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.

PhotoVoices 2023 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 Stories are powerful: they weave people and experiences together and shape how we see the world. Knowing the impact and value of a well-told story, ACIC’s PhotoVoices Program empowers youth to share the narratives they want to tell through photos.  Through the program, Atlantic Canadian youth and youth from the Global South use photos to share their stories, build skills, explore the Sustainable Development Goals, learn from experts in the field, and so much more. Application Process Important Dates Eligibility Criteria Application Details Learn More

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Jonathan Langdon Professor and Canada Research Chair Development Studies Department at St. Francis Xavier University About Jonathan Jonathan Langdon is a Professor and the Canada Research Chair for Sustainability and Social Change Leadership at St Francis Xavier University, in Mi’kma’ki or Nova Scotia, Canada. For the past 20 years, he has been working with social movements in Ghana to document and deepen their learning in, through and to struggle. More recently, this work sparked a partnership network amongst social movements in Ghana, South Africa, Guatemala and Canada that focuses on how movements can learn from each other from one locale to another, or translocally. In addition to working with this new partnership, Langdon has contributed to critical and decolonized approaches to Development Studies curriculum, including experiential learning pedagogy. Co-authored with many of the activists he’s worked with, as well as with students, Langdon’s writing has been published in leading international and Canadian development, participatory action research and adult education journals. He is also the author of African Social Movement Learning (Brill, 2020), and editor of Indigenous Knowledges, Development and Education (Sense, 2009).

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.

Youth ACIC’s youth programs provide meaningful opportunities to learn about global issues, build skills, and make an impact as active global citizens. Through activities like the Global Citizenship Conference and workshops, youth explore issues that matter, connect with peers, and take action . With programs designed for various interests and skill levels, participants can expand their knowledge and confidence, whether they're just getting started or ready to deepen their engagement. ACIC encourages youth from Atlantic Canada to explore multiple activities, each helping them grow as leaders in their communities and beyond. Programs PhotoVoices Galleries Learn More ACIC's PhotoVoices Program enables youth to share their narratives every year through photography, writing, and art. From the art our youth from Atlantic Canada and from overseas, we've been able to curate our very own gallieries. Global Citizenship Youth Conference 2026 Learn More Are you between the ages of 15 and 17 and interested in exploring global issues? Join us for the 2026 Global Citizenship Youth Conference! Click here to view our Youth Programs archive View our Global Citizenship Conference 2024 Photo Gallery! Photo Credits: Colette Peng, 2024 Conference Digital Storyteller Contact Jackie Dowling ACIC Youth Program Manager (902) 431-2311 Jackie@acic-caci.org First Name Last Name Email Message Thanks for submitting! Send

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

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Shadi Mousavi About Shadi

ICN Youth Delegation 2024 The Inter-Council Network is proud to work with youth from across Canada in order to ensure that their voices have the opportunity to be heard at the Sixty-Eighth Session of the Commission of the Status of Women (CSW68). About Eligibility Criteria Application Process Important Dates About the Program The active involvement of youth in international forums is key to building a brighter future. Youth bring their fresh perspectives and innovative thinking, which inspire collaboration and drive change. Their long-term commitment ensures the sustainability of these goals, while their adaptability and resilience help us navigate the complex challenges of our time. By empowering and including young people, we unlock the full potential of the SDGs, bringing us closer to a more equitable, environmentally responsible, and prosperous world for all. About the UN Commission on the Status of Women The UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) is the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and empowerment of women. The CSW is instrumental in promoting women’s rights, documenting the reality of women’s lives throughout the world, and shaping global standards. During the Commission’s annual two-week session, representatives of UN Member States, civil society organizations and UN entities discuss progress, gaps, and further actions in the implementation of the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action , as well as emerging issues that affect gender equality and the empowerment of women. As a functional commission of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), YDC brings Delegates from across Canada to engage in the CSW including through submitting written statements, oral interventions, or organizing side/parallel events. This opportunity enables YDC delegates to engage with stakeholders in Canada and abroad to inform their position and advocate for it domestically. The active involvement of youth in international forums is key to building a brighter future. Youth bring their fresh perspectives and innovative thinking, which inspire collaboration and drive change. Their long-term commitment ensures the sustainability of these goals, while their adaptability and resilience help us navigate the complex challenges of our time. By empowering and including young people, we unlock the full potential of the SDGs, bringing us closer to a more equitable, environmentally responsible, and prosperous world for all. The sixty-eight session of the Commission on the Status of Women will take place from 11 to 22 March 2024 , and its priority theme is: Accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective . Application Process If you have any questions, please contact us at info@icn-rcc.ca Important Dates Eligibility Criteria This program is available for youth (18-30) from across Canada. Application Details Learn More

Upcoming Events 4 days to the event Global Roundtable: International Reflections from Canadian Youth Jun 13, 2026, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. More info Register Now 9 days to the event Annual General Meeting 2026 Jun 18, 2026, 12:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. More info Register Now 9 days to the event Global Resistance, Local Actions Jun 18, 2026, 12:00 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 PhotoVoices Partners 2026 Partners, Youth Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis ACIC is looking for partners to help implement our 2026 PhotoVoices program! Through the program, Atlantic Canadian youth and youth from the international community use photos to share their stories, build skills, explore the Sustainable Development Goals, learn from experts in the field, and so much more. Learn More Global Citizenship Conference Leaders Application Youth April 27, 2026 ACIC is currently seeking to fill five Conference Leader positions to join us for our Global Citizenship Youth Conference (July 10 - 13, 2026) Learn More Global Citizenship Youth Conference: Digital Storytellers Youth July 3, 2026 We are looking for a digital storyteller to join us for our Global Citizenship Youth Conference! (July 10 - 13, 2026) Learn More June 2026 Today Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 5:00 p.m. Global Roundtable: International Reflections from Canadian Youth 14 15 16 17 18 12:00 p.m. Annual General Meeting 2026 +1 more 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Events Calendar

< 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

ACIC's 50th Anniversary Travel through time with us as we follow ACIC’s journey from a regional committee to the organization as we know it today. 2025 ACIC in 2025 For 50 years, the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation has supported a diverse range of organizations across Atlantic Canada, advocated for our region on a national level, and created opportunities for youth to become confident leaders. We have persevered through operational obstacles, global uncertainty, and unpredictable levels of support. Through it all, we have maintained our goals of public engagement, advocacy, capacity-building, and youth empowerment. Though we have remained consistent during our time as an organization, we have also found places to grow. Justice, equity, and sustainability have always been core to our vision; we continue to learn and progress through intentionally incorporating decolonization, anti-racism, and intersectionality into our programs and operations. Thank you to all of our members, partners, and participants – you make us the organization we are today. We’re excited to continue and expand our work to help make Atlantic Canada, our country, and our world a more just, equitable, and sustainable place. Participants at ACIC’s 2025 Symposium in Halifax, From Aid To Action. We engage Atlantic Canadians in issues related to international development, global solidarity and social justice. Through our public engagement work, we aim to give Atlantic Canadians the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to become active global citizens. Our rich and vibrant coalition is united by a strong commitment to build a more just, equitable and sustainable world. Our work over the coming five years is focused on fostering just, equitable, and sustainable communities, both locally and globally. Guided by this vision for the present and the future, our core values will guide us in our relationships, planning, programs, and operations. Our strategic directions will be achieved alongside, and in service to our Communities of Focus and those centred in our work. 2025 LIFT Funded by GAC and run through the ICN, the LIFT program will support SMOs to scale their international development projects and strengthen their capacity to respond to the most pressing global challenges. Hosted by the Manitoba Council for International Cooperation, LIFT will help organizations strengthen capacity, deepen partnerships, and scale their global development work, supporting 150+ small and medium sized organizations across the country. Pictured here are the Executive Directors of Canada’s Councils for International Cooperation alongside Global Affairs Canada Staff. Featured Programs from Our History 2006-Present ACIC’S Youth Conferences The very first Move Your World Youth Conference is held in 2006. Over the years, Move Your World made way for the ACT 4 Global Change Youth Conference, and later the Global Citizenship Youth Conference, which ACIC continues to hold annually. Text Text Text Text 2025 ODA update At the end of Justin Trudeau’s 10-year term as Prime Minister, Canadian ODA is 0.34% of GNI, still far short of the UN goal of 0.7%. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addresses the United Nations General Assembly Thursday, Sept. 21, 2017. (Richard Drew/Associated Press) 2024 Leo Cheverie Award In memory of past ACIC board member Leo Cheverie, the first Leo Cheverie Significant Achievement Award is announced. The award recognizes community leaders who have made significant contributions to their local and global communities. The first award was presented at the 2025 symposium. Leo was a longtime advocate for fariness and equity, and played a significant role in helping shape ACIC into what we are today. The Leo Cheverie Significant Achievement Award honours individuals whose long-standing commitment to justice equity, and global solidarity has created lasting change, often behind the scenes. Featured Programs from Our History 2023-2028 IYIP with the Marine Institute ACIC partners with the Marine Institute of the Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador to deploy 190 interns to placements in 15 countries, prioritizing Indigenous, racialized, and 2SLGBTQIA+ participants. ACIC’s first cohort of the IYIP program consisted of 21 interns from across Canada, travelling to placements in Central America, the Caribbean, West Africa, East Africa, South Asia, South-East Asia, and from home through our virtual placement. At the time of writing, ACIC is currently recruiting for our fourth cohort of interns. So far, 73 interns from across Canada have been able to participate in international internships, around halfway through the program. 2022 Anti-Racism Framework After our Safer Spaces Dialogue pilot in 2021, ACIC publishes our anti-racism framework. Pictured here are ACIC staff, board, and members participating in a Membership Anti-Racism Training in Tatamagouche, NS. 2022 COVID-19 pandemic The World Health Organization declares the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic. Between February 2020 and May 2023, Canada contributes $1.4 billion for humanitarian and development assistance for immediate pandemic responses. Nationally, NGOs like ACIC must halt their programming almost overnight and adapt to become fully virtual. In the international development field, issues relating to travel, reliable internet access, funding concerns, and exacerbated inequalities strongly impacts NGOs and their partners. The COVID-19 pandemic brought uncertainty and major shifts to ACIC programs, from postponed travel to rapid digital pivots. Yet, in this time of disruption, our members and partners showed remarkable resilience and continued working towards shared goals in new was. ACIC programs were moved towards online or hybrid models, and our network adapted to engaging with communities in virtual spaces. Pictured above are the 2022 ACIC Symposium, Through the Looking Glass, and a 2022 Storytelling for Social Change workshop. Featured Programs from Our History 2022-Present Partnership Enhancement Fund The Partnership Enhancement Fund provides ACIC members the opportunity to invite their international partners to Atlantic Canada. Breaking the Silence is the fund’s current recipient, and LifeSchoolHouse, Venture 2 Impact, and The Cooper Institute have all used the fund to enhance relationships with partners across the globe. In 2025, ACIC funded Breaking the Silence through the Partnership Enhancement fund to bring two speakers, Maria Ines Cuj Chopen and Patrik Evelio Mucia Poz, to the Atlantic for the 2025 Symposium. Also funded by the Partnership Enhancement Fund, ACIC member organization Venture2Impact supported travel for Freddy Duque to join the ACIC 2023 Symposium in Charlottetown from Colombia. 2021-2023 Our Communities, Our Voices 24 young Indigenous leaders learned how to create meaningful change through social media. The participants partook in a series of workshops teaching them how to launch social media campaigns to raise awareness of social movements in Indigenous communities and engage them in the SDGs. “Indigenous people already make the connection of the interconnectedness of the SDGs. Its part of us, everything is energy and everything has life tot i. Everything is worthwhile.” Kailey Simon Our Communities, Our Voices Program Participant 2022 The 'Our Communities, Our Voices' program aimed to engage young Indigenous leaders to share stories, knowledge, and perspectives from their own Communities. Using the Sustainable Development Goals as a framework for discussion, the team of Indigenous women and two-spirit folks gained skill, knowledge, and support systems for becoming advocates in their communities. Featured Programs from Our History 2020-Present PhotoVoices Projects Since 2020, ACIC has partnered with multiple organizations to create 5 photovoice projects with over 100 youth both regionally and internationally. PhotoVoices allows youth to tell stories through photos while also providing a place to learn about social justice. 2022-23 PhotoVoice participants in Nigeria, through ACIC’s partnership with the Mcrissar Foundation. Photo sumbitted during the 2024 PhotoVoices program from a participant in Atlantic Canada. Similar to past iterations, this year’s group covered Gender Inequality as the PhotoVoice theme. A submission from 2025’s Dream Africa PhotoVoices program. 2025’s cohort covered racial inequality as their PhotoVoices theme, in partnership with Connecting to Africa and Algo Peers. 2019 Youth Stream ACIC introduces the first Youth Stream to our annual symposium. ACIC’s Youth Stream program aims to provide opportunities to Canadian youth to participate in our symposium programming, without the burden of travel, accommodation, and other costs that would create barriers for youth participation. Youth representation is essential to ACIC’s work because young people bring fresh perspectives, lived experience, and bold ideas that strengthen how our sector approaches global solidarity. Pictured here are youth attendees at ACIC events like the ACIC symposium and Youth Gathering. 2019 Spur Change ICN starts Spur Change, a 7-year capacity-building and knowledge-sharing initiative that provides support for Canadian Small and Medium Organization in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of development projects. The Spur Change program is led by the Alberta Council for Global Cooperation in partnership with the other provincial and regional councils across Canada. Its activities are designed to strengthen the ability of small and medium-sized organizations to deliver sustainable, equity-driven results aligned with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy and the Sustainable Development Goals; deepen the engagement of Canadians as informed and active global citizens; and support meaningful knowledge-sharing between Canadian SMOs and their partners around the world. Through its 7 years of programming, Spur Change has hosted workshops and trainings in Atlantic Canada, covering topics like Risk Management and Data Collection. Pictured here are Spur Trainings in Halifax Nova Scotia in 2025 and 2024. 2019 Hosting ICN ACIC begins our term as host for the Inter-Council Network. In 2019, the Inter-Council Network (ICN) transitioned its national coordination team to Halifax, with ACIC taking on the role of hosting the program. This move brought new momentum to the East Coast and strengthened collaboration across Canada, creating fresh opportunities for shared learning, sector coordination, and collective action in global solidarity. Above are photos of the Inter-Council Network’s Youth Delegation to AWID (Thailand) in 2024, and the Executive Directors of MCIC, ACIC, ACGC, and AQOCI alongside the Minister for International Development, Ahmed Hussen. 2019 Fund for Innovation and Transformation (FIT) FIT is designed to support Canadian SMOs testing innovative solutions that advance gender equality in the Global South. The program seeks to foster collective learning and capacity-building through the creation of knowledge-sharing spaces and practices. The Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security from Dalhousie University tested a comprehensive prevention program to protect children from being recruited and used as soldiers, with a focus on conflict related sexual violence in Juba, Central Equatoria State, South Sudan. Coady International Institute tested tools with women farmers to identify capacity building needs, such as accessing new technologies, credit, infrastructure, markets, financial and business planning/management in the Nyando Valley (Kenya) and in two districts of Gujarat State in India. Featured programs from our history 2018-2023 International Internships for Indigenous Youth Co-implemented by ACIC and the Northern Council for Global Cooperation, the International Internships for Indigenous Youth program provided placements for 99 youth with organizations in 7 countries in the Global South. The program was adapted to provide virtual alternatives for 55 virtual interns during the COVID-19 pandemic. IIIY Interns in 2018-19 in Kenya. This cohort of interns travelled to placements in Costa Rica, Guyana, Nepal, Cambodia, and Kenya. 2017 A “Feminist Foreign Policy” The federal government announces its new Feminist International Assistance Policy (FIAP) promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls as the most effective way to “reduce extreme poverty and build a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous world.” Image from Global Affairs Canada. 2016 ICN SMO Report The ICN publishes “Small and Medium-Sized Canadian Civil Society Organizations as Development Actors”, a report that presents evidence of SMOs’ competencies and values in the international development sector. It also discusses the negative impact that CIDA’s change to an exclusive call-for-proposal funding model had on SMOs. 2016 ODA update Canada’s net ODA is 0.26% of GNI. The paper develops a profile of Canadian SMOs involved in development cooperation, examines the impact of changing funding modalities on SMOs from 2010 to 2016, and outlines the characteristics of SMOs as development actors. The report is available at this link. Featured Programs from Our History 2002-Present International Youth Internship Program 2002 marked the first time ACIC received funding for the International Youth Internships Program! 4 youth participated in the first year. By the end of 2025, ACIC will have supported nearly 300 interns working in over 25 countries through our internship programs. Former ACIC intern, Andrea Germann in Jamaica in 2002. ACIC IYIP Interns in Tanzania in October 2025. ACIC’s first cohort of IYIP Interns in Tatamagouche in early October 2002. 2024 IYIP Interns in Tatamagouche before heading to their international placements. 2015 New global agreements The federal government announces its new Feminist International Assistance Policy (FIAP) promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls as the most effective way to “reduce extreme poverty and build a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous world.” 2015 Trudeau’s changes Prime Minister Justin Trudeau renames DFATD to Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and states that “Canada is back.” 2014 Engage, Strengthen, Connect ACIC establishes objectives to increase Atlantic Canadians’ awareness of key global issues and engagement in international cooperation; strengthen and build capacity for increased effectiveness; and facilitate better knowledge-sharing among ACIC members and other stakeholders. ACIC’s 2014 Strategic Plan shaped our strategic directions by focusing on three main pillars; To increase Atlantic Canadians' awareness of key global issues and engagement in international cooperation; to strengthen and build capacity for increased effectiveness; and to facilitate better knowledge sharing among ACIC members and other stakeholders. Pictured above are the ACIC Board of Directors and Staff teams in 2013 and 2015. Featured Programs from Our History 2014-Present Members’ Public Engagement Fund The Members’ Public Engagement Fund provides financial support to ACIC members for small public engagement projects. It emerged out of the previous Members’ Collaboration Fund, and has funded projects such as film screenings, conferences, workshops, and more. Text Text 2013 CIDA → DFATD CIDA is amalgamated with the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade to create DFATD: the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Development. This development reduces traditional mechanisms for civil engagement, and NGOs “are expected to compete in calls for proposals and act as contractors to implement the government’s priorities.” Featured Programs from Our History 2006-2011 First Voices: Connecting Aboriginal Youth in the North and South Over 5 years, First Voices brought together 24 Indigenous youth from Atlantic Canada, Guatemala, Chile, Honduras, Botswana, and the Philippines to create confident global citizens through a variety of art forms. Text Text Text 2009 Shirley Case Leadership Award Founded ACIC founds the Shirley Case Leadership Award in Global Citizenship in honour of Shirley Case, a former ACIC intern who was killed in Afghanistan while working with the International Rescue Committee. The award is presented annually to an individual or group in Atlantic Canada who has demonstrated the spirit of global citizenship and helped create a more just and sustainable world through engaging in meaningful global citizenship activities. Burris Devanney, winner of the 2016 Shirley Case Leadership Award for Global Citizenship at ACIC’s 2016 Symposium Gala. Shirley worked with ACIC as an intern in 2004-05, spending four months with us in Halifax before travelling to work with our partner organization, the NGO Coalition for the Environment (NGOCE) in Calabar, Nigeria for five months. Irene Novaczek, winner of the Shirley Case Leadership Award for Global Citizenship 2014, with previous winners Jackie McVicar, Joan Campbell, and Marian White. Stories From Across the Decades "Text." Bill Chislett International Development Specialist, MI International 2006-2015 Tying New Knots Under the Harper government, international aid is “untied” in name, but not in practice. Minister for International Cooperation Julian Fantino states that “foreign aid should benefit Canadian companies,” as demonstrated by partnerships between INGOs and Canadian mining companies operating in developing countries. Prime Minister Stephen Harper addresses the UN summit on the Millennium Development Goals in New York on Sept. 21, 2010. PAUL CHIASSON/THE CANADIAN PRESS 2006 Inter-Council Network The Inter-Council Network is formed to “create a national space for regional voices, to demonstrate our leadership in public engagement and to undertake cross country initiatives and programs." Featured Programs from Our History 2006 Both Sides of the Coin Microcredit Project ACIC organized a research project, workshops, and speakers tour on the topic of microcredit in Atlantic Canada and overseas. We organized two sessions at the Global Microcredit Summit, including a “Listening to the Borrowers” session which marked the first time microcredit borrowers had attended the summit. Text Text 2005 New Strategic Priorities ACIC’s new strategic plan brings with it new priorities: act as a forum for policy dialogue, create capacity-building opportunities, coordinate public engagement efforts, and strengthen our ability to function effectively. Text Text Featured programs from our history 2003-2004 NGO Coalition for the Environment ACIC worked with the NGOCE, a consortium of Canadian and Nigerian organizations working together to promote sustainability and protect the environment in Nigeria, to develop workshops on participatory monitoring and evaluation, policy development, and coalition building, as well as assisting in the creation of a communications plan. Text 2004 Relocation A growing ACIC moves our office from interim host Falls Brook Centre to Halifax. Text Text Featured Programs from Our History 2003 Travelling Wisely Workshops ACIC held workshops on Culturally and Environmentally Appropriate Travel and Tourism (CEATT). ACIC members created the workshop materials for over 180 participants across the Atlantic provinces. As tourism became the world’s largest industry in the early 2000s, ACIC partnered with the Fredericton YMCA (NB), Rising Tide Cooperative (NS), CUSO PEI (PE), Extension Community Development Cooperative (NL), and the Falls Brook Centre (NB) to host workshops on responsible and sustainable tourism practices. The first year of the Traveling Wisely project drew on the experiences of ACIC member groups working in tourism development in Belize, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Chile, and the Phillipines. The Traveling Wisely project directly engaged travel agents, tourism students, travel and toruism representatives, and the general public through workshops and one-on-one interviews. 200 A New Vision ACIC creates a three-year strategic plan, with objectives to engage the public on international issues; build relationships regionally, nationally, and globally; facilitate culturally and environmentally appropriate travel and tourism; represent Atlantic Canada on a national scale; and diversify our funding base. As of August 2001, ACIC already has 28 members. Text ACIC’s Board of Directors in 2002. 2001 Expansion and reduction CIDA announces offices in St. John’s and Halifax, with a regional headquarters in Moncton. Nearing the end of the Chretien government, ODA has decreased to 0.22% of GNI. ACIC coordinator Sarah Shima and the Honourable Maria Minna, Minister for International Cooperation at the announcement for CIDA’s new regional office in Moncton 2000 Reassembly In April 2000, a meeting at the Coady Institute in Antigonish culminates with the reassembly of ACIC! The Falls Brook Centre, an established NGO, offers to host ACIC at a temporary base. An interim council is named and ACIC receives CIDA funding from a public engagement fund for a series of regional deliberations on climate change. 2000 MDGs The United Nations announce the Millennium Development Goals, 8 goals to combat poverty, hunger, disease, illiteracy, environmental degradation, and discrimination against women. The Millennium Development Goals set a shared global agenda for 2000 to 2015, mobilizing governments, civil society, and international partners around concrete targets to improve human well-being. While progress varied across regions, the MDGs helped reduce extreme poverty, expand access to education, and improve health outcomes worldwide, ultimately paving the way for the broader and more inclusive Sustainable Development Goals adopted in 2015. Climate Change Public Deliberation Project 2000-2002 Climate Change Public Deliberation Project ACIC started our return with a series of CIDA-funded public deliberations on climate change in all four of the Atlantic provinces. Participants learned about climate change and policy options regionally, nationally, and internationally. Michael Warren, who moderated dialogues in the Halifax area said “Overwhelmingly, the consensus was that better public education efforts are necessary for people to grasp the importance of this issue... Participants articulated a strong faith in fellow citizens to adapt in the face of encroaching crisis” Taking the analysis from the first year of deliberations, ACIC hsoted a two-day climate change conference in Saint-Joseph, NB titled Global Climate, Community Reslience, and Responses from Atlantic Canada, which was attended by over 40 participants. In total, more than 20 deliberations were held in Atlantic Canada with more than 250 participants attending and contributing their ideas on climate change. 1995 Dormancy Due to CIDA cuts, ACIC’s office in Moncton is forced to close. A new board is elected, but without funding, the organization goes dormant. 1995 A cutting blow CIDA’s funding is cut again, ending their delegated funds “as well as the majority of the domestic public education programs in Canada's international development sector.” 1994 Becoming the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation In March 1994, ACIC is legally incorporated under New Brunswick legislation! With an office in Moncton, an 8-member board, and a paid coordinator, ACIC focuses on building membership, networking, and training workshops for dealing with organizational change. 1993 ARC Expanding A feasibility study finds that there is an opportunity, a need, and a desire for a Regional Council in the Atlantic provinces. 1993 Further cuts and tied aid Under newly-elected Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, major cuts hit the international development sector. CIDA’s Public Participation Program is abolished. In 1995, funding to the sub-Saharan Africa program is slashed by 20.5% over three years. Canada adopts a “tied aid” approach — international aid that requires the recipient country to procure goods or services from the donor. Text 1992 NAC abolished The 1992 budget eliminates the National Action Committee on Development Education. Text 1991 IDW The first International Development Week is celebrated across Canada. International Development Week (IDW) was launched in Canada in 1991 to highlight global cooperation and celebrate the contributions of Canadians working toward poverty reduction, human rights, and sustainable development. Since its inception, IDW has served as a national moment to reflect on our shared responsibilities, amplify global solidarity efforts, and inspire Canadians to take action for a more just and equitable world. Featured programs from our history 1970s to early 1990s Unionization and union support Early ARC members were involved in unemployment issues and unionization drives with groups like the United Rubber Workers and Canadian Auto Workers. Into the 1990s, the ARC supported projects with Maritimes Fishermen’s Union, the National Farmer’s Union, and more. 1989 A changing world The 1989 Canadian federal budget cuts CIDA funding by 13%. In the wake of the Cold War, donor countries like Canada adopt neoliberal approaches to development aid. Text mid-1980s CIDA’s reach In the mid-1980s, CIDA supports over 2400 projects led by 200 organizations, including CCIC and the ARC. Featured Programs from Our History 1977–1979 People’s Food Commission In a time when food prices soared and production declined, the ARC joined this nationwide initiative bringing together farmers, consumers, and food processing workers in a comprehensive inquiry into the food system. Their final report, “The Land of Milk and Money,” became the base for the People’s Food Policy by Food Secure Canada. Text Text 1980s Period of Outreach Before the professionalization of NGO work, development activism and education expands during the 1980s. ARC projects during this time focused on the local and connecting it to the global scale. Prevailing issues concerned regional agriculture, mining, fishery, and union issues. The ARC’s only source of income was an annual grant from CCIC, typically $20,000 (approximately $52,000 in today’s currency). Featured programs from our history 1976 St. John’s Mummers Troupe Named after a quote from a Newfoundland fisherman to an international development presenter, “What’s That Got to Do with the Price of Fish?” was a touring theatrical production about the struggle of local fishermen under federal fisheries policy. 1975-1976 Canadian international aid peaks at 0.53% GNI The recommended target from the United Nations is 0.7%, established in 1970. Featured programs from our history 1970s & 1980s Supporting liberation through performance During liberation wars in southern Africa and Central America, the ARC organized a series of events in the region to create international understanding. These events included political speakers, musicians, playwrights, and poets. 1975 CCIC establishes the Atlantic Regional Committee CCIC forms their Atlantic Regional Committee (ARC), the original ACIC, from a group of community animators across the region who saw regional social change organizations’ need for support. Staffing was contractual and there was no office, but the representative members were able to use a Small Projects Fund as grants for regional projects. Featured programs from our history 1970s Mulgrave Road Theatre Co-op Mulgrave Road Theatre is a progressive theatre project based out of Guysborough, Nova Scotia. The ARC also supported other theatre and arts projects, such as a travelling show based on the Baie Verte mine’s Steelworkers Union in Newfoundland. Text 1968 Canadian Council for International Cooperation (CCIC) is founded CCIC was created to "foster good practice among civil society organizations working to reduce global poverty.” 1968 Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) is founded CIDA funded international development assistance projects, both directly and through NGOs like CCIC.

Organizational Members Learn more about our organizational members. To join ACIC as an organizational member, apply here. Read the benefits of joining ACIC membership here. Aga Khan Foundation Canada Newfoundland and Labrador AKFC partners with Canadians and communities in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East to build better futures together. Committed to breaking the cycle of poverty, we help build strong, healthy, and inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Next Ampersand Collaborations Perluete New Brunswick Ampersand Collaborations Perluète, based in New Brunswick, is a creative incubator for social, cultural, and policy innovation. Through collaborative arts and community development programming, they work across sectors and borders, engaging professionals and emerging voices alike. With a presence on five continents, their work is rooted in non-partisan service, learning, and responsive collaboration, guided by the principle: “we go where we are called.” We are Ampersand. The ampersand (&) is a stand alone character whose purpose is to connect. It is a symbol for “and per se, and”. Unlike most letters, its single use carries a meaning all on its own; however, its purpose is lost without being used to bring things together. Such is the mission of Ampersand Collaborations Perluète. To bring together elements that are better for their union; and, to capture evocative narrative and imagery to rigorously convey these interventions. To this end, the organization’s mandate is to service non-partisan interdisciplinary collaboration that address complex social problems and interpret their impact. Next Apex Language and Career College Nova Scotia Apex Language and Career College (ALCC) is a Halifax-based institution with over 25 years of experience supporting international students and newcomers to Canada. Committed to inclusive education, ALCC helps individuals build language skills, adapt to Canadian culture, and succeed in a globalized world. Next Black Business and Professional Network NB New Brunswick BBPN Inc. is a community of black businesses and professionals in New Brunswick. BBPN aims to find, develop, provide opportunities, and guide the black talent pool to excel in New Brunswick. In pursuing a better future for black people, BBPN consciously seeks to transform various challenges and obstacles into opportunities. Next Breaking the Silence Maritimes-Guatemala Solidarity Network Nova Scotia The Maritimes-Guatemala Breaking the Silence Network (BTS) is a voluntary network of people in the Maritimes who began to organize in 1988 to support the efforts of Guatemalans struggling for political, social, and economic justice. Next Coady International Institute Nova Scotia Established in 1959 by St. Francis Xavier University (StFX), Coady Institute is committed to accompanying generations of global leaders skilled in the application of citizen-led, asset-based, and community-driven leadership for economic and social change. In collaboration with partners in Canada and across the globe, the Institute is committed to reducing poverty and transforming societies by strengthening local economies, by building resilient communities, and by promoting social accountability and good governance. Coady Institute is committed to breaking down and transforming the North-South divide by bringing people together to exchange innovations and learn from each other. Through relevant adult education programs, effective partnerships, and applicable research, Coady Institute is equipping community leaders and their organizations with the knowledge and practical tools needed to bring about the change they want for themselves. Next Community Forests International New Brunswick Community Forests International works in Canada and Zanzibar to protect and restore forests, help communities adapt to climate change, build economic prosperity, and champion social equality. Community Forests International is committed more than ever to centring not only forests but also climate justice in their vision, mission, and actions — understanding that by acting with justice people will be the restorative force that the world needs. Next Connecting to Africa Nova Scotia Connecting to Africa aims to facilitate opportunities for Nova Scotian groups and organizations of African descent to engage in partnerships with groups and organizations in Africa. The organization aims to engage in Africa’s development means to assist in the transformation and expansion of capacities for Nova Scotians of African descent, as well as Africans on the continent. Next Cooper Institute Prince Edward Island Cooper Institute is an education and community development centre in the province of Prince Edward Island, Canada. The main program areas of the Cooper Institute are livable income for all, food sovereignty, democracy, diversity and inclusion, protection of land and water, and improving lives of migrant workers in the province. Within these programs, they conduct research and popular education projects on provincial, national, and international level. Next Dalhousie University, Government and Global Relations Nova Scotia Next Dalhousie, Faculty of Agriculture International Office Nova Scotia Founded in 1905, Dalhousie's Agricultural Campus has come of age and stands at the threshold of a new era in agricultural education, training and research. The Faculty of Agriculture is a Canadian agricultural college and faculty of Dalhousie University located in Bible Hill, Nova Scotia and offers the only university level programs in agriculture in Atlantic Canada. Next Dalhousie, International Development Studies (IDS) Department Nova Scotia Dalhousie's IDS department is one of top development studies programs in Canada and train people to be active, engaged and informed citizens. Next Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security Nova Scotia The Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace, and Security is an institute at Dalhousie University that works to end the recruitment and use of child soldiers in armed violence and transform the cycles of violence. General Dallaire founded the Child Soldiers Initiative in 2007 and Dalhousie University, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, provided a home to the initiative in 2010. Since those early days, the organization has evolved extensively from a training development initiative to one that has applied research and learning that guides operational concepts and, at its core, contributes to a key gap in the peace and security architecture. In 2020, the Initiative became the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace, and Security, an international repository of expertise, research and advocacy to prevent the recruitment and use of children in armed violence. Next Ecology Action Centre Nova Scotia The Ecology Action Centre is a member-based environmental charity in Nova Scotia. Since 1971, they've taken leadership on critical environmental issues from biodiversity protection to climate change to environmental justice. The Ecology Action Centre acts as watchdog, convener, mobilizer and incubator, and engages community to create systemic change in the face of urgent, complex environmental issues. Next Farmers Helping Farmers Prince Edward Island Initially called the International Family Farm Exchange Association, this registered charity is now simply known as Farmers Helping Farmers. Working with their partners in Kenya, they have carried out several hundred development projects, worth more than $10 million Canadian, including funds contributed by CIDA. These projects are estimated to have touched the lives of at least 100,000 people and they're still going strong after more than 35 years. Next International Sustainable Community Assistance Prince Edward Island ISCA-AIDC creates opportunities for communities in need by helping them build sustainable agriculture systems. In its work, ISCA-AIDC strives to adhere to the values of right of self determination, dignity of individual, mutual respect, fairness, participatory process, project sustainability, sustainability and cooperative approaches. Next Latin American Mission Program Prince Edward Island The Latin American Mission Program began in 1967 in response to the Second Vatican Council call to share church personnel with developing countries, especially Latin America. Latin America Mission Program offers a challenging, first-hand experience on how most of the world’s population live. LAMP welcomes youth (or those young at heart) to participate in the Dominican Republic Faith & Justice Experience. Next Lunch in the Woods Consulting Nova Scotia Lunch In the Woods Consulting’s mission is to inspire and empower Canadians to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for their local and global communities. At Lunch in the Woods, they aim to inspire and empower Canadians to embrace mindfulness, engage in Truth, Reconciliation and Agenda 2030, foster global communities and be proactive global citizens. They aim to create communities filled with laughter, joy, peace, and deep connections while supporting individuals to contribute to this sense of inter connectedness. Their clients actively contribute to the SDGs and Agenda 2030, creating a world of social justice, environmental sustainability, and meaningful relationships. Next Marine Institute International Newfoundland and Labrador As a campus of Memorial University of Newfoundland, the Fisheries and Marine Institute is Canada’s most comprehensive centre for education, training, applied research and industrial support for the ocean industries. Located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, they are one of the most respected centres of marine learning and applied research in the world. The Marine Institute provides more than 30 industry-driven programs ranging from technical certificates to PhDs. Next Memorial University, Internationalization Office Newfoundland and Labrador Memorial University is committed to internationalization, international co-operation, studentmobility and cultural sensitivity. They welcome international visitors and strive to collaborate with educational institutions, businesses, governments, foundations, benefactors and alumni around the world in order to enrich research and teaching, and to ensure they offer outstanding programs for faculty and students. Next Mount Allison University New Brunswick Mount Allison has been ranked Canada’s #1 undergraduate university by Maclean’s magazine more times than any other university. The University offers a flexible liberal arts and sciences education that prepares students for any career path and to enter into professional and graduate programs. Mount Allison prides itself on providing a high-quality academic experience, combined with a variety of hands-on learning opportunities in a close-knit community. The University has been ranked the top undergraduate university in Canada by Maclean’s magazine’s annual University Rankings more times than any other university. Mount Allison prides itself on providing a high-quality academic experience through degrees, programs, and certificates. A high percentage of Mount Allison’s graduating students move on to graduate programs or professional schools such as law and medicine. Next NL Eats Community Outreach Inc., Newfoundland Newfoundland and Labrador NL Eats’ mission is to help families in need throughout the St. John’s Metro Area by providing them with hampers of food and essentials. NL Eats also focused on educating community members, especially about topics related to food insecurity. NL Eats’ dedicated team of over 85 volunteers has assisted more than 1300 families thus far. Next North Star Skills for Development Nova Scotia The company can be contacted to engage in short-term consulting assignments abroad, or for in-Canada mentoring of those interested in working abroad. The company can be contacted to engage in short-term consulting assignments abroad, or for in-Canada mentoring of those interested in working abroad. The company can be contacted to engage in short-term consulting assignments abroad, or for in-Canada mentoring of those interested in working abroad. Next Pure Gold Foundation New Brunswick Pure Gold Foundation works to empower and equip young people to develop positive values, have a growth mindset, and become well-grounded in their identity through transformative training. The organization envisions a future where young individuals confidently embrace their true potential, contributing positively to society while embracing their diverse backgrounds and identities. Next Saint Mary's University, Global Learning and Intercultural Support Office Nova Scotia Saint Mary's University's Global Learning and Intercultural Support Office provides students the opportunity to round out their education with hands-on experience and international connections by studying abroad. They are committed to ensuring an equitable opportunity in their study abroad programs and providing high-quality international learning experiences for students of all abilities and backgrounds. Next Tatamagouche Centre Nova Scotia Tatamagouche Centre is a non-profit educational, conference and retreat centre located in the village of Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia. Tatamagouche Centre holds international recognition for its adult education and facilitation training and programming. Next University of New Brunswick - School of Leadership Studies (Renaissance College) New Brunswick Founded in 2000, Renaissance College is UNB’s School of Interdisciplinary Leadership Studies and the first initiative of its kind in Canada. It remains at the forefront of leadership education in the country. They combine innovative teaching methods, rigorous academic content and experiential learning opportunities in small classes that together create a unique educational experience. Next University of Prince Edward Island - Applied Communication, Leadership, and Culture Prince Edward Island University of Prince Edward Island's Applied Communication, Leadership, and Culture program explicitly connects the communication skills and leadership training of a liberal arts education to successful post- graduation employment. This degree program is defined by its focus on the transferability of the written, oral and visual communication skills, the critical thinking, and the cultural awareness acquired during a liberal arts education to the world beyond academia. Technical skills, work-integrated learning (internships, cooperatives, workplace-generated projects), and career-related mentoring are key components of its design. Next Venture2impact Nova Scotia Venture 2 Impact uses human centered design and design thinking to approach complex challenges and work with global communities to increase digital resilience and advance gender equity, education, economic opportunity, and well-being for all. Next WUSC (World University Service of Canada) Nova Scotia WUSC is a Canadian non-profit organization working to create a better world for all young people. We bring together a diverse network of students, volunteers, schools, governments, and businesses who share this vision. Together, we foster youth-centered solutions for improved education, economic, and empowerment opportunities to overcome inequality and exclusion in over 15 countries across Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Next Wisdom2Action Consulting Limited Nova Scotia Wisdom2Action (W2A) is a social enterprise and consulting firm specializing in community engagement, creative facilitation, research and evaluation, knowledge mobilization and equity, diversity and inclusion. Wisdom2Action incorporated as a business with a social enterprise commitment in 2019, building on their legacy as a national knowledge mobilization network, founded in 2013, supporting youth serving organizations across Canada. Next Youth Art Connection Nova Scotia YAC supports and trains youth from marginalized backgrounds to use their artistic skills to develop personal economic development skills (business, careers, personal money management), diversifies the local economy (supporting youth from diverse backgrounds including immigrants and refugees to participate in the work force), as well as social end community engagement through focused social impact projects, or integrating artistic skillsets into larger projects or organizations focused on development. While YAC focusses on meeting youth ‘where they are at’; locally, their goal, as the name states, is to CONNECT them to provincial, national and international opportunities. Next