The City of Winnipeg Council Page Program offers an incredible opportunity for local high school students to experience civic leadership up close and gain firsthand insight into how municipal decisions are made.
Designed for students in Grades 11 and 12, the program allows young people who are developing an interest in public affairs, politics, or community leadership to observe City Council in action—right from the Council Chamber at City Hall.
What Is the Council Page Program?
Council Pages play an important role during City Council meetings. Participants assist Members of Council and the City Clerk’s Department with duties that help meetings run smoothly, while also observing how public policy is debated and decided.
This experience provides students with:
- A deeper understanding of municipal government
- Exposure to real-world civic decision-making
- Valuable experience for students considering careers in public service, law, politics, or community leadership
How the Program Works
Each fall, the Speaker of City Council invites Winnipeg schools to nominate one student for consideration. From these nominations, six students are selected to serve as Council Pages for the school year.
Selection within each school is determined by the school principal.
Once chosen, Pages:
- Receive an orientation of City Hall
- Are briefed on Council procedures
- Learn their roles and responsibilities before attending meetings
Council meetings are held monthly, except in August, and begin at 9:30 a.m. Pages are required to miss classes on meeting days and must arrange their own transportation to and from City Hall. Meetings can run most of the day, though Pages are typically required to stay until 4:30 p.m.
Who Should Apply?
Students who are:
- In Grade 11 or 12
- Interested in civic issues, public service, or leadership
- Confident, attentive, polite, and well-presented
- Strong communicators and reliable
Pages are also compensated for their time, receiving $75 for a half day or $100 for a full day, depending on meeting length.
Application Requirements
Each nominated student must submit:
- A one-page essay (maximum 500 words) outlining:
- Their interest in the Council Page Program
- Relevant experience, volunteer work, or leadership roles
- Career aspirations and/or interest in civic politics or public service
Schools are asked to submit the selected student’s name, contact information, and essay for consideration by September 26, 2025.
Why This Matters
Programs like the Council Page Program help build the next generation of informed, engaged citizens. By opening the doors of City Hall to young people, Winnipeg is investing in future leaders who understand how decisions are made—and how they can make a difference in their community.
For students curious about government, advocacy, or leadership, this is a unique opportunity to learn where civic engagement truly begins.
For full program details, responsibilities, and contact information, please refer to the official City of Winnipeg Council Page Program Overview Page Program Overview – Program….
