From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Ava Green Undergraduate Student Dalhousie University About Ava Ava is a third-year Political Science student at Dalhousie University, originally from Calgary, Alberta. She has a strong passion for community engagement and leadership. Ava is a founding member of Women in Politics at Dal, an initiative aimed at empowering and supporting women in political spaces. Outside the classroom, she is a competitive swim coach, sharing her lifelong passion for swimming and leading goal-setting workshops with her athletes. She also hosts Queens of Music, a weekly radio show that showcases and celebrates women in the music industry.

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. Connecting & Strengthening Atlantic Canada’s Global Changemakers Explore Opportunities 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. Read our Strategic Plan Our Programs ACIC empowers individuals and organizations through international internships, youth programs, and membership support, fostering global citizenship and strengthening Atlantic Canada’s role in international cooperation. Membership Join a thriving community of changemakers! Access exclusive resources, funding, and collaboration opportunities to amplify your work. Internships Gain hands-on experience through funded international placements. Build your skills, expand your network, and make a global impact! Youth Explore global citizenship through leadership training, experiential learning, and cross-cultural exchange. Connect with peers and build skills for a more just world. Celebrating 50 years of impact! ACIC's 50th Anniversary ACIC has spent five decades fostering collaboration, learning, and action for global solidarity. As we mark this milestone, we reflect on our journey and look ahead to the future of international cooperation. Dive into our journey by exploring past reports and blog posts highlighting ACIC’s impact, reflections, and the evolving landscape of international cooperation. Visit our Blog Read ACIC's Reports 1/1 Get Involved Explore available internships, funding, and collaboration opportunities. Take the next step in your global engagement journey today! Safer Spaces 2026 Register by January 16. 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. Members Public Engagement Fund Apply by December 10 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. Upcoming Events Stay connected with ACIC’s latest events, from workshops to networking sessions. Join us in building knowledge, connections, and action for a more just world. February 2026 Today Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 7:00 p.m. Rhythms of Unity: Celebrating African Heritage Month Through Art and Stories of Connection +1 more 6 12:00 p.m. BBPN YETAP Creatives' Summit +2 more +3 more 7 10:30 a.m. The Future of Multilateralism for Peacebuilding (Antigonish) +2 more +3 more 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

International Development Week February 2 - 8, 2025 Join us in celebrating International Development Week (IDW) 2025, as we come together from coast to coast to coast to shine a spotlight on Canadian international development efforts. 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 (#IDW2025) will take place from February 2 to 8 and will be celebrated by  ACIC, Global Affairs Canada, Canadian development organizations, and Canadians with events and activities across Atlantic Canada and the country . Learn More Events List ACIC and our partners will be hosting IDW themed events throughout the week. Stay tuned for information about events in your region. If you attended an ACIC or ACIC-Member event during International Development Week, fill out this survey for a chance to win a $25 gift card . A Journey Into The Unknown: The Migration Experience Through Film and Discussion (Hubbards, NS) Feb 08, 2025, 2:00 p.m. JD Shatford Public Library, 10353 St Margarets Bay Rd, Hubbards, NS B0J 1T0, Canada More info Details Trivia & Games Night Feb 07, 2025, 5:00 p.m. Community Hub on Joyce, 140 Joyce Ave, Moncton, NB E1A 7H4, Canada More info Details The Power of Dialogue to Build Community Feb 07, 2025, 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Zoom More info Details Cooking Around the World Feb 07, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Truro Fire Service, 165 Victoria St, Truro, NS B2N 1Z5, Canada More info Details Challenging Hegemony in Development Feb 07, 2025, 10:00 a.m. Zoom More info Details Gender Based Violence in the Workplace and Vulnerability of Temporary Foreign Workers Feb 07, 2025, 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Charlottetown Public Library, Dominion Building, 97 Queen St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4A9, Canada More info Details Reimagining Agricultural Development in a Future Post-conflict Haiti Feb 05, 2025, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Charlottetown Public Library, Dominion Building, 97 Queen St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4A9, Canada More info Details A Journey Into The Unknown Feb 05, 2025, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Paul O'Regan Hall, Halifax Library, 5440 Spring Garden Rd, Halifax, NS B3J 1E9, Canada More info Details What do a Match and Kite have in common? Feb 04, 2025, 5:30 p.m. UNB Menahqesk Saint John; IH104, 100 Tucker Park Rd, Saint John, NB E2K 5E2, Canada More info Learn more International Youth Internship Program Information Session Feb 04, 2025, 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Zoom More info Details Fiction and Global Development Feb 04, 2025, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Mona Campbell Building Room 1108, 1459 Lemarchant St, Halifax, NS B3H 3P8, Canada More info Learn more Weather Preparedness for Newcomers Feb 03, 2025, 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Immigrant and Refugee Services Assoc., 49 Water St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1A3, Canada More info Details Around the World with Trivia (Postponed) Date and time is TBD Scotia Curry, 9989 St Margarets Bay Rd, Hubbards, NS B0J 1T0, Canada More info Details Engagement Through PhotoVoices Feb 05, 2025, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Location is TBD More info Learn more

Resources Newsletters We regularly send out newsletters both to our audience and to ACIC members with the latest news from the international cooperation sector in Atlantic Canada, opportunities for networking, funding and capacity building, and updates about other members and ACIC. Subscribe Now January 2023 Member Updates February 2023 Member Updates March 2023 April 2023 May 2023 Member Updates June 2023 ACIC Symposium Opportunities 2023 Research & Publications Medicine Wheel Evaluation Framework Through our First Voices project, ACIC developed the Medicine Wheel Evaluation Framework as a participatory evaluation tool to help us better evaluate the project's impact. This guide is intended to introduce the reader to the Medicine Wheel, outlining its history and uses, and to show how the Medicine Wheel can be used as an evaluation framework. Download Responding to the Changing Global Development Context: How Can Canada Deliver? In this report, we highlight key messages in areas that resonate strongly with Canada’s new strategy. This includes the landscape of development is changing, and so are the politics, leaving no one behind and focusing on the poorest presents new challenges and a new normal for donors and Canada’s approach to risk and risk tolerance, and pragmatism about resources, time-frames and results are key factors that will determine the success of its feminist international assistance policy Download Sustainable Development Goals Data Hub Statistics Canada is responsible for the collection, collation, analysis, presentation and dissemination of data for regular monitoring of Canadian progress against the global indicators and has developed this on-line data hub for disseminating Canada's SDG data. Download Engagement canadien pour éliminer la pauvreté dans le monde L’engagement canadien pour éliminer la pauvreté dans le monde, un sondage commandité par le Réseau de coordination des Conseils (RCC), explore l’efficacité de l’engagement sur les enjeux liés à la pauvreté au Canada. Mené en 2012 par Vision Critical, le sondage offre une meilleure compréhension des connaissances, opinions, attitudes et comportements des Canadiennes et des Canadiens en lien avec le travail sur la pauvreté mondiale, tout en montrant la valeur que les Canadiennes et les Canadiens accordent à cette question. Download Atlantic Resilience The purpose of this study was to understand the creativity, adaptability, and challenges of ACIC’s members during the COVID-19 pandemic in order to share learnings, resources, and best practices that have emerged. Members include non-profit organizations, academic institutions, and individuals across all four Atlantic Canadian provinces (Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia), doing community work both domestically and in international partnerships. Download ICN Submission to the Canada Revenue Agency's Consultation on the Political Activities of Charities This submission is based on data from a joint survey conducted by the ICN and CCIC. It sets out 4 overarching recommendations that highlight the important policy work done by charities and the unique challenges that the current regulations impose on Small and Medium-Sized Organizations (SMOs) as well as charities that work internationally. Download Books Beyond Borders Books Beyond Borders is a tool created to help people interested in starting globally focused book clubs in their own communities. It offers suggestions on how to set up a book club, a recommended reading list of some of our members' favourite books, and ideas on how you can get involved locally in some of the issues you read about. Download Canadian Engagement on Global Poverty Issues The Inter-Council Network (ICN) commissioned poll, Canadian Engagement on Global Poverty Issues, explores engagement effectiveness on global poverty issues in Canada. Conducted in 2012 by Vision Critical, the poll offers a deeper understanding of Canadian’s knowledge, opinions, attitudes, and behaviours on global poverty work, while demonstrating the value Canadians place on the subject. Download Your Voice Matters ACIC Project Your Voice Matters offers a snapshot of what Atlantic Canadian youth think about the SDGs, and how they are already being engaged in work, conversation and leadership opportunities for sustainable development. We spoke with over 100 youth and youth-supporting professionals across Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, and Prince Edward Island), reaching the greatest diversity of communities that we could during the two-month time period of the project. Download Canadian Perspectives on International Development This public opinion poll was commissioned to gain an understanding of Canadians’ knowledge of, opinions on, and engagement in global poverty issues in 2015. It builds on similar polls conducted in Canada, such as the 2012 Canadian Engagement in Global Poverty Issues poll by the ICN, and those conducted in other G7 countries through The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Narrative Project. Download Global Citizen's Guide This guide outlines a number of ways we can all get more involved with our local and global communities. It offers tips on volunteering, ethical consumption, engaging in democracy, organising events, internships, and much more. It also profiles a number of Atlantic Canadians just like you that are working to make the world a better place. Download The South through the Northern Eye ACIC coordinated project The South through the Northern Eye explored issues around the images of the developing world found in the media and advertising. This report examines some of the tensions around how images are used in NGO fundraising, what they represent, and the debates on changing the way we use images depicting the Global South in the field of development. Download Maximizing Development Impact of Canada's DFI A policy paper on how Canada can draw on international best practice as it shapes its new. Download Canada's Feminist International Assistance Policy Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy recognizes that supporting gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls is the best way to build a more peaceful, more inclusive and more prosperous world. To do this, it supports targeted investments, partnerships, innovation and advocacy efforts with the greatest potential to close gender gaps and improve everyone’s chance for success. Download Submission of the Inter-Council Network on The Civil Society Partnership Policy of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada The ICN has submitted comprehensive comments on Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada’s Draft Civil Society Partnership Policy. In this report, the ICN stresses that adherence to human rights-based principles, commitments, standards, and approaches be explicit preconditions for partnership, that the expertise brought by CSOs, in particular, should be the focus of the policy, and that DFATD should ensure the conformity of the meaning of the French and English versions of the text of the policy. Download

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Upcoming Events Rhythms of Unity: Celebrating African Heritage Month Through Art and Stories of Connection Feb 05, 2026, 7:00 p.m. More info Register Now Multiple Dates 1 day to the event BBPN YETAP Creatives' Summit Feb 06, 2026, 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. More info Register Now 1 day to the event The Future of Multilateralism for Peacebuilding Feb 06, 2026, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. More info Register Now 1 day to the event NSGA African Dinner 2026 Feb 06, 2026, 5:30 p.m. More info Register Now 2 days to the event The Future of Multilateralism for Peacebuilding (Antigonish) Feb 07, 2026, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. More info Register Now 2 days to the event From Beans to Justice: Conversations on Coffee, Fair Trade, and Global Solidarity Feb 07, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. More info Register Now Current and Upcoming Opportunities Safer Spaces 2026 Public Engagement 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. Learn More Members Public Engagement Fund Fund, Public Engagement December 10, 2025 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 February 2026 Today Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 5:00 p.m. Weather Preparedness for Newcomers on PEI +1 more 3 1:00 p.m. The Power of Education in Peacebuilding +2 more +3 more 4 1:30 p.m. Peace | Paix +1 more +2 more 5 7:00 p.m. Rhythms of Unity: Celebrating African Heritage Month Through Art and Stories of Connection +1 more 6 12:00 p.m. BBPN YETAP Creatives' Summit +2 more +3 more 7 10:30 a.m. The Future of Multilateralism for Peacebuilding (Antigonish) +2 more +3 more 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Events Calendar

Re-Imagining Development Gathering 2025 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 October 17, 2024 Important Dates Important details: The deadline to apply is October 17, 2024 Gathering dates: November 8-10 Travel dates (if needed): November 7 & 11 Eligibility Criteria To apply for this program, participants will: Be between the ages of 18-29 Be living in Atlantic Canada Be pursuing a career in local/global solidarity Application Details Register by: October 17, 2024 Learn More

Symposium Youth Stream 2025 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. About Eligibility Criteria Application Process Important Dates About the Program As part of the ACIC Symposium From Aid to Action, ACIC is seeking youth (aged 19-29) 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 and similar areas, 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 deep uncertainty facing foreign aid. Powerful nations are cutting Overseas Development Assistance (ODA), threatening global solidarity and long-standing partnerships for justice, climate action, and gender equality. ACIC’s 2025 Symposium, From Aid to Action, is a space to reflect, connect, and act. IMPORTANT NOTE: All expenses (food, transportation, accommodation) will be covered by ACIC As part of the youth stream, you will: Engage with peers and experienced professionals working in the sector Learn about careers, locally and internationally, that contribute to better communities Combine theory and action to strengthen your understanding of praxis in relation to the symposium theme 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 June 17-19, in Halifax, NS 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 Application Process Apply at the link below. Important Dates From Aid to Action - ACIC Symposium 2025: June 18 - 19, 2025 Application Deadline: May 4, 2025 Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the youth stream, participants will: Be between the ages of 19-29 Be living in Atlantic Canada Be available to attend the Symposium in person (June 17-19) Application Details Apply by: May 4, 2025 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.

IDW Youth Funding 2026 To celebrate International Development Week (IDW), ACIC is excited to offer funding for youth (ages 15-30) to host their own events! About Eligibility Criteria Application Process Important Dates About the Program 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 global/local solidarity, but they must take place during the week of February 1st-7th, 2026. Events can be hosted by an individual or group of youth and can take place at a school, university, online, at a local business, in the community, or elsewhere. Successful candidates will receive up to $300 towards their event. ACIC will also provide support in setting up and promoting the event. Event objectives are to: Create awareness of global solidarity and IDW in Atlantic Canada Support and celebrate local youth and community members who are using innovative methods to positively impact their communities at home and/or abroad Create opportunities for youth to gain skills in engagement, facilitation, event planning, and more! Application Process Event Requirements: The event will clearly be related to local/global solidarity (reference the Sustainable Development Goals ) The event must clearly outline who will attend, the objectives of the event, and how the event will meet these objectives The event will be creative and interactive to ensure good participation of those attending Show how youth planning the event will ensure good attendance It is VERY important that all events meet provincial public health guidelines. Virtual events are highly encouraged. Note: If your idea is not a traditional event, we encourage you to still apply and provide justification for why it should be funded. Be creative! Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until funding is allocated. Successful applicants will receive up to $300 towards their event, based on the strength of their application/proposed need. For more information contact Jackie at 902.431.2311 or jackie@acic-caci.org Important Dates International Development Week: Between Feb 1st and 7th, 2026 Eligibility Criteria Application criteria: Youth must be between the ages of 15 to 30, living in Atlantic Canada (NS, PEI, NB, NL) The event must take place between Feb 1st and 7th, 2026 Application Details Apply by: December 10, 2024 Learn More

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Sam Quansah Executive Director Algo Peers About Sam Samuel (Sam) Quansah is an educational innovator and youth development leader with years of experience designing inclusive learning programs and leading community-based initiatives across Ghana and Africa. As Founder and Executive Director of Algo Peers, he drives efforts to expand access to STEAM education by training educators and supporting schoolchildren through practical, community-centred solutions. Sam believes Africa’s youth—the youngest population in the world—are the continent’s greatest asset. He champions development models that centre local youth empowerment, education, and community ownership. Through programs like the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation’s (ACIC) International Youth Internship Program (IYIP) and PhotoVoice, he supports youth to take the lead in addressing local challenges. In just 10 days, Samuel’s team received 336 applications from youth in Ghana eager to join the PhotoVoice initiative, underscoring the growing demand among young people to drive change and community development within their contexts. Co-led by the Connecting to Africa initiative, these programs build meaningful bridges between young people in Ghana and Nova Scotia, Canada, fostering shared learning and global solidarity. One such youth leader, Matthew Thanks, uses short films to raise awareness around water pollution in Northern Ghana—illustrating how grassroots voices can inspire real change. This response reflects a critical truth: while youth are ready to lead, lasting impact depends on funding and partnerships that centre local solutions. To this end, Sam collaborates with school leaders, local governments, and global partners—including ACIC, Connecting to Africa, Global Affairs Canada, and the Ghana Education Service (Cape Coast)—to design a localized funding model that channels resources directly to underserved schools and communities. This approach enables context-specific, community-led solutions to thrive, shifting traditional donor models toward ones that put communities in control of their development. Samuel, a former Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, has mentored hundreds of African youth through the Google Africa Developer Scholarship Challenge, supporting the next generation of tech leaders across the continent. He is also a Mandela Washington Fellow recognized by the U.S. Department of State and completed Leadership for Civic Engagement training at the University of Delaware. Samuel combines this leadership experience with advanced studies as a Master of Business Creation (MBC) candidate at the University of Utah and an Ed.M. candidate at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, focusing on Global, International, and Comparative Education. Samuel’s mission is to co-create sustainable systems that empower African youth and educators to solve local problems on their terms, grounded in community context and led by local leadership. He firmly believes that meaningful development requires local ownership, strategic funding, and partnerships that prioritize and amplify community-driven solutions. By aligning resources with grassroots expertise, Samuel aims to shift traditional models toward ones where communities are the architects of their growth and progress, ensuring lasting impact and true empowerment.

Research & Publications The South through the Northern Eye ACIC coordinated project The South through the Northern Eye explored issues around the images of the developing world found in the media and advertising. This report examines some of the tensions around how images are used in NGO fundraising, what they represent, and the debates on changing the way we use images depicting the Global South in the field of development. Download Canada's Feminist International Assistance Policy Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy recognizes that supporting gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls is the best way to build a more peaceful, more inclusive and more prosperous world. To do this, it supports targeted investments, partnerships, innovation and advocacy efforts with the greatest potential to close gender gaps and improve everyone’s chance for success. Download Engagement canadien pour éliminer la pauvreté dans le monde L’engagement canadien pour éliminer la pauvreté dans le monde, un sondage commandité par le Réseau de coordination des Conseils (RCC), explore l’efficacité de l’engagement sur les enjeux liés à la pauvreté au Canada. Mené en 2012 par Vision Critical, le sondage offre une meilleure compréhension des connaissances, opinions, attitudes et comportements des Canadiennes et des Canadiens en lien avec le travail sur la pauvreté mondiale, tout en montrant la valeur que les Canadiennes et les Canadiens accordent à cette question. Download Maximizing Development Impact of Canada's DFI A policy paper on how Canada can draw on international best practice as it shapes its new. Download Atlantic Resilience The purpose of this study was to understand the creativity, adaptability, and challenges of ACIC’s members during the COVID-19 pandemic in order to share learnings, resources, and best practices that have emerged. Members include non-profit organizations, academic institutions, and individuals across all four Atlantic Canadian provinces (Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia), doing community work both domestically and in international partnerships. Download Canadian Engagement on Global Poverty Issues The Inter-Council Network (ICN) commissioned poll, Canadian Engagement on Global Poverty Issues, explores engagement effectiveness on global poverty issues in Canada. Conducted in 2012 by Vision Critical, the poll offers a deeper understanding of Canadian’s knowledge, opinions, attitudes, and behaviours on global poverty work, while demonstrating the value Canadians place on the subject. Download Global Citizen's Guide This guide outlines a number of ways we can all get more involved with our local and global communities. It offers tips on volunteering, ethical consumption, engaging in democracy, organising events, internships, and much more. It also profiles a number of Atlantic Canadians just like you that are working to make the world a better place. Download Medicine Wheel Evaluation Framework Through our First Voices project, ACIC developed the Medicine Wheel Evaluation Framework as a participatory evaluation tool to help us better evaluate the project's impact. This guide is intended to introduce the reader to the Medicine Wheel, outlining its history and uses, and to show how the Medicine Wheel can be used as an evaluation framework. Download Books Beyond Borders Books Beyond Borders is a tool created to help people interested in starting globally focused book clubs in their own communities. It offers suggestions on how to set up a book club, a recommended reading list of some of our members' favourite books, and ideas on how you can get involved locally in some of the issues you read about. Download Canadian Perspectives on International Development This public opinion poll was commissioned to gain an understanding of Canadians’ knowledge of, opinions on, and engagement in global poverty issues in 2015. It builds on similar polls conducted in Canada, such as the 2012 Canadian Engagement in Global Poverty Issues poll by the ICN, and those conducted in other G7 countries through The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Narrative Project. Download ICN Submission to the Canada Revenue Agency's Consultation on the Political Activities of Charities This submission is based on data from a joint survey conducted by the ICN and CCIC. It sets out 4 overarching recommendations that highlight the important policy work done by charities and the unique challenges that the current regulations impose on Small and Medium-Sized Organizations (SMOs) as well as charities that work internationally. Download Responding to the Changing Global Development Context: How Can Canada Deliver? In this report, we highlight key messages in areas that resonate strongly with Canada’s new strategy. This includes the landscape of development is changing, and so are the politics, leaving no one behind and focusing on the poorest presents new challenges and a new normal for donors and Canada’s approach to risk and risk tolerance, and pragmatism about resources, time-frames and results are key factors that will determine the success of its feminist international assistance policy Download