Illustration of various women and gender diverse people with flowers and an orange backgroundWe have been hearing the buzz about WILD and there are just a couple of days left to apply!

WILD is a dynamic union education program designed specifically for Indigenous, Black, and racialized women and non-binary members who are ready to grow their leadership and make an impact in their union and communities.

We have received questions and wanted to provide more information through a Q&A.

Who can apply?
CUPE members in good standing who:

  • Identify as Indigenous, Black, or racialized women or non-binary members
  • Are new to activism or experienced leaders
  • Want to make a difference in their union and community

How do CUPE members apply?
Members can apply online by visiting:
https://cupe.ca/ready-for-wild

When is the deadline to apply?  

  • March 27, 2026

When will applicants hear back?  

  • Applicants will be notified by early May 2026.

Where does the program take place?
WILD is a hybrid program, combined of:

  • Online learning sessions
  • Regional in-person gatherings
  • Mentorship opportunities

CUPE’s WILD program will start with 3 separate Cohorts:
Each Cohort will include a total of 18 participants.

  1. Prairies (Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba)
  2. Atlantic/Maritimes
  3. Ontario

What are the program dates?
The program runs over 10 months (July 2026 – June 2027) and includes:

  • Online orientation (July 2026)
  • In-person week-long sessions (August–October 2026)
  • Additional online and in-person sessions
  • Final session and graduation (May–June 2027)

Who pays for participation covers costs?

  • CUPE Union Education

CUPE Union Education covers costs including:

  • Travel
  • Accommodations
  • Lost wages
  • Meal allowance

We hope that we have answered all your questions. If not, please feel free to reach out to WILD@cupe.ca.