Empowering women to take their seat at the table.

Women’s Municipal Campaign School is a volunteer-led committee that aims to teach women and those from diverse backgrounds how to run for office in the region.

Learn About the 2026 program

Our Story

Learn How to Run was founded to close the gap in local political representation and empower more women and underrepresented voices to step into leadership. The program’s roots in Waterloo Region trace back to 2003, when former Councillor Jane Mitchell attended one of Ontario’s first Women’s Municipal Campaign Schools. Inspired by the experience, she brought the initiative home — with the first Waterloo Region session held on Saturday, November 19, 2005, in the Regional Council Chambers.

Since then, Learn How to Run has trained dozens of candidates, many of whom now serve as councillors, trustees, and mayors. The 2026 program builds on this legacy with an updated curriculum, more mentors, and expanded outreach to support the next generation of local leaders.

Our Mission

To increase representation of women and diverse voices in municipal and school board leadership by providing practical training, mentorship, and support.

Our Values

Equity & Inclusion

Supporting underrepresented voices.

Nonpartisan Education

Focused on civic leadership, not party politics.

Community Impact

Equipping leaders to serve effectively.

Partners & Sponsors

We collaborate with municipalities, advocacy organizations, and local businesses to ensure our candidates have access to resources and networks.