Why was Shift21 created?
In the 21st century, there is an increasing need for true global citizens, because the world is changing fast, and the challenges are constantly morphing and expanding. To develop global citizens, there is a need for a new type of education and a new kind of conversation. What does it mean to be a global citizen? What things are fearful about that? What is exciting about that? We need minds that can be creative, open, flexible, and these kinds of minds have to be cultivated by spaces that can allow that to happen. Delivering knowledge simply does not cultivate intelligence. It doesn't fully support curiosity. It doesn't cultivate genuine wisdom! And we are at a point in our culture where we must see this. You can say that Shift21 is experimenting with the science of wisdom, creativity, and openness. Our lives are really so complex. The mind has to be in a constant state of flexibility, because it's become too painful to live rigidly anymore.

How many people will be accepted into the program?
A group of twenty students, ages 18-25, will unite at Windhorse Farm at the the onset of program to get aquainted, meet their teachers and program leaders and engage in the initial 6-weeks in Nova Scotia.

Does Shift21 have any religious or political affiliation?
No, we are unaffiliated with any religion or sect. In fact, we are very inclusive - we respect and accommodate people's religions and belief systems. We encourage people to be as open as they want with their own belief system - the program is not about changing you or what you believe in.

What will my classmates be like?
We know as little about this as you do! They're probably going to be people who were inspired to go through the intensive application process, which is not an easy application; we can't accept everyone. They will be people like you who are passionate about change, passionate about life, passionate about discovery, and want to understand their life mission. They will be people who have followed a similar calling as you have; who want to appreciate the earth, their community, and themselves, and they're coming to get tools and skills and to create an international network of people who are as passionate as you are and with whom they can do great things together.

Does Shift21 promote any particular philosophy?
Shift21 supports any philosophy that encourages people to connect with themselves, each other, and the environment in an honest, meaningful, and productive way.

What kind of job can I get after taking this program?
A great aspect of Shift21 is that it gives you enough time to really understand what you want to be and do in your life. You get to make that happen for yourself. You don't have to start university and then realize what you're studying isn't really what you want. We believe that if you are committed to the program and committed to your own life mission, any door will be opened. When you really know what you want to do or be in your life, it's just a matter of time for it to become a reality. We really believe this. This program will give you the ability to seek out whatever your dream job may be.

Will there be homework and reading?
Yes, there will be. We don't call it "homework" because everything we do is part of the program - including evenings and free-time. The work will be primarily self-study, inquiry, small group work. It's Challenging but in a fun way. You get to explore and expand. It's going to be a lot of hands-on and experiential learning. The "homework" is simply a means of keeping your engagement constant and on-going. The program is 24/7; it doesn't stop at 6 o'clock.

Do I need to buy any books or supplies? What do I need to bring?
We will let you know after you complete the first step of application if you need to bring any materials. We supply all the materials needed for the program, and if there is anything extra you will be notified in advance of the program.

I have special needs. Can I be accommodated?
The facilities at Windhorse farm are built to accommodate those with physical disabilities, although there will be elements of the program that are out-of-doors, walking in nature, etc. We can accommodate certain situations but you will need to get in touch with us directly and together we can explore possibilities and adaptability on an individual basis. In general the Shift21 program is not suitable for those with certain mental health issues. but again, we highly recommend discussing individual situations with program leaders.

What about special dietary needs?
As part of the program we have two chefs on board who have many years of experience in many kinds of needs from vegan to raw to vegetarian to gluten-free. Anything can be accomodated.

Can I live off-campus?
Because the training and participation of Shift21 is quite engaging and demanding, it will require your availablility on campus at all times. Each student will develop their own place in the community and their presence will become an element of the program for everyone else. Departures from campus are not encouraged but can be arranged through a facililtator based on individual needs.

What are sleeping and living arrangements like? (i.e co-ed or gender separate)
While in Nova Scotia, students will be staying at Juniper Lodge, the premier group retreat facility at Windhorse Farm. The lodge includes solar hot water heating on all floors, single and shared bedrooms, three individual kitchen/dining rooms, program kitchen and dining room, three sitting rooms, library, the "great room" with huge kachelofen, meeting rooms, a beautiful meditation hall and forest walking trails.

Windhorse Farm sets the highest standards for program accommodations. Whether at Windhorse Farm or another international program site, accommodations will more than meet your basic needs and will be both comfortable and nurturing.

Faculty will be living in a seperate building at Windhorse but there will be at least one facilitator living in residence with students at all times.

Can I buy my own food and do my own cooking?
Partially yes. Part of the program is the food and the holistic health aspect of it, but you are welcome to bring extra food, things that you need, and your own snacks - whatever you need to make you feel comfortable. That being said, it is an important element of the program that everyone eats together as a group three times a day, learning in the kitchen, and exposing ourselves to a new kind of relationship to food.

What kinds of amenities and services are nearby?
Windhorse farm is a ten minute drive to the town of Bridgewater, a city of about 9,000 people, which has a shopping center, hospital, grocery stores, and anything you would need during your stay at Windhorse.

What financial assistance is available to help me take the program?
Please refere to the Financial Assistance page for more details.