Toronto’s Regional Champions Campaign is a unique program to introduce university-aged women to municipal government.

Mafaza Assan (left) and Simone Samuels (right), were protegees to Councillor Pam McConnell for the 2009/2010 session of the Toronto Regional Champions program.

With the participation of all Toronto women councillors, the program offers a unique opportunity for protégées to receive information, support, and a unique window on the experiences of elected women.

Launched in September 2008, this year-long mentoring program is Toronto’s response to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities call to increase women’s participation in municipal government.  The United Nations defines 30% as the minimum female representation to ensure that policies reflect women’s concerns.

As the 2009/2010 session draws to an end,  Councillor McConnell’s protégées have written an account of their experiences in the program.

Click to read articles by Mafaza Assan and Simone Samuels.