A new online program is set to help women gear up for the 2026 municipal elections in Ontario.
Elect HER Now, a grassroots effort aimed at assisting women in local politics, will present its Online Campaign School over four Tuesdays in April. This interactive series will feature topic-focused training videos, brief “Power Talks” by current women leaders, and small-group breakout sessions.
Jennifer Shaw, co-chair of the Grey Bruce Education and Outreach group with Elect HER Now, shared that the program aims to equip participants with the necessary tools to run for municipal office.
“Each week there’s going to be a different topic of focus. We’ll cover how to make the decision to run for Council, what you need to know to get started, and how build a team,” Shaw continued. “What you need to know about raising funds and campaign financing, as well as how to craft a ‘why I’m running’ story, and what you need to know for marketing.”
The program also highlights the importance of women’s perspectives in municipal decision-making.
“Women have different experiences and bring different perspectives to the table,” she added. “We believe that having those varied perspectives results in overall better decision-making and outcomes for communities.”
Shaw pointed out that while the program encourages women to run, it welcomes all who wish to learn more about local government.
“Anybody who is interested in local government is invited and welcome to participate in this campaign school,” she said. “It will consist of video recordings and breakout sessions. While Elect HER Now is focused on encouraging women to run, the campaign school is open to everybody…whether you’ve made up your mind or just want to check it out.”
The Online Campaign School runs on April 7, 14, 21, and 28 from 7 to 8:30 p. m. EST. Tickets are available on a pay-what-you-can basis, ranging from $0 to $50, ensuring accessibility for all. For registration and more information, visit electhernow. ca/events.
Municipal elections across Ontario are scheduled for Monday, October 26, 2026. Elect HER Now hopes that programs like this will boost female representation in local government and provide the knowledge and support needed for successful campaigns.
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