Welcome to the Alternatives International Youth Internship Program main page!
Objectives
In the continuity of the many initiatives we have carried out with youth in Quebec and Canada over the last thirty years, Alternatives, with the help of the International Youth Internship Program (IYIP) of Global Affairs Canada, expresses a real desire to train the next generation in the field of solidarity and international cooperation.
Each year, until Fall 2028, this program will offer Canadian youth and permanent residents, particularly those facing barriers to employment, the opportunity to participate in three-month internships within partner organizations in more than 14 countries. Virtual internships are 12 weeks long.
Who is this program for?
This program is particularly aimed at youth facing barriers to employment: those who belong to or identify with a group that faces discrimination, such as people living with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, racialized youth, and members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
The 2024-2029 edition of the internship program enables selected youth to acquire:
- Professional experience abroad (or in some cases virtually) in the field of international development, education and gender equality, but also in communications, human rights, the right to education, environmental protection, action research and advocacy development.
- Skills that prepare them for future employment or further study.
Program Overview
Training in Montreal
Before leaving, select candidates must follow a mandatory pre-departure training related to communications technology, media, and human rights. This includes a 10-day in-person French-language training in Montreal, or online for candidates who are unable to travel. A shorter online training in English may also be offered.
The IYIP also aims to help participants integrate into the job market upon their return. As part of this, participation in the program includes workshops designed to improve interview skills and strengthen job search tools.
Duration of internships abroad and in Quebec
IYIP internships last three months (12 weeks for virtual internships) in a partner organization abroad or virtually in Quebec, to enable people with reduced mobility or family obligations to participate in the program.
Compensation
All IYIP internships are voluntary and therefore unpaid. However, each intern receives a per diem covering food, transportation, and communication costs. The amount of the per diem will be determined according to the economic conditions of each host country. During pre-departure training, interns will receive a daily allowance.
Target countries
The program targets 14 countries in the Global South, including several in Central and South America, Africa, the Indian subcontinent and South Asia. Here is the list of countries and mandates, click on the links to find out more. You will find an English version of each mandate by clicking on « English version » of the top left corner.
Selection process
Interns are selected after analysis of the applications submitted via our registration form. After the application deadline and if all documents are provided, those selected for an interview are contacted
IMPORTANT: To participate in the program, you must be between the ages of 18 and 30, be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and have never participated in the IYIP program before. However, certain specific eligibility conditions may apply — these are outlined in each individual internship posting. In addition, you’ll need to make sure you have a passport that will be valid for at least 6 months after you return from your internship abroad.
IMPORTANT : For full program details and before contacting us for information, visit our FAQ sectionby clicking here.
Registration for the August-December 2026 cohort will open in mid-April 2026.
Keep an eye on our website and social media channels!
If you have any further questions, please contact us by:
Email: psij@alternatives.ca
Phone: 514-982-6606 #2247 or #2236
