STUDENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAMME
About The Student Ambassador Programme
Are you a student at a Canadian university interested in defence and national security?
The CDA Institute is seeking passionate university students across Canada to become Student Ambassadors. This opportunity is open to undergraduate students and students at technical colleges who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Over the Fall 2026–Winter 2027 academic year, Ambassadors will bring defence-related discussions to their campuses by working closely with a professor at their university to plan and host an on-campus event. The format of the Student Ambassador’s event can range from panel discussions and lectures to roundtables and movie/documentary screenings.
With support from the CDA Institute and access to its extensive network of leading defence experts, Ambassadors will gain hands-on experience organizing events, build meaningful professional connections, and encourage a greater awareness of defence-related issues among their peers.
Benefits of Becoming a Student Ambassador
- Receive funding for the expenses of the on-campus event you organize
- Be featured on the CDA Institute’s website and social media (an audience of nearly 20,000 followers)
- Access the CDA Institute’s Annual Graduate Student Conference as a guest open to Ambassadors in the National Capital Region
- Gain priority consideration for participation in the CDA Institute’s Mentorship Program
How To Apply
- Submit a statement of interest (250 words maximum) explaining how your program of study, personal interests, and previous experience would make you a good Student Ambassador
- Upload your CV
- Provide a letter of support from a faculty member
The deadline to apply is October 9, 2026.
Due to the high volume of expected candidates, only those shortlisted for an interview will be contacted.
If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to reach out to Veronika Brand, Advocacy and Campaign Coordinator, at Veronika@cdainstitute.ca.
Topics For Your Event
Can include, but are not limited to:
Gender in the DND/CAF | Arctic Sovereignty |
Emerging Technology and AI | Climate Security |
NATO and European Defence | Recruitment and Retention |
Canada-China Relations | Continental Defence and NORAD |
Indo-Pacific Strategy | Economic Security |
