Leaders must dream of changing the world. They must have an inspired vision of the changes they want to make and be prepared to consecrate all their energy to that purpose. A capacity to communicate their objectives is indispensable to sustain the enthusiasm of their collaborators and their perseverance in action.

— The Right Honourable Jeanne Sauvé, Opening Speech to the National Conference for Young Leaders, June 2-8, 1991

Yes, if you are:

• 30 years old or under on December 31st 2009
• A highly motivated self-starter
• A committed agent of change

Yes, if you have:

• A minimum of 2-3 years of professional and/or work experience (paid or unpaid). Experience may include positions in a volunteer or internship capacity 
  Completed your undergraduate education, or the equivalent, by 31 July 2010
  (advanced degrees are welcome but not a requirement)
• A record of accomplishment and ability to meet challenges
• Demonstrated leadership qualities
• Proven communications skills
• A highly developed curiosity about the world
• A strong interest in international and domestic issues
• An eagerness to engage with the complex issues of the day

Yes, if you possess these qualities

• Initiative
• Vision
• Imagination
• Determination to achieve your goals

Yes, if you are seeking the time and opportunity to:

• Grow, both personally and professionally
• Enhance your ability to effect change
• Undertake or complete an important project or field of study

Being a Sauvé Scholar is not for the faint of heart. It is challenging. The environment is intellectually stimulating, filled with human and physical resources. With networks enriched and expanded, horizons sharpened and refocused, it is a year of incredible personal growth.

There is no typical Sauvé Scholar, no pre-established profile, other than demonstrated achievement in his or her chosen field, and evidence of the will, vision and determination to effect change for the betterment of society. Candidates are expected to have a solid academic record and, while attending university, to have taken an active part as a student or community leader. Professional experience (whether paid or volunteer) is an important asset.

Alumni and current Scholars represent a range of academic disciplines, professional experience, community activities and interests. They have come from fields such as the arts, advocacy, economics, education, entrepreneurship, the environment, government, media and communications, medicine, and social and community development. Their proposed projects and research reflect the same diversity as their backgrounds.

The 87 alumni and current Scholars have come from 44 countries and every region of the world. Their countries of origin include Afghanistan, Algeria, Armenia, Bhutan, Brazil, Burma, China, Egypt, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru, Portugal, Sierra Leone, Slovakia, Turkey, Uganda, the United Kingdom the United States and Zambia. Every year there are one or two Canadians to guide their colleagues through the mysteries of Canadian customs, culture and – dare we say – weather.