One of the reasons I love living in Toronto at this particular time is the growing energy going into making the city a truly great place to live. There’s an increasing interest amongst everyday citizens in civic issues: topics like housing, transit, streetscapes, art, outdoor life, pollution, and economic vitality are fast becoming part of everyone’s sphere of interest.[1] And just as importantly, there’s an increasing willingness and capacity to change things. Unlike many other cities I’ve visited, Toronto is a place where you can actually change the way the city works, and accomplish it in your lifetime. It’s a huge reason to live here.

If this line of thinking resonates with you, and you’ve been seeking ways to get more engaged within the city, there is a program you need to know about: The City of Toronto is launching the “Urban Fellows Program“, an initiative aimed at attracting new high caliber professionals to the Toronto Public Service.

As I understand it, it’s one half boot-camp, one half incubator for smart people who want to make the city better. Participants get “an intensive introduction to the governance, operations and administration of Canada’s largest city through a combination of full-time work experience and participation in a series of seminars, tours and workshops.”

The program is one year long, with two six-month rotations in city positions. They’re seeking Masters – and Ph.D.-level experience, although that doesn’t seem to be an absolute requirement… I read it as, “we want whip-smart, well-educated people who are fired up about making the city better”. There are a limited number of positions. And it’s paid: the salary is almost $62K, some serious cash.

I love this concept, and I hope they net some really great thinkers. Applications are due may 30, and the first cohort starts this September. Please help spread the word.

[1] I readily admit to being biased by the people I surround myself with.