overviewAnchorIdentity. Diversity. Equity. Allyship.
At Allard Law, we believe that diversity is critical to lawyering and to legal education.
Diversity means lawyers who can better serve the public and advocate effectively for justice across the social spectrum. And diversity means students who are empowered to bring their full identities and lived experience to their learning and professional formation.
If this is what diversity means to you, too, apply to join the newly launched IDEA Leaders program.
As a first-year student from a persistently, historically and systemically marginalized group, or an ally, you can be a part of a selected cohort of students coming together to build belonging and empower diversity. Before jumping into the law school experience, the IDEA Leaders program provides a small group setting to provide inspiration, connections and resources to help support you as students, advocates and allies, and to help build community.
Over three days prior to the regular law school orientation, you’ll participate in exploratory and reflective workshops and team-building and social activities. You’ll also meet upper-year law student affinity group leaders and network with legal professionals from similar backgrounds. The program provides a safe space to hear about the diverse experiences of others in their cohort, to discuss the potential challenges of law school, to learn about well-being resources and practices, and to explore tools and strategies for engaging classroom discussions that may touch on your identity and experience.
whoAnchorWho can apply
The IDEA Leaders Program is for anyone who identifies as one or more of the following (listed alphabetically):
- a first-generation university student;
- being from an economically disadvantaged background;
- disabled or with a chronic health condition that impacts their daily life;
- Indigenous;
- 2SLGBTQI+;
- Racialized; and
- any others who self-identify themselves as benefiting from such a program, including students who are interested and have experience in justice, equity, diversity and inclusion work (allies and accomplices)
whenAnchorWhen & Where
The program starts before Orientation and includes activities for three full days including evenings.
This year it will be held from Friday August 23 to Sunday August 25, 2024 at Allard Hall.
While activities are still being confirmed, we expect IDEA Leaders to have opportunities to explore campus and Vancouver.
costAnchorCost
Participation in the program, including meals during program activities, is free for attendees.
howAnchorHow to apply
All entering JD students who meet the eligibility criteria above are invited to submit an application to the program. Applications will be reviewed by Allard Law staff and members of the IDEA Leaders Advisory Committee on a rolling basis, with all offers confirmed by the end of June 2024.
Space is limited; we anticipate accepting up to around 20 applications. Applicants need to be able to commit to participating in all three days of the program.
Preview application questions (PDF)
questionsAnchorQuestions?
If you have questions that are not answered above, please reach out to idea.leaders@allard.ubc.ca.
advisoryAnchorAdvisory Group Members
Sponsors
