Become a
PRO Ambassador
Are you a post-secondary student? Are you looking to advance your career? Do you want to make a difference in the parks and recreation sector?
Apply to become a PRO Ambassador!
We're excited to announce the launch of our brand-new PRO Ambassador Program!
Running as a pilot project for the 2025/2026 academic year, the PRO Ambassador Program gives parks and recreation post-secondary students the opportunity to connect with peers, network with top parks and recreation leaders, and support innovative projects!
Who Are PRO Ambassadors?
PRO Ambassadors are the student voice for PRO. Ambassadors are a team of post-secondary students from across Ontario who elevate our organization and promote careers in parks and recreation.
PRO Ambassadors can expect to:
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Attend virtual meetings with PRO staff and fellow Ambassadors.
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Deliver presentations about PRO and careers in the parks and recreation sector.
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Support research initiatives about parks and recreation education in Ontario.
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Stay up-to-date on all things PRO.
PRO Ambassador Perks
In addition to gaining knowledge and skills in networking, leadership, and industry research, PRO Ambassadors will also receive:
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FREE on-demand HIGH FIVE® training!
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All Ambassadors will be eligible to take 1 FREE on-demand HIGH FIVE® training. This training is an industry standard in the parks and recreation sector.
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FREE PRO membership 1-year post-graduation!
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All Ambassadors will receive a free PRO membership 1-year post-graduation where they will get access to all membership perks, including JobMart, webinars, online courses, and more!
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Networking and mentorship opportunities!
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All Ambassadors will have the opportunity to connect with senior leaders in the parks and recreation sector to gain tips on career pathways, professional development opportunities, and landing their dream job!
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PRO seeks applicants who embrace our values of equity, anti-racism, and inclusion. We encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as Indigenous peoples (e.g., First Nations, Metis, Inuit/Inuk), Black, racialized, people with disabilities, women and/or 2SLGBTQ+.
Applications to become a PRO Ambassador for the 2025/2026 academic year are now closed. All applicants will be contacted by the end of July.
Have questions? Please contact us for more information.
Meet our 2025/26 PRO Ambassadors
We received a high volume of thoughtful and passionate applications from students across Ontario. After careful consideration, we are very pleased to announce our 2025/26 PRO Ambassador Team! We can't wait to see the exciting initiatives these future leaders have in store to move our sector forward!
Abduldayyan
Conestoga College
Abduldayyan is a second year student in Recreation and Sport Administration at Conestoga College. As someone with a passion for staying active, amplifying the voices of young people, and community connection, pursuing studies in recreation was a natural calling. Working as a Youth Drop-In Coordinator for the City of Kitchener, Abduldayyan is already flexing his skills and knowledge as a future change maker in sport and recreation. In his spare time, you can find Abduldayyan playing basketball, hiking, listening to Michael Jackson, and enjoying funnel cake!
Kennedy
University of Waterloo
Kennedy is a first year Master's student in Recreation and Leisure Studies at the University of Waterloo. Growing up in the vibrant and fast-paced environment of Hong Kong shaped Kennedy's appreciation for the outdoors and passion for shared experiences. These early experiences taught Kennedy the value of building relationships through meaningful activities and public events. Having recently completed her undergraduate degree in Recreation and Leisure studies from the University of Waterloo, Kennedy is eager to continue her studies as a graduate student. Kennedy's academic journey is fueled by a desire to better understand how recreation, planning, and community development intersect. Outside of school, Kennedy works with the City of Port Colborne as an Event Planner. Kennedy's goal is to continue fostering vibrant communities by designing spaces and programs that encourage connection, well-being, and a sense of belonging.
Bryn
Brock University
Bryn is a fourth year student in Recreation and Leisure Studies at Brock University. With an academic focus in community recreation, Bryn has developed a strong passion for creating inclusive and accessible recreation opportunities for all individuals. Beyond the classroom, Bryn is actively involved in several recreation pursuits. As the co-founder of the Brock Outdoors Club, Bryn has helped to create opportunities for students to connect through nature and adventure. In his spare time, Bryn participates in various intramural leagues and individual sports - activities that fuel his passion for active living, community, connection, and overall well-being.
Kimberly
Canadore College
Kimberly is a second year student in Recreation and Leisure Services at Canadore College. From a young age, recreation has been a central focus of Kimberly's life. From swimming, hiking, to playing competitive outdoor field and indoor box lacrosse for 10 years, sport and recreation fostered Kimberly's passion for community engagement. Kimberly already has over 6 years of experience working in the recreation sector with the City of Hamilton. Kimberly has worked as a Recreation Assistant, Advanced Skills Instructor, Youth Facilitator, and Program/Facility Monitor. In the future, Kimberly hopes to work full-time in municipal recreation, where she can play a greater role in influencing community recreation program offerings and services. In her spare time, Kimberly enjoys going to concerts, hiking, and hanging out with friends and family.
Dani
Durham College
Dani is a mature, second year student in Recreation and Leisure Services at Durham College. Dani is an Honours graduate of Trent University's Business Administration program. After completing this degree, Dani discovered a calling for bringing joy to others and building community. Pursuing studies in recreation and leisure was an obvious next step. Studying at Durham College has enlightened Dani to how the recreation sector is intertwined with our health, well-being, and everyday lives - an insight they hope to highlight as an Ambassador. Outside of studies, you can find Dani doing something creative, learning a new skill, or taking part in their favourite sport - axe throwing!
Jaykob
Brock University
Jaykob is a second year student in Outdoor Recreation at Brock University. As someone with a passion for recreation, leadership, and building strong communities, Jaykob has already pursued many professional roles in the parks and recreation sector. Jaykob currently works as an Aquatic and Deck Supervisor and Leadership Conductor at numerous aquatics departments. Through these roles, Jaykob has gained valuable experience leading teams, managing programs, and ensuring everyone has a safe and positive experience. As a Summer Camp Supervisor, Jaykob prioritized creating fun, engaging, and safe spaces for people of all ages. Outside of studies and professional pursuits, you can find Jaykob spending time outdoors and reconnecting with nature. Some of his favourite hobbies include camping, paddling, and hiking!
Natasha
Georgian College
Natasha is a second year student in Recreation and Leisure services at Georgian College. Natasha has always loved being active, working with people, and finding ways to make life more meaningful through recreation. After earning a diploma in Development Service Work, she spent 12 years in a school setting working with students with special needs, helping coach, organizing fundraisers, and being on the school mental health team. Now enrolled in Recreation and Leisure Services, Natasha is excited to combine her education background with her passion for event planning, program development, and inclusive recreation opportunities. Outside of school and work, you can find Natasha spending time outside - especially near water - and exploring new activities with her fiancé, dogs, chickens, and ducks!
PRO Ambassador Program FAQs
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What is Parks and Recreation Ontario (PRO)?Parks and Recreation Ontario (PRO) is a non-profit association with over 7,000 members from across the province, including post-secondary students, municipal staff, community agencies, and independent operators. Collectively, our members provide parks and recreation services to over 85% of Ontario’s population. PRO champions the health, social, economic, and environmental benefits of parks and recreation through evidence-based practices, advocacy, and collaborative crosssectoral partnerships. Our work includes policy, research, education, training, and professional development opportunities, as well as our flagship quality standards program, HIGH FIVE®. We envision a future for Ontario where every person has equitable access to vibrant communities, sustainable environments, and personal health.
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Who can join PRO?Anyone can become a PRO member! Our members come from a wide range of backgrounds including recreation, parks, fitness, sport, facilities, the environmental sector, aquatics, therapeutic recreation, camping, and arts and culture.
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What are the membership fees?Membership fees vary depending on your membership category. Please refer to our Become A Member page for the latest fees.
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Can I change my PRO membership plan?Yes! It’s our pleasure to change your membership plan at any time. Please reach out to pro@prontario.org for support and a member of our team will be pleased to assist you.
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When does my PRO membership expire?PRO membership is valid for the calendar year. We will reach out to you in advance of expiration to ensure a smooth renewal process.
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What is your cancellation and refund policy?PRO membership is non-refundable and non-transferable.
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What does my PRO membership support?We offer essential support and services for parks and recreation professionals. Our work focuses on building educational pathways and mobilizing knowledge through quality assurance, education, and training programs. Additionally, we provide advocacy leadership, ensuring your voice is heard at the highest levels of government.
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Where do I login to manage my membership?On our new membership platform, each organization has an account administrator who will log in to the member portal to update all the organization's membership information. Reach out to your account administrator if you need to be added to your organization's membership list. Account administrators also have access to membership invoices, payment receipts and are able to post jobs. If you'd like to become a member, contact us at prontario.org, and we'll be happy to answer all your questions.
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Where can I access Job Mart?Great news - you don't need to log into the website to access all the new job postings! Job Mart is sent by email weekly directly to our members. If you're not receiving your weekly Job Mart email, please ask your account administrator to make sure you're included in your organization's member list. You may reach out to pro@prontario.org if you'd like to become a member and join the weekly Job Mart mail list. Let us know if you'd like to hear more how you can advertise your jobs with Job Mart!
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I need help with my PRO membership. How can I contact support?We are here to serve you. Please reach out to pro@prontario.org for support and a member of our team will be pleased to assist you.