From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Shelly Whitman Executive Director Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security About Shelly Dr. Shelly Whitman has dedicated her career to advocating for children's rights in conflict zones, serving as the Executive Director of the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security since January 2010. Under her leadership, the institute has gained international acclaim for its commitment to preventing the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict. A prominent subject matter expert, Dr. Whitman has played a crucial role in establishing key international agreements and policies for child protection. She is often invited to speak at global forums and provide media commentary on issues surrounding children, peace, and security. Her impactful work includes lobbying for Canada's signing of the Safe Schools Declaration and contributing to the development of NATO's Standard Operating Procedure on Children in Armed Conflict, along with the first Policy on Children for the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Before joining the Dallaire Institute, Dr. Whitman worked on the inter-Congolese dialogue and the OAU Rwanda Genocide Report, while based at the UNICEF HQ in New York. Her academic career includes teaching International Development Studies and Political Science at various universities, where she introduced courses focused on children and armed conflict. Dr. Whitman's efforts have led to the establishment of over 20 memorandums of understanding with countries and institutions worldwide. She has co-authored pivotal documents such as the Vancouver Principles on Peacekeeping and the Prevention of the Recruitment and Use of Child Soldiers, which now has 106 endorsing nations. Her contributions to child protection have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Canadian Progress Club Women of Excellence Award and the Queen’s Jubilee Medal for Meritorious Service to Children and Veterans. With a steadfast commitment to inspiring change and hope for vulnerable populations, Dr. Shelly Whitman continues to lead the charge in advocating for children's rights in conflict zones globally.

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Ambassador Lilly Nicholls (Retd.) Former Canadian Ambassador Government of Canada About Lilly Lilly Nicholls is a retired Canadian diplomat with 30 years of experience whose work spans across six continents and includes leadership roles in government, the UN, civil society, and academia. She has made important contributions to global affairs and international development, with a special focus on global poverty reduction, social justice, and gender equality initiatives. She served as Canada’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh (2022–2024) as well as Canadian Ambassador to Panama (2018–2021). She led the Global Affairs Canada (GAC) Research Team that amalgamated and analyzed the evidence base and consultation results for Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy (FIAP). She is presently a Fellow and Professional in Residence at the University of Ottawa’s School of International Development and Global Studies, where she advised the Dean of Social Studies on the establishment of an International Hub. Dr. Nicholls has a PhD in International Development from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). She has received five Government of Canada Awards of Excellence and was named among the 10 Most Influential Hispanic Canadians in 2022.

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.

Youth Program Archive Youth Advisory Council Learn More ACIC’s Youth Advisory Council will bring together 4 Atlantic Canadian youth, aged 19-25, to ensure youth voices are centered in our youth programming. ACIC has a deep commitment to providing youth programs which reflect the diversity of Atlantic Canadian youth and programs that create opportunities for youth to connect, learn, act, and reflect, on what it means to be active global citizens committed to social justice, community development, and effecting change, both locally and globally, in sustainable ways. Global Citizenship Youth Conference 2025 Learn More Are you between the ages of 15 and 17 and interested in exploring global issues? Join us for the 2025 Global Citizenship Youth Conference! Symposium Youth Stream 2025 Learn More Are you aged 19–29 and living in Atlantic Canada? Interested in global issues, social justice, and international cooperation? Connect with peers and professionals, explore careers in the sector, and gain hands-on experience at ACIC's 2025 Symposium while reflecting on how foreign aid and global solidarity are shifting. All travel, food, and accommodation expenses are covered by ACIC. PhotoVoices 2025 Learn 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. IDW Youth Funding 2025 Learn More To celebrate International Development Week (IDW), ACIC is excited to offer funding for youth (ages 15-30) to host their own events! Re-Imagining Development Gathering 2025 Learn More 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’. Global Citizenship Conference 2024 Learn More The Global Citizenship Youth Conference is a space for youth (aged 15-17) to discuss, learn about and take action on global issues. Hosted by the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation, participants spent three days (July 11-14, 2024) at the Tatamagouche Centre in Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia. Professional Practice Workshop Learn More ACIC Professional Practice Workshop invites post-secondary students in social justice, community development, and international solidarity (or similar fields) to participate in a knowledge and skill development workshop on March, 16 2024. Global Citizenship Certificate 2024 Learn More The first step in changing the world is understanding it. The Global Citizenship Certificate encourages youth to explore connections to their local and international communities and empowers young people to act as effective global citizens. Through virtual workshops, volunteer placement, advocacy projects, and connecting with other youth across the Atlantic, youth will learn and practice being effective global citizens. PhotoVoices 2024 Learn 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. Symposium Youth Stream 2023 Learn More 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. IDW Youth Funding 2024 Learn More To celebrate International Development Week (IDW), ACIC is excited to offer funding for youth (ages 15-30) to host their own events! Events can be around any theme broadly related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but they must take place during the week of February 5th-11th and, of course, meet provincial public health guidelines. PhotoVoices 2023 Learn 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.

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Timi Idris PhD Student Dalhousie University About Timi Timi Idris, is a Ph.D. student in Health at Dalhousie University. Her research is on the wellness of Black Women in Nonprofit organizations. Timi has a B.Sc. in Sociology from the University of Lagos and an M.A. in Criminology from Saint Mary’s University. Her research interests are social problems and how it affects health and wellbeing.

< Back Global Affairs Canada Funds ICN’s LIFT Program with $38.5 Million Inter-Council Network Feb 5, 2025 Global Affairs Canada Funds ICN’s LIFT Program, Significant Impact in Atlantic Region Halifax, Nova Scotia – February 5, 2025 – The Atlantic Council for International Cooperation (ACIC) is pleased to announce that Global Affairs Canada has provided $38.5 million in funding to the Inter-Council Network (ICN) to implement the LIFT program. This funding will support small and medium-sized organizations (SMOs) across Canada, including ACIC's members in the Atlantic region, helping them to continue and expand their impactful global development work. The Honorable Minister Ahmed Hussen made the funding announcement yesterday, during International Development Week (IDW), a week dedicated to raising awareness of global development issues and recognizing the contributions of Canadians in creating positive change around the world. IDW is celebrated annually in February, providing an opportunity to highlight the essential role that Canadian organizations, like those within the ICN and ACIC’s network, play in advancing global development and international cooperation. As a member of the ICN, ACIC is excited about how this funding will directly benefit organizations in the Atlantic region, enabling them to strengthen their development efforts, scale their projects, and continue addressing key global challenges such as poverty, climate change, and gender equality. "We are thrilled that Global Affairs Canada is supporting the ICN’s LIFT program, which will provide essential resources to small and medium-sized organizations across the country," said Jennifer Sloot, Executive Director of ACIC. "As part of the ICN, we are excited to see how this funding will empower our members in the Atlantic region to build on their vital work and create even greater impact in the communities they serve. This is an incredible opportunity for grassroots organizations to grow, collaborate, and make a lasting difference in the Global South." The LIFT program, designed to provide funding to grassroots Canadian NGOs, will allow organizations to scale their international development projects and strengthen their capacity to respond to the most pressing global challenges. ACIC’s members, which focus on sectors like education, health, environment, and human rights, will benefit from this funding to deepen their impact and strengthen local partnerships. In celebration of International Development Week, ACIC is hosting a number of events throughout the week to engage the public, raise awareness of global development issues, and recognize the incredible work of its members. These events will provide opportunities for learning, discussion, and connection among organizations and individuals passionate about making a difference in the world. Through this support, ACIC, in collaboration with the ICN, will continue to facilitate capacity-building, promote knowledge-sharing, and ensure that organizations in the Atlantic region are well-positioned to maximize the impact of this funding. Link to ICN/RCC Press Release For more information about ACIC’s IDW events or the LIFT program, please contact: Mateo Gomez Communications Officer Atlantic Council for International Cooperation (ACIC) Email: mateo@acic-caci.org Website: www.acic-caci.org Previous Next

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Heather McPherson Member of Parliament Edmonton-Strathcona (NDP) About Heather Heather McPherson was elected to represent the riding of Edmonton Strathcona in the House of Commons of Canada in October 2019 and was re-elected to her seat in September 2021, and again in April 2025. Heather is currently the NDP critic for Foreign Affairs and International Development, as well as critic for International Trade, for Seniors, for Heritage (Arts, Culture, and Sport), and for Agriculture. She also currently serves as Caucus Chair for the current NDP caucus, having previously served as both Whip and Deputy Whip for the federal NDP in the House of Commons. Like her time prior to the 2021 election, Heather is the only non-Conservative Member of Parliament in Alberta. Prior to her time in Parliament, Heather spent over 20 years working on sustainable development and international cooperation efforts through the non-profit sector, including 10 years as Executive Director of the Alberta Council for Global Cooperation. Heather has worked closely with the Canadian and international community, focusing on sustainable development, good governance, and human rights. Heather has a master's degree from the University of Alberta in Educational Policy Studies in Theoretical, Cultural, and International Studies in Education, with a focus on incorporating indigenous knowledges in the achievement of sustainable development. Heather lives in Edmonton, Alberta with her partner and two children where she takes full advantage of the close proximity to lakes, forests, and mountains.

Global Citizenship Certificate 2024 The first step in changing the world is understanding it. The Global Citizenship Certificate encourages youth to explore connections to their local and international communities and empowers young people to act as effective global citizens. Through virtual workshops, volunteer placement, advocacy projects, and connecting with other youth across the Atlantic, youth will learn and practice being effective global citizens. About Eligibility Criteria Application Process Important Dates About the Program ACIC's Global Citizenship Certificate program encourages youth to explore connections to their local and international communities and enables them to act as effective global citizens. Through virtual workshops, volunteer placement, advocacy projects, and connecting with other youth from across the Atlantic, youth will learn and practice being effective global citizens. The program takes place from February to April 2024. The time commitment required to complete the program is 12-15 hours over three months. The Global Citizenship Certificate consists of 4 modules (offered live virtually and recorded to accommodate schedules): 1. Sustainable Development Goals 2. Intersectionality 3. Indigenous Realities 4. Social Justice Education and Action Why apply: Learn  what it means to be an effective global citizen Connect  with peers who are passionate about social justice Use  your talents and passions to engage locally and globally Learn about opportunities, locally and internationally, that contribute to better communities Gain hours and a certificate to add to post-secondary applications and resumes Application Process Apply by February 11, 2024. Important Dates Application deadline is February 11, 2024 Certificate program runs between February and April 2024 Eligibility Criteria Who can participate: Be between the ages of 15-18 (at the time of application) Reside in Atlantic Canada (NS, NB, NFLD or PEI) Have an interest in global citizenship and developing leadership skills Be able to commit to participation between February and April 2023 Be willing to contribute 12-15 hours to the progam Application Details Apply by: February 11, 2024 Learn More

Individual Associates Learn more about our individual associates. To join ACIC as an individual associate, apply here. Read the benefits of joining ACIC membership here. Aliyanna Gordon Nova Scotia Aliyanna Gordon is an Indigenous and second-generation immigrant student at Saint Mary’s University, pursuing Commerce with a passion for equity, law, and policy-making. A nationally recognized youth leader, she has facilitated workshops on social justice, anti-racism, and mental health through the Students Commission of Canada. Aliyanna brings experience in public speaking, mentorship, and youth empowerment to ACIC’s community. Alyssa Hoseman Nova Scotia Alyssa Hoseman is the Executive Director of PARSA, a nonprofit based in Afghanistan focused on building healthy communities through local leadership. With 15 years of experience in international development, she brings deep expertise in grassroots programming, gender equity, and organizational strategy in post-conflict settings. Based in rural Nova Scotia, Alyssa wants to connect Atlantic Canadian development communities. Austin I.P. O'Neill New Brunswick 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. Becca Bishop Nova Scotia Becca Bishop has been a community development practitioner for over five years with a degree in community development from St. Francis Xavier and formal training from Coady International Insitute. She is an advocate for cross-sector collaboration, transparency, and accountability and takes an asset-based approach to engaging young people as global citizens. Through her work as a Community Developer for HRM, Becca has supported community and public sector organizations to enhance their facilitation, capacity building, and public engagement efforts. Alongside the local community development work she leads, Becca is a consultant for international development projects. Currently, she is leading the youth public engagement activities for CARE Canada’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights project. Bobbi Zahra Nova Scotia Bobbi Zahra is a public servant who works with Fisheries & Oceans Canada, where she teaches and trains in IT/IM. Outside that role, she has always been active in her community and is presently the President of the Board of Halifax Theatre for Young People, an independent theatre company that commissions and produces work of enduring value for young people and their families. She is a Holocaust scholar, with a great interest in post-Holocaust theology. Although she has a Twitter account, she is somewhat sporadic in its use, but you will find her by the Twitter handle - @sleehah. Camila Dos Res Santos da Silva Nova Scotia Camila is passionate about social justice and community engagement, and actively supports movements for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights, gender equality, active mobility, and sustainability. Her advocacy extends to addressing gender-based violence through a feminist lens, emphasizing holistic support services and culturally sensitive counselling. With experience as a Gender Advisor with Cuso International in Honduras and a Registered Counselling Therapist, she’s honed a deep understanding of intersectional oppression and the importance of mental health and gender equality. Committed to integrating decolonial, anti-racist, and intersectional perspectives, I advocate for awareness of compounded marginalization and prioritize clients' well-being in all endeavours. Catherine Ronahan Prince Edward Island Catherine has more than 10 years coaching and facilitating individuals/groups in career development Darlene Dorion New Brunswick 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. Eliza Knockwood Prince Edward Island Eliza Knockwood is a Two Spirit Mi'kmaq filmmaker living and working out of Epekwitk (also known as Prince Edward Island, Canada). She started her career in the broadcast television industry at the young age of nineteen. Within a year she became the production coordinator on a television series and held that role for three years. In 2006 Eliza began her journey with documentary films and has directed several self-produced shots and community productions. In 2021 Eliza directed her first longer form project called The Ice Walk which was initially created in partnership with Bell Fibe TV1 and then repackaged into feature length film. She has just wrapped filming another short form series titled Gina'matimg - Time of Learning and is currently developing a feature documentary titled The Rite of Passage. Fauzia Matyas-Jamal New Brunswick 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. Godspromise Effiong Nova Scotia Godspromise is a multi-skilled professional known for exceptional people and business friendly communications solutions through impactful mediation, product knowledge and portfolio management. An image-centric individual delivering strategic, clear and concise messages, product research and technical support with foundations in Conflict Resolution, Public Relations, Administration and Data Analysis, emerging GRC Specialist. Hareesh Sahadevan Nova Scotia Hareesh Sahadevan is eager to join ACIC because he aligns with its mission of fostering equitable and sustainable communities. As a board member of an NGO in Uganda focused on refugee resettlement, he sees collaboration with ACIC as a way to enhance his impact. Professionally, Hareesh is affiliated with Emvigo BPO, Gex Logistics, Best Recruitment, Tranztrex Solution, and Tecnostac Systems. His volunteer roles include Board Member of Care Well Foundation, Vice Chairman of Uganda BPO Association, President of ATHMA in Halifax, and Volunteer at ISANS. Heather Dicks Newfoundland and Labrador Heather brings with her over a decade of experience working in the field of International Development; this includes work with the Canadian government, the United Nations, and several non-governmental organizations in numerous countries across the globe. At present, she is completing a PhD within the Sociology Department at the Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador; her thesis research is centered on the nexus between International Development and Migration. She is also currently working on a SSHRC-funded mixed-methods research project exploring the impacts of COVID-19 on Small and Medium-sized Organizations working in Canada’s foreign aid sector. This research project is being led by the University of Guelph in partnership with the Spur Change Program. Concurrently she is working on a separate SSHRC-funded quantitative research project led by Memorial University in partnership with McMaster University. This project is exploring connections between remittance sending behaviors of Canadian immigrants and foreign aid. She holds a master’s degree in Globalization and International Development from the University of Ottawa and a bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations from Carleton University. Jennifer Fox Prince Edward Island Jennifer Fox has been interested in international development since youth. Through a post-graduate study in International Education (School Leadership) and with 20 years of Home Economics and Health teaching, Jennifer has established a commitment to building capacity internationally. Jennifer has a BSc from UPEI, worked as a teacher in the Yukon and Northwest British Columbia, interned with CIDA in Malawi, Africa (2004- 05) and has recently been trained in Humanitarian Education from the Canadian Red Cross. Jennifer King Nova Scotia Jennifer King brings with her over a decade of invaluable experience in international development, with a specialization in gender equality, rural development, and fostering systemic change. Having recently relocated to Nova Scotia, she is eager to forge connections with fellow professionals in Atlantic Canada, enriching our network with her expertise and dedication to global development efforts. Welcome back, Jennifer, as you rejoin our vibrant community! Kaitlyn Keleher New Brunswick 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. Keith Forsythe Nova Scotia Keith Forsyth was a public Chartered Accountant for many years in Nova Scotia. Since then he has become a nomad traveling the world. He has spent over five years as an international volunteer in Africa, Southeast Asia and the Carribbean as well as spending over three years in the Canadian North. Kevin Deveaux Nova Scotia Kevin Deveaux is a Canadian lawyer who was elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in 1998 for the constituency of Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage. He was re-elected in 1999, 2003 and 2006. During his time as an MP, he was the Deputy Speaker for the House from 1999-2003 and the Official Opposition House Leader from 2003-2007. In March, 2007, Kevin resigned his seat in the House of Assembly to work full time as a Senior Parliamentary Technical Adviser with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Hanoi, Vietnam. In August, 2008, he was appointed to the post of global Parliamentary Development Policy Adviser in New York with UNDP’s Democratic Governance Group, where he was in charge of the Global Programme for Parliamentary Support (GPPS) and provided guidance to more than 60 UNDP Country Offices working with national parliaments and political parties. In August 2012 he completed his work with UNDP and returned to Canada to practice law and to provide consulting services to parliaments. He has worked with the World Bank, the EU, DFID, FCO, UN Women, International IDEA and UNDP in the past years. Kevin O'Shea Newfoundland and Labrador Kevin O'Shea is the Executive Director of the Public Legal Information Association of NL (PLIAN). Currently living in St. John's, NL, Kevin was called to the bar as a member of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador in 2011. Keyshawn Bonamy Prince Edward Island Keyshawn came to Canada from the Bahamas in 2015 to study Economics and Political Science at the University of Prince Edward Island. Graduating in 2020, she became the Executive Director of the Voluntary Resource Center, building upon years of volunteer work with Rotary International, WUSC, and other groups on the island. Louise Webb Newfoundland and Labrador Madison O'Connor New Brunswick 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 Mohammad Mashrur Sakib Khan Newfoundland and Labrador Mohammad is an experienced business organization consultant with a law degree who Managed a team of 30+ people in Europe to expand the company into 12 new locations—achieved a 20% annual growth in sales in a startup which was a noteworthy milestone in his career. Additionally, Mohammad has developed a fully satisfied customer concept for repetitive business. During his career, Mohammad has worked in various organizations, gaining skills such as time and team management, inventory management, budgeting, underwriting, analytical ability, critical thinking, problem-solving, etc. Peter Day Nova Scotia Peter graduated from Dalhousie in 2013 with a degree in international development and has carried out his own development mandate in Jamaica through Global Affairs Canada's International Youth Internship Program. He currently serves as a executive assistant in the office of Darrell Samson, Member of Parliament for Sackville-Preston-Chezzetcook Rebekah Sears New Brunswick 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. Rose Gyesi Newfoundland and Labrador Rose Gyesi is a graduate student studying political science at Memorial University. She is currently a student writer and blog content creator of the Political Science Graduate student association of Memorial University. She aspires to become an international Policy analyst and an active global citizen. Sean Kelly Nova Scotia Sean Kelly is an award-winning professional with over 30 years of experience in program development and management, strategic planning, inclusive leadership, communications, and adult education on environment and global development issues. He has worked for organizations including Clean Nova Scotia Foundation (first as Manager of Communications and then as Director of Clean Energy Programs), Cuso International, the Lester Pearson Institute for International Development, and Impact Organizations of Nova Scotia. He won a Global Citizen Award from the UN 50th Anniversary Committee of Canada. Sean is a past Head of Communications for Cuso International, a leading North American global development agency. He led the charity through a major re-branding, and was the editor of The Sustainable Times, a magazine on environment and international development issues sold at 350 newsstands across Canada. Sean has produced radio documentaries that have been heard on the CBC, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, and National Public Radio in the U.S. He has been published in many magazines and has won a National Magazine Award in Canada and a Gabriel Award for Documentary in the U.S. Seiku Diakite New Brunswick 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. Shelagh Savage Nova Scotia Currently a lecturer with the International Development Studies department at Dalhousie University, Shelagh Savage teaches a course on Development in Practice. Prior to that she was Associate Director of Partnerships at the Coady Institute (2009 - 20019) where she focused on how important collaboration is in ensuring social change. Working for many years in international cooperation, she has been privileged to learn with – and from – amazing mentors in communities, institutions and organizations around the world. Shelagh currently serves on a number of boards and advisory committees (including ACIC and Royal Roads University) and worked for many years n the CIDA/DFATD/GAC environment – including co-chairing the first year of the GAC CSO Policy Advisory Group (CPAG). Teresa Lush Nova Scotia Teresa considers herself a global citizen and has been fortunate enough to have traveled the world. She believes that we are all interconnected and that support for one another, no matter the geography, is imperative for us to move forward as a species. She is involved, and would like to be more involved, in furthering international development. She has volunteered in Guatemala for over seven years on her own. This has primarily been with Casa Guatemala, a jungle based orphanage and school on the Rio Dulce. She has also become involved with Ahicam, a home for adolescents and babies in Poptun and more recently, a startup school in Punta Brava, Guatemala. Valeri Pilgrim Newfoundland and Labrador Valeri Pilgrim is the Manager, Aboriginal Resource Offive at the Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) in St. John’s. She has been associated with the Aboriginal Resource Office of MUN since January 2011. She was first hired by Memorial University as the Aboriginal Liaison Officer with the Aboriginal Resource Office for three and a half years. In June, 2014 she took the position of International Student Advisor with the Internationalization Office (IO) where she remained until November, 2018. When the opportunity came up Valeri returned to the Aboriginal Resource Office as Manager in November, 2018. She considers her experiences working with Indigenous and international students extremely valuable, and has always felt enlightened and humbled by students from a variety of cultural backgrounds. In the 1990’s Valeri studied her undergraduate degree in anthropology & sociology at UNB, Fredericton and later completed a Master of Philosophy degree at the University of Oslo in Norway where she lived for two and a half years with her then 7 year old daughter, Kirsten. She self identifies as a Kablunângajuk which is essentially a mix between Inuk (singular for Inuit) and European settler in Labrador. She feels blessed to have grown up in the Inuit community of Nain in Nunatsiavut (Northern Labrador) and is a beneficiary of the Nunatsiavut Government. Last but not least, Valeri is the proud mother of 2 children, Dominic 12 & Kirsten, 24. Wilhemina Welbeck Nova Scotia Wilhemina Welbeck is a nonprofit professional based in Halifax, currently affiliated with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers. She brings strong administrative, communication, and multicultural collaboration skills developed through her work with the NS College of Nursing and the John Howard Society. Wilhemina is committed to social justice and excited to contribute to ACIC’s committees and community.

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.

Safer Spaces 2026 Registration is now open! 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! Join us for ACIC’s Safer Spaces Program 2026, a three-part learning series that brings together members and youth as global actors working within systems shaped by colonialism, racism, and unequal power. The program creates an intentional, safer intergenerational space for members to critically reflect on how systems of power influence the world, and to strengthen collective commitments to justice-centered global solidarity. Through facilitated dialogue, shared reflection, and engagement with lived experience, participants will examine their roles, responsibilities, and opportunities for action within global and local contexts. The program supports members to move beyond awareness toward accountable practice, while building relationships and shared language across generations and experiences. By registering using this form, you are registering for all three parts of our Safer Spaces Program (info below). If you have any questions, please email us at raushni@acic-caci.org . Register by January 16, 2026. Workshop: Understanding Solidarity through an Anti-Racist Lens Hybrid: In-person in Halifax or online | January 23, 10 AM to 1 PM Join us for an in-person or online workshop that introduces core concepts of anti-racism and global solidarity. Together, we will explore how colonialism, race, and whiteness influence international cooperation, and reflect on how power operates across global and local contexts. This session will focus on building shared language, trust, and a foundation for meaningful dialogue throughout the program. Lunch will be provided. Webinar: Power and Perspectives on Solidarity Online | Feb-March 2026 This webinar builds directly on themes and questions identified by participants in Workshop 1, centering what members and youth have named as integral to their work and experiences. Bringing together diverse perspectives, the session foregrounds lived experience and community-rooted knowledge as critical sources of insight. Participants will be invited to listen, reflect, and engage in dialogue on how power, identity, and context shape global solidarity, and what more just and accountable practice can look like across generations and roles. Retreat: Reflection and Application In-person, travel subsidy available | April 2026 This in-person retreat creates space for participants to pause, reflect, and synthesize key learnings from across the Safer Spaces series. Through facilitated discussion and participatory activities, participants will explore how insights from the program can be translated into concrete personal, relational, and organizational action. The session will support participants in identifying next steps for continued learning, accountability, and practice, while strengthening connections across roles, organizations, and generations. Application Details Register by January 16. Apply / Register Now Similar Opportunities Safer Spaces 2026 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. Learn More Members Public Engagement Fund Apply for the Members’ Public Engagement Fund and receive up to $1500 per project to test and carry out your public engagement activity. Currently, we are looking for organizations who want to host a public engagement event during International Development Week. Learn More

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Tsigie Haile Founder and Director Organization for Women in Self-Employment (WISE) About Tsigie Tsigie Haile is the founder and director of the Organization for Women in Self-Employment (WISE), a local non-governmental organization operating in Ethiopia. Tsigie had her BBA from Addis Ababa University and MBA from the Netherlands. She worked for over 20 years at Addis Ababa University, both in the administrative and academic wings, before joining the development sector. After leaving the University, she joined ActionAid Ethiopia and served for four years in the capacity of Human Resource Development Manager. While working at ActionAid, she decided to set up WISE and work with poor women and girls. The organization Tsigie leads, established in 1997, has served over 100,000 low-income women in support of their efforts to become empowered and improve the quality of their lives. WISE is currently a leading organization in women’s economic empowerment in Ethiopia. Tsigie serves in many governing boards and committees of different organizations and has received a number of recognitions for her contribution to poverty reduction and women’s empowerment/gender equality in the country.