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

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Adiza Abdul-Raifu About Adiza

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Gabrielle Bardall Assistant Professor of Politics Canada Research Chair in Women, Democracy, and Power in the Francophonie, Université Sainte-Anne About Gabrielle Gabrielle Bardall is assistant professor of politics and candidate for a Canada Research Chair in Women, Democracy, and Power in the Francophonie at Université Sainte-Anne in Nova Scotia. She is a visiting professor at the University of Ottawa and a fellow and adjunct professor at the Centre for the Study of Security and Development at Dalhousie University. She has worked on democracy support initiatives in over 60 countries around the world for various UN agencies, bilateral foreign affairs and international non-profit organizations, and as founder and director of the Herizon Democracy consulting group. She specializes in gender, security, and democratization issues, particularly women's political rights in post-conflict and authoritarian states. A former Vice-President of the Parliamentary Centre, she recently worked for Canada's Ambassador for Women, Peace, and Security as Senior Policy Advisor at Global Affairs Canada. Professor Bardall is a graduate of McGill University, Sciences Po Paris, and the University of Montreal. She was awarded the Congressional Fellowship by the American Political Science Association and the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Doctoral Scholarship for her work in the field of gender-based political violence.

< Back Atlantic Council for International Cooperation Celebrates and Welcomes Canada’s Recognition of the State of Palestine Atlantic Council for International Cooperation Sep 24, 2025 The Atlantic Council for International Cooperation (ACIC) celebrates and welcomes the Government of Canada’s historic decision, announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney on September 21, 2025, to recognize the State of Palestine. This recognition, made in coordination with the governments of the United Kingdom and Australia, reflects a long-overdue commitment to international law, human rights, and the dignity of the Palestinian people, and represents an important step toward lasting peace and justice in the region. In his statement, Prime Minister Carney affirmed that Canada’s recognition is firmly aligned with the principles of self-determination and fundamental human rights reflected in the United Nations Charter, and consistent with Canada’s longstanding policy of supporting a two-state solution. This coordinated recognition underscores the urgent need to preserve the possibility of a viable, sovereign, and democratic Palestinian state alongside the State of Israel. "This decision marks a significant milestone for Canada and for global solidarity," said Heather Dicks, ACIC Board Chair. "We celebrate and welcome this recognition, and we urge the Government of Canada to build on this momentum, leading by advocating for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, and guaranteeing effective humanitarian aid reaches those in need." ACIC calls on the Government of Canada to work with international partners to: Press for an immediate and permanent ceasefire; Guarantee unrestricted and effective humanitarian access to Gaza; Support international accountability mechanisms for violations of international humanitarian law; Advance peacebuilding initiatives that uphold dignity, security, and justice for all people in the region. As a coalition rooted in global solidarity, ACIC affirms that recognition of Palestinian statehood is a vital first step, but peace requires continued commitment to justice and human rights. Canada’s recognition, while historic, must be followed by concrete measures that ensure the protection of civilians, the delivery of effective humanitarian aid, and the realization of a just and sustainable peace. About ACIC The Atlantic Council for International Cooperation (ACIC) is a coalition of more than 50 organizations and individuals working in global cooperation and solidarity from across Atlantic Canada. ACIC supports its members in building more equitable, just, and sustainable communities at home and around the world. Contact: Mateo Gomez Angulo, ACIC Communications Officer communications@acic-caci.org Previous Next

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Patrik Evelio Mucia Poz Biodiversity Program Coordinator, Seed Bank Administrator, Permaculture Educator The Mesoamerican Permaculture Institute (IMAP) About Patrik Patrik Evelio Mucia Poz has worked at IMAP for 12 years, where he heads the Biodiversity Program and runs IMAP’s seed bank for native and heirloom seeds. The seed bank helps provide access to seeds for organic farmers that make up IMAP’s network of producers, while preserving a diversity of climate-adapted native seed varieties. As a certified permaculturist, permaculture educator, and talented photographer, Mr. Mucia shares his passion for sustainable, ancestrally-rooted agricultural practices widely, facilitating trainings for local farmers and students, and running IMAP’s communications and social media. Mr. Mucia has promoted biodiversity, community agriculture, recuperation of ancestral practices, and native seed saving nationally and internationally through his participation in conferences and knowledge exchanges in England, India, Mexico, and the U.S.

PhotoVoices 2025 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. About Eligibility Criteria Application Process Important Dates About the Program About the Program Racial inequality remains deeply entrenched in our society, limiting opportunities for people of African descent and other racialized communities to participate in decision-making and leadership roles. Systemic barriers perpetuate disparities across all social determinants of health, as research and statistical data consistently demonstrate inequities faced by racialized groups in every sector of Canadian society. These inequities are not abstract—they manifest in tangible, measurable ways that affect access to education, employment, healthcare, and housing. Racial discrimination is a persistent and pervasive force that undermines individual potential and stifles collective solidarity. Addressing these challenges requires not only recognizing the reality of racial injustice but also committing to meaningful action that promotes equity, inclusion, and justice for all. ACIC is currently seeking participants for its PhotoVoices Program! Stories are powerful: they weave people and experiences together and shape how we see the world. Knowing the impact and value of a well-told story, ACIC’s PhotoVoices Program empowers youth to share the narratives they want to tell through photos. This years PhotoVoice program has a specific focus on realities facing youth from African Diaspora and Black communities living in Atlantic Canada. Through the program, Atlantic Canadian youth and youth from our program partners abroad use photos to share their stories, build skills, explore various topics related to social justice, learn from experts in the field, and so much more. The purpose of this program is to help budding photographers/journalists build their skills and portfolios while taking part in an intercultural program. The program will include youth 18-29 years from Atlantic Canada and youth from the partner organization/s country. Why get involved: Share, network, and collaborate with like-minded youth living in Atlantic Canada and abroad Develop skills in photography, communication, social justice action, storytelling, and more! Opportunity to learn how to address community needs, concerns, planning, and other lived realities Important details: All activities will take place online. Participants must have access to a stable internet connection and laptop or desktop computer or tablet. If stable internet access or equipment access could be a challenge but you are interested in applying, please mention this in the application form below. The program will run for 10 weeks from February 9 and March 23, 2025 (Sunday afternoons). Upon completion of the program youth will receive a certificate of completion and a $150 honorarium for the time and commitment. For more information contact Jackie at 902.431.2311 or jackie@acic-caci.org To achieve program goals, the PhotoVoices Program uses Participatory Action Research and the process of photovoice as a visually effective and transforming process, which helps to communicate diverse understandings and needs. It is most useful in: Empowering marginalized and underserved individuals & communities Connecting disparate community voices Raising awareness & action on community issues Evaluating collaborative initiatives Reaching and motivating decision makers (McRuer, J (July 2020). Photovoice: A Basic Guide to Support Participatory Action Processes for Transformative Community Building) Application Process Application Process Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. To apply for our Racial Inequality-focused PhotoVoices program, please apply at this link. Important Dates Important Dates The program will run for 10 weeks from February 9 and April 13, 2025 Virtual meetings will take place weekly on Sundays For more information contact Jackie at 902.431.2311 or jackie@acic-caci.org Eligibility Criteria To apply for this program, participants will: Be between the ages of 18-29 Be living in Atlantic Canada Depending on the PhotoVoices program you are applying for:Be a person of African descent (Including, but not limited to Black Canadians, People of African ancestry living in Canada, People of Afro-Caribbean ancestry, People of Afro-Latino ancestry) Be available for approximately 2 hours/week over the course of 10 weeks between February 9 to March 20th, 2025, for Zoom sessions and program work such as taking photos, connecting with group members, and reflecting on the program process Show interest in learning from others and sharing aspects of their own lived experiences, communities, and analysis with youth from other regions of Atlantic Canada and other countries Application Details Apply by: February 8, 2025 Learn More

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

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Jennifer Elms Regional Gender Equality Advisor Aga Khan Foundation North America About Jennifer Jennifer Elms (she/her/elle) is a global gender specialist with 15 years working within East Africa, Southeast Asia, Australasia and North America. She is currently the Gender Equality Advisor at Aga Khan Foundation North America. Jennifer is passionate about working with partners to create innovative, intersectional, and sustainable gender-transformative change, with particular focus on women’s economic empowerment, gender-responsive learning systems, climate resilience, and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). Jennifer earned a Master of Human Rights and Democratization at University of Sydney (Australia) and a Bachelor of Arts (Joint Majors Psychology and English Literature) at Memorial University of Newfoundland. When not working, Jennifer can be found playing basketball or telling cheesy jokes. Jennifer shares her journey with her white-water rafting and life partner, Hassan, and their two children.

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

Professional Practice Workshop 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. About Eligibility Criteria Application Process Important Dates About the Program Workshop Description: 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. The workshop will bridge the gap between knowledge and action by engaging students to foster skills, access resources, and build their knowledge around professional practice, helping to build confidence to engage on these issues with their communities. In addition, students from New Brunswick, across disciplines, will come together for a day of co-learning and networking, including training and conversations related to personal profile building for employment, unique paths to employment, skills mapping, and more. Why get involved: Engage with peers and experienced professionals working in various non-profit fields Learn about careers, locally and internationally, that contribute to better communities Combine theory and action to strengthen your understanding of praxis in relation to global solidarity 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. The workshop will bridge the gap between knowledge and action by engaging students to foster skills, access resources, and build their knowledge around professional practice, helping to build confidence to engage on these issues with their communities. In addition, students from New Brunswick, across disciplines, will come together for a day of co-learning and networking, including training and conversations related to personal profile building for employment, unique paths to employment, skills mapping, and more. Application Process Apply by March 15, 2024. Important Dates Apply by March 15, 2024 Workshop takes place on March 16, 2024 Eligibility Criteria To apply for this program, participants will: Be between the ages of 18-29 Be living in New Brunswick Application Details Apply by: March 15, 2024 Learn More

IDW Youth Funding 2024 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. 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 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. 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 to add to International Development Week celebrations across the country. You can host the event as an individual, or a group, in your school, university, online, in partnership with a local business. Successful candidates will receive up $300 to put towards their event. Event objectives are to: Create awareness of the SDGs 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 For more information contact Jackie at 902.431.2311 or jackie@acic-caci.org Important Dates 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 5th and 11th, 2024 The event will clearly be related to one, or more, of 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 Application Details Learn More

< Back Atlantic Council for International Cooperation celebrates funding for International Youth Internship Program Atlantic Council for International Cooperation Feb 7, 2024 At an event celebrating International Development Week 2024, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development announced $24.5 million in funding for the International Youth Internships Program (IYIP) across Canada, including $4.23 million for the RYSING (Resilient Youth, Supported Inclusion, Network Growth) project jointly implemented by the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation and the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University (MI). The program offers Canadian youth the opportunity to gain valuable international work experience and make meaningful contributions through four-month international internship placements. Between 2024 and 2029, ACIC and MI’s IYIP program will place 190 interns with 22 partner organisations in 15 countries throughout Africa, the Caribbean, Asia, and Central America. Priority will be given to Racialized, Indigenous, and 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, and youth who have experienced barriers to employment due to COVID-19. Applications for the first IYIP cohort will open on February 12, 2024. Youth who are interested in acquiring new skills and gaining professional experience abroad or contributing their knowledge, skills and lived experiences to meaningful projects abroad are encouraged to apply. Minister Hussen, on announcing the program funding, said “Youth engagement matters. It creates meaningful opportunities for new generations to be agents of change in their communities. Canada is committed to mobilising and inspiring young people from diverse backgrounds to get involved in international development.” Learn more about ACIC’s IYIP program: https://www.acic-caci.org/internships Contact: Indigo Christ, ACIC IYIP Program Manager indigo@acic-caci.org Jennifer Sloot, ACIC Executive Director jennifer@acic-caci.org Previous Next