Frequently asked questions (FAQ) - IYIP

About Alternatives

Alternatives is a solidarity organization committed to advancing justice and economic, social, political, civil, cultural, and environmental rights in Quebec, across Canada, and throughout the world. We support citizen action and the autonomous contributions of grassroots and social movements in building sustainable societies. Alternatives participates in local and international mobilizations to strengthen collective rights.

Since its founding in 1994, Alternatives has organized solidarity internships to strengthen the work of its international partners, train youth in cooperation and international solidarity, and raise awareness of global issues among the Quebec/Canadian public. Over nearly 30 years, close to 2,000 youth have completed internships with Alternatives and its partners.

What is the International Youth Internship Program (IYIP)?

The International Youth Internship Program (IYIP) is part of the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy. The program offers meaningful professional experiences to Permanent Residents and Canadian citizens aged 18 to 30, particularly those facing barriers to employment. Virtual internships lasting twelve weeks are also available for youth who meet specific eligibility criteria.

As many program participants have shared, these internships offer opportunities to develop skills, knowledge, and tools that prepare youth for future employment or further education.

What’s special about an internship with Alternatives?

All internships offered by Alternatives are carried out within partner organizations that, among other activities, leverage information and communication technologies (ICT) in support of equality and social justice, while specializing in international development, human rights, and the right to education. With a mission to promote international cooperation and solidarity, and in accordance with the needs of each partner, interns have the opportunity to work alongside individuals from diverse backgrounds who advocate for values of social change, the fight against gender-based violence, environmental protection, and access to education for all.

In which countries are internships carried out?

IYIP internships are offered by local NGOs in about 15 different countries. Please note that some countries may not be available for certain cohorts, or that we may add additional options during the program. The list below is updated based on country availability:

Argentina
Benin
Brazil
Cameroon
Costa Rica
Democratic Republic of Congo (remote internship)
Guatemala
Honduras
Kenya
Lesotho
Malaysia
Nepal
Philippines
Senegal
Sri Lanka
Uganda

How much does it cost?

Although international internships are unpaid, all expenses are covered during the placement (airfare, rent in the host country, visa fees, mandatory vaccinations*, emergency medical travel insurance and daily allowance)

Is it paid?

All IYIP internships are voluntary and therefore unpaid. However, each intern receives a per diem to cover living expenses upon arrival in the country. This includes transportation, food, and communication costs. The amount is determined based on the economic conditions of each host country. During the pre-departure training, interns will receive a daily allowance for food based on their attendance.

How long do internships last?

The internships last three months (or 12 weeks when conducted remotely). They take place at partner organizations abroad or, in some cases, virtually from Canada for individuals who are unable to travel internationally.

However, the IYIP represents a full commitment of 4 to 5 months, which will include pre-departure training (2 weeks), an international internship (3 months) or a remote internship (12 weeks), as well as post-internship components including employability training and a mandatory public engagement activity.

During the internship, where are interns housed?

Depending on the host country, interns are accommodated in apartments with their colleagues (sometimes in shared rooms), guesthouses, or with host families (sometimes in shared rooms as well). It should be noted that we always send interns in groups of two.

What kind of interns are we looking for?

We are seeking applicants who are interested in the many aspects related to international solidarity: communication, training, empowerment, research, document management, graphic design, human rights, environmental rights, etc. That said, we are primarily looking for committed candidates who are interested in issues related to gender equality, human rights, the right to education, environmental protection, and who are seeking an enriching intercultural experience.

What are the requirements for participating in the IYIP?

To participate in the program, you must :

be between the ages of 18 and 30;
be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident;
have never participated in an IYIP internship.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your expected return date.

The IYIP program is particularly aimed at youth facing barriers to employment, particularly those who belong to or identify themselves as members of a group that faces discrimination, such as people living with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, racialized youth and members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.

However, certain specific conditions may apply depending on the internships offered. These are specified in each mandate posting.

IMPORTANT NOTICE :

If you participated in the International Aboriginal Youth Internships (IAYI) initiative, you are eligible for this new iteration of the IYIP.
If you have previously participated in the International Youth Internship Program, but were repatriated due to COVID in the spring of 2020, you may complete a new internship in the format that suits you, either virtual or in-person.
If you have already completed an in-person internship, you cannot complete a virtual internship, as it is intended as an accommodation measure. You also cannot complete another in-person internship.