July 1, 2026 — Before arriving on Parliament Hill, I wasn’t sure if I belonged there.
When I first considered applying to the National Philippine Parliamentary Internship Program (NPPIP), I almost talked myself out of it. My background didn’t look like what I imagined for a “typical” parliamentary intern. I graduated with a degree in athletic therapy at the University of Winnipeg and spent years coaching hockey, working in medical sales, and representing the Philippines as a member of the Philippine National Women’s Ice Hockey Team.
Politics and public policy felt like a completely different, untouchable world. As I sat in front of the application screen, I deeply questioned whether my unconventional experiences would be enough. Looking back, I realize those distinct experiences weren’t obstacles I needed to overcome – they were exactly the unique assets I brought to the table.
One of the greatest lessons I learned through NPPIP is that there is no singular, rigid path into public service. Every person brings a unique perspective, and those diverse perspectives make our institutions stronger. I am incredibly grateful that I took a chance on myself and was selected alongside such an inspiring group of interns.
Reflections on Mentorship and Leadership
I had the privilege of serving in the office of Senator Flordeliz (Gigi) Osler. As a fellow Filipina Canadian and Manitoban, learning from Senator Osler made this experience especially meaningful. She leads the Canadian Senators Group, and her leadership, kindness, and commitment to public service demonstrated that effective leadership is just as much about people as it is about policy.
From my very first day, Senator Osler made me feel like a valued member of the team. She encouraged my ideas, trusted me with meaningful work, and fostered an environment where
I felt comfortable asking questions and taking on new challenges. Her mentorship gave me the confidence to contribute and reinforced my sense of belonging in these historic spaces.
Throughout the internship, I conducted legislative research, contributed to projects within the office, and worked closely with the Canadian Senators Group Research Bureau in support of Senator Osler's work as the group's leader. Entering the program with limited knowledge of Parliament, I left with a much deeper appreciation for how legislation is meticulously developed and how public service shapes the lives of Canadians. The experience challenged me intellectually while strengthening my research, writing, and critical thinking skills, leaving me better prepared for a future in public service.
Just as meaningful were the people I met along the way. Throughout the program, we had the opportunity to connect with Filipino Canadian leaders working in government, law, diplomacy, communications, and public service. Hearing their stories reminded me that there is no single path to leadership. Seeing Filipino Canadians in positions of influence reinforced how important representation is, not only because it reflects our communities, but also because it encourages others to believe they belong there too.
As more Canadian Filipinos continue to step into leadership roles across government, law, business, sport, and public service, I hope more young people see that there is, indeed, space for them too.
Members of the 2026 National Philippine Parliamentary Internship Program on Parliament Hill.
Reflections on Representation
Having previously had the honour of representing the Philippines internationally on the ice through sport, seeing the Philippine flag raised in Canada’s capital carried special significance. It reminded me that there are many ways to serve and represent our community. Whether that be through sport, public service, advocacy, or leadership. It was a powerful celebration of our heritage and a reminder of how far our community has come.
More importantly, it reminded me why representation matters. When young Canadian Filipinos see themselves reflected in spaces like Parliament Hill, they begin to believe those spaces belong to them too.
Representation, however, is about more than simply seeing our faces in these spaces. It is about knowing that our unique voices, lived experiences, and distinct perspectives carry weight once we are sitting there. The more diverse the people around the decision-making table, the stronger and more representative our communities become. If there’s one thing this experience taught me, it’s that you don’t need the “perfect” background to belong in these spaces. Sometimes all it takes is believing in yourself enough to apply. You never know where one opportunity might lead.
Memorable Friendships and Moments
Equally memorable were the friendships I built with my fellow interns. Although we came from different provinces, backgrounds, and academic disciplines, we quickly became a close-knit cohort. We learned from one another, supported one another, and shared an experience that I’ll always be grateful for. They made the grand halls of Parliament Hill feel a little more like home.
The NPPIP is a non-partisan program that gives young Filipino Canadians the opportunity to experience Parliament from the inside. Interns are placed in the office of a Senator or Member of Parliament, where they contribute to legislative research, communications, and day-to-day parliamentary work while gaining a deeper understanding of how Canada’s political system operates. Beyond the placement itself, the program creates opportunities to connect with parliamentarians, diplomats, and leaders in the Filipino Canadian community, while encouraging the next generation to become more engaged in public service and civic leadership.
Our internship started on May 4 and ended on June 12, 2026. Our batch – 10 in all - included one each from British Columbia and Alberta, three each from Manitoba and Ontario, and two from Quebec.
As a proud second-generation Filipina Canadian, one of the most profound moments of the internship was participating in the Philippine flag-raising ceremony on Parliament Hill during Filipino Heritage Month. Standing alongside my fellow interns, community leaders, families, and members of the broader Canadian Filipino community, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride.
Beyond Parliament Hill
I leave my parliamentary internship with far more than a deeper understanding of governance. I leave with lifelong friendships, mentors I deeply admire, a renewed pride in my Filipino heritage, and an even stronger desire to pursue a career in law and public service.
Indeed, I am deeply grateful to the organizers, mentors, parliamentary staff, and everyone who invested in our personal and professional growth throughout the program. Their encouragement, mentorship, and generosity created an experience that will stay with me long after my internship on Parliament Hill ended.
Canadian Filipino Net is an independent, non-profit digital magazine produced by volunteer writers, editors, and webmasters. Your donation will go a long way so we can continuously publish stories about Canadian Filipinos. Click on a donate button and proceed either through PayPal, Debit, or Credit Card.