Laurentian Leadership Centre of Trinity Western University

TWU Law in Ottawa students visited the Canadian Intellectual Property Office / Office de la propriété intellectuelle du Canada (CIPO) in Gatineau, QC, to deepen their understanding of intellectual property in practice.

During the session, students heard from guest speakers who are experts in the field, gaining insight into the role of intellectual property within Canada’s legal and innovation landscape. They also had the opportunity to engage with questions grounded in real-world applications of their studies.

We are grateful to the CIPO team for taking the time to invest in our students - sharing their expertise and providing a valuable learning experience that connects legal theory with practice.

We were pleased to visit Global Affairs Canada | Affaires mondiales Canada (GAC) for a conversation with Austin Jean and Karianne Larocque, exploring the complexities of Canada’s crisis communications in the context of global events.

Through this discussion, TWU Law in Ottawa students gained insight into how responses are developed and communicated during times of uncertainty, along with the strategic considerations involved in public messaging.

We are grateful for this meaningful learning opportunity and for the time invested in equipping students with practical insight into public service and communication.

This year, TWU Law in Ottawa students attended Question Period in the Parliament of Canada, gaining firsthand insight into the parliamentary process and the work of the House of Commons of Canada Chambre des communes du Canada.

Following Question Period, the group met with MP Bob Zimmer, who welcomed them to West Block and engaged in a thoughtful discussion on Parliament, public service, and the day-to-day work on the Hill, while also responding to students’ questions on Canada’s parliamentary system and current national issues.

As part of the Laurentian Leadership Centre experience, opportunities like this continue to connect classroom learning with practical exposure to Canada’s legal and political institutions.

It was a pleasure to welcome MP Jake Sawatzky to the Laurentian Leadership Centre for a conversation with our Law in Ottawa students.

He shared reflections on his path to public office, his first year as a Member of Parliament, and the responsibilities of leadership and public service on Parliament Hill. Students contributed with considered questions, linking the discussion to practical legislative work and the broader issues shaping public life in Canada.

We value opportunities that allow students to hear directly from elected officials and gain insight into careers in law, politics, and public service in Canada.

Meet Gabrielle Goh (BA International Studies), serving as a Parliamentary Intern at the House of Commons this term. Gabrielle joined the LLC to gain valuable internship experience and explore how international studies connects to real-world public service.

In her role, she is immersed in the day-to-day work of Parliament, building practical insight and professional skills. Outside of the Hill, Gabrielle enjoys reading and staying active through pilates.

Want to see what your future could look like? Explore the LLC.

During the semester, LLC students visited the Supreme Court of Canada to observe a live hearing as part of their Law, Public Policy, and Cultural Change course.

Students sat in on a significant constitutional case examining Quebec’s Bill 21 and the use of the notwithstanding clause, raising important questions about religious freedom, government authority, and the interpretation of the Canadian Charter.

Experiencing the Court in session offers a unique opportunity to see how legal arguments, public policy, and cultural questions come together at the highest level in Canada.

Moments like this reflect the LLC experience, where students engage Canada’s key institutions firsthand and thoughtfully explore the intersection of law, policy, and public life.

Meet Yeshua Silwamba (BA Political Studies), working on Parliament Hill this term. Yeshua came to the LLC to gain hands-on experience in politics and better understand how public life operates in practice. Through his role in an MP’s office, he is building practical skills while contributing to the day-to-day work on the Hill.

Yeshua is bilingual and brings strong communication skills to his work. Outside of his internship, he enjoys reading, writing, watching Korean dramas, and staying active through a variety of sports.

Explore the program to learn more through a link in bio.

Meet Nina Ariola (BA Political Studies), interning in a Member of Parliament’s office this term. Nina came to the LLC to apply what she’s learned in school to real-world experience on Parliament Hill. In her role, she drafts correspondence, conducts policy research, assists with speechwriting, and manages constituent data. Having lived in three different countries, she brings a global perspective to her work. When she’s not on the Hill, she enjoys reading, playing instruments, photography, and The Sims.

Curious how your academic journey could lead you to Ottawa? Link in bio.

How should Christians respond in an age marked by war, political instability, and cultural polarization?

DisCourse: Resilient Faith in a Violent World is a four-week inquiry-based seminar hosted by the Laurentian Leadership Centre, facilitated by Jon Waind, PhD.

Sessions explore:
→ Does Christianity offer any answers to the problem of violence?
→ Can justice be achieved through war?
→ Is nonviolence an option?
→ How, then, should Christians live in an era of heightened violence?

📍 252 Metcalfe St, Ottawa | Tuesdays, March 17 - April 7 · 6:30–9:00 PM EDT
🔖 Enrollment is limited - register via the link in bio.