Provide opportunities for Indigenous youth to contribute and improve relationship building between Indigenous communities/organizations and the provincial government
• Contribute to closing the social and economic gaps that exist between Indigenous people and other British Columbians

How it works

The program mirrors the school year and runs annually from September to the following August. It provides professional experience, leadership development, cultural support, and a professional, cultural and social network through the intern cohort

Interns are placed with a government ministry for 9 months, then with an Indigenous organization for 3 months. Interns focus on important work such as:

• Engaging communities 
• Developing policies and programs
• Managing projects
• Promoting healthy lifestyles 
• Participating in adjudications and negotiations
• Conducting research

Interns are mentored through the year and have opportunities to attend workshops and conferences, take courses and receive career coaching.