Wavemakers: The Free, Game-Changing Program, Open to ALL Students in Canada
What is Wavemakers?
Wavemakers is a free, innovative hands-on program that helps you gain career-ready experience while working on a project for social good, all in an exciting, virtual environment.
Final Project and Workload
Design a Project with Impact: Work in teams with a mentor to create a project that aligns with a United Nations Sustainable Development Goal. Think global impact!
Dedicated Time to Work Together: You’ll have built-in session time to work with your team.
Minimal Homework: Expect no more than 4 hours of homework across the whole program (about 30-60 minutes per week).
Choose Your Pace: Select the cohort option that suits you (1 session/week or 2 sessions/week).
Session Breakdown
Introductory Session
A critical session that sets you up for success. Meet your peers, learn to navigate the virtual campus and start your Wavemakers journey.
4 Interactive Speaker Sessions
Learn from industry experts who are changing the game.
Each session is 2 hours.
3 Mentor/Team Working Sessions
Dedicated time to work with your team and mentor on your final project, in the virtual campus.
Final Session
Presentation day for you and your classmates.
What You Get as a Wavemaker
Differentiate yourself in a competitive market with in-demand career skills and a professional network
Digital completion certificate
Digital credentials that showcase your future-proof skills.
Opportunity to win a scholarship; financial support available*
Exclusive access to career networking and development events
Build meaningful connections with peers, mentors, and employers. Gain access to:
50,000 2nd-level connections on LinkedIn
1000+ Wavemakers alumni and community members
* Eligibility requirements apply.
Is Wavemakers Really Free?
Yes, Wavemakers is supported by the Government of Canada through the Innovative Work-Integrated Learning Program, making it completely free for eligible students to participate.
What Does the Wavemakers Virtual Campus Look Like?
The Wavemakers Virtual Campus is a fun, immersive virtual reality* space where you can customize your avatar to authentically reflect who you are.
This walkthrough video was created by a Wavemakers alum. Follow her as she explores the campus, customizes her avatar and has some fun!
*No headset required.
Upcoming Cohorts: Applications Now Open
We understand your schedule is demanding, which is why we've designed Wavemakers to be accessible. From anywhere across Canada, you can dive into our immersive virtual reality campus and connect with fellow Wavemakers. Choose a cohort that works best for you.
June 18 – August 13 2025
1 session/week
Wednesdays
Time: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. ET (Quebec/Ontario) / 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. MT (Alberta) / 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. PT (British Columbia)
July 10 – August 7, 2025
2 sessions/week
Tuesdays & Thursdays
Time: 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. ET (Quebec/Ontario) / 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. MT (Alberta) / 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. PT (British Columbia)
“Deloitte was at the Wavemakers Career Fair. I had never thought about applying until talking to the recruiter at the event. 2 months later I got the job at Deloitte.”
Isabelle Michels, Wavemakers alum
Still have questions? Visit our FAQ for more information on what is work-integrated learning and eligibility criteria for Wavemakers.
“At the Wavemakers Career Fair, I spoke to professionals and recruiters from a whole bunch of different companies. That was definitely my favourite part. I actually got two interviews for internships through that.“
Mya Walz, Wavemakers alum
What Happens Once I Apply?
Step 1
Apply to the program & select the cohort that works best for you
Step 2
You will receive immediate confirmation if you are eligible and accepted to the program.
Step 3
Once accepted, download the Wavemakers Virtual Campus
Step 4
Create your unique avatar!
Step 5
Your first session: get to know the campus and the people in your cohort
Differentiate yourself with in-demand skills
Leveraging cutting-edge technologies and future-proof capabilities, Wavemakers graduates stand out to employers because they are:
Capable – Experienced with applying the most sought after capabilities. Wavemakers graduates are prepared to succeed and thrive in the future of work.
Confident –Confidently building their future with established professional networks, deep practical experience applying future proof capabilities, and a sense of agency to shape the future.
Curious – Filled with an active desire to learn, asking the questions that lead to deeper insights, bringing diverse perspectives and an understanding of implications and impact.
Caring Community – Motivated to build a better future, Wavemakers lead from their values; prioritizing equity, sustainability, and respect for people, planet, and prosperity for all.
