From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Join us in Halifax, June 18-19, 2025, for two days of transformative discussions, collaboration, and action. Celebrating 50 years of solidarity & global cooperation, this year’s symposium will bring together changemakers to reimagine international development. June 18 + 19, 2025 Halifax, NS & Virtually Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary's University Symposium PhotoVoices Across the globe, powerful and well-resourced countries are pulling back on their commitments to Overseas Development Assistance (ODA). These decisions create real uncertainty for communities and organizations working to advance global solidarity. At a time when foreign aid remains essential to addressing urgent global challenges, this retreat signals the need for renewed dialogue, collaboration, and action. As ACIC marks its 50th anniversary, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment. The landscape of international cooperation is shifting rapidly. Political polarization, funding cuts, and changing global power dynamics are testing the foundations of solidarity and development work. These shifts call for new approaches that centre justice, equity, and local leadership. This year’s Symposium invites us to reflect, reconnect, and reimagine the future of global cooperation. Together, we’ll ask: What role does foreign aid continue to play in building more equitable, connected communities? How can we sustain and diversify resources in the face of political and economic uncertainty? What does it take to build partnerships rooted in long-term, community-led solutions? How can we learn from past movements and transitions to navigate today’s challenges with clarity and purpose? The Symposium will bring together current and past ACIC members—those who have helped build just, equitable communities across the globe—alongside civil society leaders, policymakers, private sector stakeholders, and youth. Together, we will examine how international cooperation has evolved over the decades, and how we can move forward with hope, purpose, and a shared commitment to equity and justice. Education remains central to this conversation, both as a catalyst for peace and security and as a tool for equipping communities with the knowledge to engage in global development efforts. From grassroots activism to institutional advocacy, from Southern-led partnerships to shifts in donor landscapes, this Symposium will highlight pathways to action, ensuring that hope remains the foundation for international cooperation in the decades ahead. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to global solidarity and the transformative power of partnership. In times of uncertainty, we look back to move forward, learning from history to build a more just, resilient, and interconnected future. Schedule Speakers Our Speakers and Presenters. This year’s Symposium will feature a dynamic lineup of speakers from across the Atlantic region, Canada, and the globe, bringing together voices from grassroots movements, civil society organizations, academia, and international cooperation networks. Their lived experiences and insights will ground our discussions in the realities of today’s challenges and the possibilities for collective action. To learn more about our speakers and presenters, click on the images below: Ambassador Lilly Nicholls (Retd.) Former Canadian Ambassador Shelly Whitman Executive Director, Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security Wayn Hamilton Board Member, Connecting To Africa Heather McPherson NDP MP, Edmonton-Strathcona Janice Hamilton Executive Director, Manitoba Council for International Cooperation Bright Kwame Fiaga Founder and President of the International Council for Immigration, Entrepreneurship and Employment (ICIEE) Ashley Rerrie Program Officer at the Equality Fund Paul Farran Director of Policy and Advocacy at Cooperation Canada Samuel Quansah Executive Director, Algo Peers Elder Joe Michael Pipe Carrier and a Sacred Fire Keeper Vicky Yee Executive Director, Women's Fund Fiji Eileen Alma Executive Director at Coady Institute, St. Francis Xavier University Andrew Smith Director General, Pan-African Affairs at Global Affairs Canada Judyannet Muchiri Policy and Research Officer, Inter-Council Network Kai Audi Programmes Officer, Jinsiangu Kenya DeNel Rehberg Sedo Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at Mount Saint Vincent University María Inés Cuj Chopén General Coordinator, Administrator, and Certified Permaculturist The Mesoamerican Permaculture Institute (IMAP) Jennifer Elms Gender Equality Advisor at Aga Khan Foundation North America Tsigie Haile Founder and director of the Organization for Women in Self- Employment (WISE) Patrik Evelio Mucia Poz Biodiversity Program Coordinator, Seed Bank Administrator, Permaculture Educator The Mesoamerican Permaculture Institute (IMAP) Dr. Arturo Ezquerro-Cañete Maritimes Coordinator, Maritimes-Guatemala Breaking the Silence Network (BTS) David Black Professor of International Development Studies at Dalhousie University Jonathan Langdon Professor and the Canada Research Chair for Sustainability and Social Change Leadership at St Francis Xavier University Max-Prosper Fortuna Deputy Director, le Centre Haitien du Leadership et de l’Excellence (Haitian Centre for Leadership and Excellence) James Parsons Executive Director, Canadian Partnerships Division at Global Affairs Canada Shelagh Savage Lecturer, International Development Studies Department at Dalhousie University Caleigh Wong Veteran Research Partner at the Centre for Social Innovation and Community Engagement in Military Affairs Gabrielle Bardall Assistant Professor, Université Sainte-Anne Kirsten Larson PhD researcher at the Irish Centre for Human Rights (ICHR), University of Galway Timi Idris PhD Student at Dalhousie University Cristina Jerez Fair-Trade Coffee Marketing Coordinator for Breaking the Silence Maritimes-Guatemala Ava Green Political Science Undergraduate Student at Dalhousie University Caroline Scott Masters Student at Dalhousie University Joseph Fitkowski International Youth Internship Program Alumnus Eliza MacLauchlan Restorative Justice Facilitator with the Government of PEI

As Atlantic Canadians, we have a unique opportunity during this federal election to advocate for Canada's continued leadership in international development. In a time of global uncertainty, our region's commitment to global health, economic growth, and humanitarian aid is more important than ever. Let's remind our candidates that Atlantic Canadians care about making a positive impact globally and call on our next government to champion these efforts. Standing Up for Global Cooperation Election 2025 As Atlantic Canadians, we have an important opportunity during this federal election to raise our voices on issues that matter to our region—like Canada’s continued leadership in international development. In a time of global uncertainty, our region's long-standing commitment to global health, economic growth, and humanitarian aid remains as important as ever. By supporting these initiatives, we not only contribute to a better world, but also strengthen our own communities through increased trade, security, and international partnerships. Let’s remind our candidates that Atlantic Canadians care deeply about making a positive global impact, and call on our next government to champion these efforts. Together, we can ensure that a better future starts with us. Call to Action: Join us in ensuring that Atlantic Canada continues to make a positive difference in the world. During this election, let candidates know that you support international development initiatives. Together, we can build a brighter future for all. The Atlantic Council for International Cooperation (ACIC) encourages all Atlantic Canadians to raise their voices in support of protecting Official Development Assistance (ODA) funding from potential cuts. By reaching out to candidates running in your riding and using our pre-built letter tool, you can easily express your commitment to global cooperation and aid. Additionally, we invite you to explore the resources available on our website to learn more about Canada's ODA funding and its impact. Not sure who's running in your riding? Find your candidates here. Resources & Action Cooperation Canada - Canadian International Assistance Fact Sheet The 2025 Canadian International Assistance fact sheet answers frequently asked questions concerning Canadian ODA. Learn More Cooperation Canada - Election 2025: An Open Letter to Leaders Cooperation Canada has sent an open letter to all party leaders emphasizing our members’ commitment to working with them and urging them to propose a clear and strategic vision for Canada’s global engagement. Read Here Results Canada - #ABetterWorld Campaign The 2025 federal election is in full swing. Now is the time for all our voices to be heard – whether you can vote or not – and to tell our local candidates that we want Canada’s next government to have a strong role in tackling the most pressing global challenges. A better world starts with Canada – with your voice. Learn More

ICN Youth Delegation 2025 The Inter-Council Network is proud to work with youth from across Canada in order to ensure that their voices have the opportunity to be heard at the AWID Forum 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand. About Eligibility Criteria Application Process Important Dates About the Program Each year, the Inter-Council Network selects eight delegates (representing the eight provincial and regional councils) to attend multilateral spaces and conventions to meet with policymakers and international changemakers. Over the past few years, the delegates have participated the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The purpose of the current call for applications is to identify young individuals who will be supported by ICN in attending the AWID International Forum, providing them with the opportunity to engage in exceptional interactions at this global gathering of NGOs feminist, women's rights, gender justice. Chosen delegates are expected to take part in and contribute to a range of capacity-building and dialogue sessions before, during, and after AWID. They will also be encouraged to actively participate in and help co-create collective communication and engagement initiatives. Application Process ICN will cover the delegation members' expenses, including travel, accommodation and food, provide support to them before, during, and after the event. Please note that applications will be reviewed by a Selection Committee composed of ICN Youth Delegates alumni, and all applicants can expect to hear back from ICN by October 10, 2024. The criteria used to evaluate applications will be as follows: • Meet all the eligibility criteria mentioned above; • Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of women's rights, gender equality, and social justice; • Show involvement in the international solidarity network and/or a civic movement such as feminist, LGBTQI2S+, anti-racist, Indigenous rights, migrant rights, or environmental movements; • Proficiency in English, French. Important Dates Eligibility Criteria To be eligible, candidates must: • Be between 19 and 29 years old at the start of the 15th AWID Forum, on December 2, 2024; • Have completed the online application form by September 23, 2024, at 5 PM ADT; • Be available to travel between November 26 to December 9, 2024; • Participants must have a valid passport that does not expire 6 months before intended travel; • Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident of Canada; • Comply with the health regulations in effect in Canada and Thailand at the time of travel. Application Details Apply By: October 10, 2024 Learn More

Join us February 1-7, 2026 to celebrate International Development Week! International Development Week February 1 - 7, 2026 Join us in celebrating International Development Week (IDW) 2026, as we come together from coast to coast to coast to shine a spotlight on Canadian international development efforts. This year's theme is Prosperity through Partnership. About International Development Week International Development Week (IDW) is an annual initiative that takes place during the first full week of February. Since 1991, IDW has brought together civil society organizations, schools, businesses, government agencies, and the general public to highlight Canadian contributions to international development initiatives from coast to coast to coast and overseas. This year’s International Development Week (#IDW2026) will take place from February 1 to 7 and will be celebrated by  ACIC, Global Affairs Canada, Canadian development organizations, and Canadians with events and activities across Atlantic Canada and the country . Events List ACIC and our partners will be hosting IDW themed events throughout the week. Stay tuned for information about events in your region. No events at the moment Books Without Borders: Stories of Solidarity & Justice Check out our IDW reading list! Featuring books and stories spanning geographies, languages, and genres, there’s something to read for each of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, offering new perspectives on global issues and the people and communities shaping change around the world.

The Atlantic Council for International Cooperation is a coalition of individuals, organizations and institutions working in the Atlantic region to build and model just, equitable and sustainable communities, locally and globally. P jila'si | Welcome What We Do We are a coalition of individuals, organizations, and institutions working in the Atlantic region, committed to achieving peaceful, just and sustainable communities, locally and globally. Learn More Strengthening members and partners We work to strengthen the effectiveness of our members and partners by providing them with access to resources and opportunities, creating spaces for reflection, dialogue and capacity building. Supporting youth leadership We support youth leadership in international cooperation by giving youth the opportunity to act as global citizens, engaging them with peers, connecting them to resources and opportunities, and developing knowledge sharing and for-youth by-youth programming. Amplifying voice and reach We amplify the influence of our members, youth, partners and the Atlantic Canadian international cooperation sector by enabling their representing and advocating for them in international and national forums, fostering meaningful conversations and dialogue to influence change. Current Opportunities Public Engagement Join us for ACIC’s Safer Spaces Program 2026, a three-part learning series bringing together members and youth as global actors navigating systems shaped by colonialism, racism, and unequal power. Registration is now open! Learn More Partners, Youth ACIC is looking for partners to help implement our 2026 PhotoVoices program! Through the program, Atlantic Canadian youth and youth from the international community use photos to share their stories, build skills, explore the Sustainable Development Goals, learn from experts in the field, and so much more. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis Learn More Youth ACIC is currently seeking to fill five Conference Leader positions to join us for our Global Citizenship Youth Conference (July 10 - 13, 2026) April 27, 2026 Learn More

New Brunswick Members Connect with our New Brunswick Members, learn more about how they are making the world a more just, equitable and sustainable world. If you are from New Brunswick, and would like to join our membership, or learn about a member, reach out to Membership Manager, Raushni Abraham at Raushni@acic-caci.org . Organizational Members Ampersand Collaborations Perluete Ampersand Collaborations Perluète, based in New Brunswick, is a creative incubator for social, cultural, and policy innovation. Through collaborative arts and community development programming, they work across sectors and borders, engaging professionals and emerging voices alike. With a presence on five continents, their work is rooted in non-partisan service, learning, and responsive collaboration, guided by the principle: “we go where we are called.” We are Ampersand. The ampersand (&) is a stand alone character whose purpose is to connect. It is a symbol for “and per se, and”. Unlike most letters, its single use carries a meaning all on its own; however, its purpose is lost without being used to bring things together. Such is the mission of Ampersand Collaborations Perluète. To bring together elements that are better for their union; and, to capture evocative narrative and imagery to rigorously convey these interventions. To this end, the organization’s mandate is to service non-partisan interdisciplinary collaboration that address complex social problems and interpret their impact. Learn More Black Business and Professional Network NB BBPN Inc. is a community of black businesses and professionals in New Brunswick. BBPN aims to find, develop, provide opportunities, and guide the black talent pool to excel in New Brunswick. In pursuing a better future for black people, BBPN consciously seeks to transform various challenges and obstacles into opportunities. Learn More Community Forests International Community Forests International works in Canada and Zanzibar to protect and restore forests, help communities adapt to climate change, build economic prosperity, and champion social equality. Community Forests International is committed more than ever to centring not only forests but also climate justice in their vision, mission, and actions — understanding that by acting with justice people will be the restorative force that the world needs. Learn More Mount Allison University Mount Allison has been ranked Canada’s #1 undergraduate university by Maclean’s magazine more times than any other university. The University offers a flexible liberal arts and sciences education that prepares students for any career path and to enter into professional and graduate programs. Mount Allison prides itself on providing a high-quality academic experience, combined with a variety of hands-on learning opportunities in a close-knit community. The University has been ranked the top undergraduate university in Canada by Maclean’s magazine’s annual University Rankings more times than any other university. Mount Allison prides itself on providing a high-quality academic experience through degrees, programs, and certificates. A high percentage of Mount Allison’s graduating students move on to graduate programs or professional schools such as law and medicine. Learn More Pure Gold Foundation Pure Gold Foundation works to empower and equip young people to develop positive values, have a growth mindset, and become well-grounded in their identity through transformative training. The organization envisions a future where young individuals confidently embrace their true potential, contributing positively to society while embracing their diverse backgrounds and identities. Learn More University of New Brunswick - School of Leadership Studies (Renaissance College) Founded in 2000, Renaissance College is UNB’s School of Interdisciplinary Leadership Studies and the first initiative of its kind in Canada. It remains at the forefront of leadership education in the country. They combine innovative teaching methods, rigorous academic content and experiential learning opportunities in small classes that together create a unique educational experience. Learn More Individual Members Rebekah Sears Rebekah (Bekah) Sears has over 15 years of experience in international development, peacebuilding, and advocacy, having worked in Canada, Colombia, and Rwanda with organizations like Mennonite Central Committee and the Canadian Mental Health Association. Based in Fredericton, she brings a deep commitment to justice, community partnership, and mental health support in the nonprofit sector. Bekah is especially passionate about building sustainable, inclusive systems through policy and grassroots engagement. Fauzia Matyas-Jamal Fauzia Matyas-Jamal recently relocated to Fredericton and is seeking to engage with local and global development networks. Drawn to ACIC’s values of justice and sustainability, she brings interest and initiative to committee work, particularly in governance and symposium planning. Her proactive approach reflects a commitment to meaningful community connection and collaborative change. Austin I.P. O'Neill Austin I.P. O’Neill is a second-year student at the University of New Brunswick’s School of Leadership Studies, minoring in Law in Society. A passionate advocate for leadership, law, and public service, he brings experience in student governance, legal aid, and community volunteering. Austin is committed to fostering equity and authentic leadership in Atlantic Canada and is eager to contribute to ACIC’s mission through collaborative action and dialogue. Kaitlyn Keleher Kaitlyn is a recent graduate of Mount Allison University, with a degree in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE). Kaitlyn has worked for the federal and provincial governments and remains committed to active global citizenship and the promotion of the Atlantic provinces. Kaitlyn seeks to continue her career in politics and justice, with a focus on international policy. Madison O'Connor Madison is currently a Career Resource Centre Coordinator, providing pre-employment services to high school students and community members. Madison holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Criminology and minors in Communications & Public Policy, Sociology, and Human Rights from St. Thomas University Seiku Diakite Seiku is a social work student at St. Thomas University with a keen interest in International Development. Seiku aims to address systemic barriers affecting vulnerable populations in society, create awareness on how International social work can promote social justice and advocate for structural changes in society. Darlene Dorion An educator, a chartered mediator, a sustainable world peace activist, Darlene Doiron specialises in interpersonal workplace and community based conflict. She is best known for her longstanding peace work and dedication to creating a more positive and harmonious province of New Brunswick.

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Paul Farran Director of Policy and Advocacy Cooperation Canada About Paul Paul Farran is the Director of Policy and Advocacy at Cooperation Canada, where he leads efforts to advance an impactful international cooperation agenda. He has deep experience in government, NGOs, multilateral organizations, and academia—driving impact on political, development, and humanitarian fronts. He’s worked in crisis and development contexts across Africa and Asia, bringing both global insight and field-tested expertise. A natural collaborator, Paul works to unite diverse stakeholders to solve complex, high-stakes challenges. His core experience span diplomatic engagement, partnership building, strategic planning, and program execution. He’s developed hands on experience in advancing peacebuilding, climate action, and development effectiveness, while advising high level leaders.

PhotoVoices Stories are powerful: they weave people and experiences together and shape how we see the world. Knowing the impact and value of a well-told story, ACIC’s PhotoVoices Program empowers youth to share the narratives they want to tell through photos.  Through the program,  Atlantic Canadian youth and youth from the Global South use photos to share their stories, build skills, explore the Sustainable Development Goals, learn from experts in the field, and so much more. ACIC's PhotoVoices Program enables youth to share the narratives they want to tell through photos, and connects youth from Atlantic Canada and the Global South in an experience of storytelling, skills building, providing them a space to explore social justice, while learning from experts in the field. To apply for the next iteration of our PhotoVoices Program, click here . If you are an organization interested in partnering with us, click here . Dream Africa (2025) This year’s cohort, Dream Africa, brought together young people from Ghana and Atlantic Canada to reflect on the experiences of Black and African diaspora youth—amplifying voices that challenge inequality and celebrate resilience, creativity, and connection. In partnership with Connecting To Africa and Algo Peers . View Gallery You, Me, and the SDGs (IDW 2025) Youth from Maple Ridge Elementary explore the SDGs through photography, sharing their visions for a better world. View Gallery PhotoVoices 2024 Twenty-two youth from Atlantic Canada and Cameroon unite to share the lived realities in their communities. In partnership with ACIC and Local Youth Corner Cameroon . View Gallery PhotoVoices 2023 Explore experiences, perspectives, and communities near and far. A cross-continental collaboration between 30 young women from Atlantic Canada, Malawi, and Nigeria. In partnership with ACIC, GENET (Malawi), and Mcrissar Foundation (Nigeria). View Gallery PhotoVoices 2022 Explore experiences, perspectives, and communities near and far. A collaboration between youth recruited by ACIC, Connecting the Dots Foundation (Nigeria), Nova Scotia Gambia Association (The Gambia). View Gallery Atlantic Youth Weavers (AYW) Photovoice Project Explore experiences, perspectives, and communities near and far. The AYW Photovoice Project was a joint initiative by Inspiring Communities , WeavEast , and the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation. Financial support was additionally provided by The McConnell Foundation and Global Affairs Canada . View Gallery

Symposium Youth Stream 2023 As part of the ACIC Symposium Cost of Change: Championing Social Justice, Health, and Well-Being for All, ACIC is seeking aspiring professionals (aged 18-29) to participate in the Symposium’s Youth Stream. The Youth Stream provides an opportunity for participants to connect with their peers and professionals working in the field of International Cooperation, engage in networking opportunities, as well as learn about topics related to the symposium theme, all while reflecting on how this work impacts communities at the local and global levels. About Eligibility Criteria Application Process Important Dates About the Program As part of the ACIC Symposium Cost of Change: Championing Social Justice, Health, and Well-Being for All , ACIC is seeking aspiring professionals (aged 18-29) to participate in the Symposium’s Youth Stream. The Youth Stream provides an opportunity for participants to connect with their peers and professionals working in the field of International Cooperation, engage in networking opportunities, as well as learn about topics related to the symposium theme, all while reflecting on how this work impacts communities at the local and global levels. This year's symposium will explore the web of factors that shape our society, and the role money and resources play in both creating disparities and elevating poverty in the world. The Symposium will delve into the complex dynamics of how individuals and organizations can fund change while championing equity, and exploring the global and local shifts necessary to create a more inclusive and sustainable future for all. As an aspiring professional, you will: Engage with peers and experienced professionals working in International Cooperation Learn about careers, locally and internationally, that contribute to better communities Combine theory and action to strengthen your understanding of praxis in relation to International Cooperation Build your resume and gain transferable skills for future careers Program Components A 1-hour session before the Symposium where participants can connect with other members of the youth stream Attend the ACIC Symposium, in person, on October 27 & 28 on Charlottetown, PEI Engage with ACIC members, and professionals to explore the ins and outs of the international cooperation sector A 1-hour debrief meeting for youth to reflect on their experience of the Symposium, share what they learned, and discuss the next steps for applying those learnings to their professional ambitions Complete a reflective assignment on their experience at the symposium Please Note: All expenses (food, transportation, accommodation) will be covered by ACIC for four youth, one from each Atlantic province, to attend the Symposium in person Application Process Interested youth are encouraged to apply by October 15, 2023 (11:59 PM) by filling out the form at this link. Important Dates Apply by October 15, 2023 Symposium will be held in Charlottetown, PE, on October 27 & 28 Eligibility Criteria Be between the ages of 18-29 Be living in Atlantic Canada Be available to attend the Symposium in person (October 27 & 28) ACIC recognizes that youth may have class and prior commitments and can provide a letter regarding the delegation that youth can share with teachers/employers if they need to request a change to their regular class or work schedule. Application Details Apply by: October 15, 2023 Learn More

Re-Imagining Development Gathering ACIC’s Re-imagining Development, invites post-secondary students and young professionals in fields of global solidarity/international development to participate in a gathering of the unlearning, co-learning, and re-imagining of ‘international development’. About Eligibility Criteria Application Process Important Dates About the Program In a time where global solitary is more important than ever, join us in exploring alternatives to development that center global AND local solidarity, decolonization, restorative justice, and more. This gathering will serve as an opportunity to learn important skills and knowledge related to practice in global solidarity sectors. To foster a learning environment at the gathering a mix of mediums will be used, including: restorative panels, virtual speakers (to bring in subject matter experts from outside the region), small and large group discussions/workshops, site visits to places of interest related to gathering topics, etc.). Why get involved: Engage with peers and experienced professionals working in fields of global solidarity Learn about alternative frameworks to development that foster communities of solidarity and liberation Combine theory and action to strengthen your understanding of praxis in relation to global solidarity ACIC offers gathering participants access to Linkedin Learning. This provides the opportunity to discover and develop skills through expert-led course videos, in courses on gender equality, climate change, allyship, non-profit management, fundraising, marketing, technology, and more The gathering is free of charge, and food and accommodation are provided. ACIC arranges and covers the expense of all travel for participants Application Process Important details: All meals, travel, and accommodation are provided For more information, contact Jackie at 902.431.2311 or jackie@acic-caci.org The deadline to apply is December 10, 2025 Important Dates Important details: The deadline to apply is December 10, 2025 Gathering dates: January 23-25 Travel dates (if needed): January 22nd and 26th Eligibility Criteria To apply for this program, participants will: Be between the ages of 19-29 Be living in Atlantic Canada Be pursuing a career in local/global solidarity Application Details Apply by: December 10, 2025 Learn More

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Wayn Hamilton Board Member Connecting to Africa About Wayn Wayn was born in what he calls the Republic of Beechville; a small Black community established in the late 1700s on the outskirts of metro Halifax. He attended Dalhousie University and received a Bachelor of Arts in African Studies and a Bachelor of Education with a major in Language Arts. Wayn also has a Master’s in Planning and Development from the University of Guelph’s School of Rural Planning and Development. Wayn has worked and lived in Nigeria, Ghana and Sierra Leone. His overseas assignments focused on organizational and strategic planning as well as program design and resource analysis. While working in West Africa he supported a variety of civil society groups involved in grass roots community development. In November 2005, Wayn was selected to develop a framework and strategic plan for the province of Nova Scotia to address longstanding issues in the Black communities. He created the Office of African Nova Scotian Affairs (ANSA). He led ANSA’s ongoing work in the core business areas of government relations, negotiations, outreach, and communication. He guided the mandate and provided the leadership for community capacity development and relationship building between government and community. He was responsible for the overall planning, coordinating, managing operations and the legislative mandate of ANSA. He stayed on to work at ANSA until the fall of 2022 as the Executive Director. He plays with a percussion ensemble called Drummers From Home and is also a board member for Connecting to Africa (CTA). CTA is a non-profit, pan African group seeking to increase awareness, advocacy and action partnerships with African Nova Scotian organizations and like-minded groups in Africa. Over the years CTA has organized more than 8 Connecting to Africa Learning Projects to West Africa. His inspiration is Dr. Marie Hamilton (his Mom) and anyone with a genuine passion to make positive changes in their life…the life of their community and beyond.

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Arturo Ezquerro-Cañete Maritimes Coordinator Maritimes-Guatemala Breaking the Silence Network (BTS) About Arturo Arturo Ezquerro-Cañete has been the BTS Maritimes Coordinator since 2022, facilitating Maritimes-based advocacy and grassroots organizing in support of Guatemalan partner organizations struggling for political, social and economic justice. With the goal of building solidarity across borders, Dr. Ezquerro-Cañete has facilitated public speaking tours featuring long-term BTS partners, as well as organized a series of field schools and delegations to Guatemala. Dr. Ezquerro-Cañete’s Maritimes-based activism is grounded in his considerable experience researching the politics of natural resource extraction in Latin America. For his doctoral research he studied campesino movement resistance to large-scale soybean agribusiness in Paraguay. He holds a PhD in International Development Studies and has taught at universities across the Maritimes, including Saint Mary’s University, Acadia University, and the University of New Brunswick. He enjoys supervising students and finds it particularly meaningful and rewarding to connect them with BTS through volunteer experiential learning, summer job placements, human rights delegations, and internship opportunities in Guatemala. Arturo also volunteers with the Centre for Migrant Worker Rights Nova Scotia (CMWR NS) and is a former Outreach Coordinator at the Latin American House community centre in London, UK. He currently lives in Halifax (Kjipuktuk) with his partner.