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

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Shelagh Savage Lecturer International Development Studies Department at Dalhousie University About Shelagh Shelagh is a long-time international cooperation practitioner who brings decades of hands-on experience to her work with students. Since 2020, she’s been teaching “Development in Practice” (INTD3002) in Dalhousie's IDS department, where she draws on real-world examples and lessons learned from working directly with communities and partners around the world. Before joining the department, Shelagh served as Associate Director (Partnerships) at the Coady Institute, where she focused on building equitable partnerships, designing programs, and facilitating practical learning experiences. She led and co-facilitated courses like Re-thinking Partnership and Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD), helping practitioners apply these approaches in their own contexts. Her work in the sector spans over 20 years, including roles such as Country Director with WUSC in Sri Lanka and Executive Director of VSO Canada. She’s collaborated with a wide range of grassroots and global organizations on youth leadership, peacebuilding, and volunteer cooperation. Shelagh’s approach is rooted in collaboration, and she’s partnered with civil society organizations across South and Southeast Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Caribbean, as well as international agencies like the ILO, UNOCHA, and UNICEF. In addition to her global work, she stays closely involved in local and national networks in Canada. She’s contributed her expertise to groups like the Royal Roads University Advisory Council, the GAC COVID-19 Solutions Team, and the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation. Shelagh continues to share what she’s learned through writing, speaking, and facilitation—focusing on topics like building equitable partnerships, strengthening leadership through learning, and supporting meaningful community participation in complex environments.

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION David Black Professor International Development Studies, Dalhousie University About David Professor David Black has spent many years back and forth between Ontario and Nova Scotia. Growing up in Downsview, a very multicultural and working class suburban area of Toronto, he was fortunate to live in the midst of many different, and rapidly changing, ethnic communities. His undergraduate university years first kept him in Ontario as he attended Trent University where he got his BA. Then he headed east to Halifax to Dalhousie to work his way through his MA degree. He remained at Dalhousie for his PhD but then found himself back in Ontario for several years, including a SSHRC Post-Doctoral Fellowship at Queen’s University. Then, it was back to Dal when he initially took up a one-year sessional appointment in Dal’s Political Science department, and was then lucky enough to get a tenure-stream position the following year. David Black's research interests focus on Canada’s role in “development cooperation” and in Sub-Saharan Africa (including human security, diplomacy, and the extractive sector); sport in world politics and development; and disability and global development. He has also published on human rights and identity in Canadian and South African foreign policies, and on post-apartheid South Africa in Africa.

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.

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

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

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

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.

About the Inter-Council Network www.icn-rcc.ca The Inter-Council Network (ICN) is a coalition of the eight Provincial and Regional Councils for International Cooperation , and is currently hosted at the Ontario Council for International Cooperation . These independent member-based Councils are committed to global social justice and social change. The ICN provides a national forum in which the Councils collaborate for improved effectiveness and identify common priorities for collective action. Rooted in communities across Canada, the ICN is a leader in public engagement at a local and regional level, and is recognized for bringing regional knowledge and priorities to the national level. Created in 2006 through a collective effort of the Councils, and supported through CIDA funding from 2007, the ICN has met and continues to address key needs of the Canadian international development community. Representing over 350 CSOs across Canada, the ICN is well placed to identify and address regional concerns, and is deeply aware of the needs and challenges of the small and medium sized civil society organizations within our sector.

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Youth Program Archive Re-Imagining Development Gathering Learn More ACIC’s Re-imagining Development, invites post-secondary students and young professionals in fields of global solidarity/international development to participate in a gathering of the unlearning, co-learning, and re-imagining of ‘international development’. PhotoVoices 2026 Learn More 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 various topics related to social justice, learn from experts in the field, and so much more. Youth Advisory Council Learn More ACIC’s Youth Advisory Council will bring together 4 Atlantic Canadian youth, aged 19-25, to ensure youth voices are centered in our youth programming. ACIC has a deep commitment to providing youth programs which reflect the diversity of Atlantic Canadian youth and programs that create opportunities for youth to connect, learn, act, and reflect, on what it means to be active global citizens committed to social justice, community development, and effecting change, both locally and globally, in sustainable ways. Global Citizenship Youth Conference 2025 Learn More Are you between the ages of 15 and 17 and interested in exploring global issues? Join us for the 2025 Global Citizenship Youth Conference! Symposium Youth Stream 2025 Learn More Are you aged 19–29 and living in Atlantic Canada? Interested in global issues, social justice, and international cooperation? Connect with peers and professionals, explore careers in the sector, and gain hands-on experience at ACIC's 2025 Symposium while reflecting on how foreign aid and global solidarity are shifting. All travel, food, and accommodation expenses are covered by ACIC. PhotoVoices 2025 Learn More ACIC's PhotoVoices Program enables youth to share the narratives they want to tell through photos, and connects youth from Atlantic Canada and the Global South in an experience of storytelling, skills building, providing them a space to explore social justice, while learning from experts in the field. IDW Youth Funding 2026 Learn More To celebrate International Development Week (IDW), ACIC is excited to offer funding for youth (ages 15-30) to host their own events! IDW Youth Funding 2025 Learn More To celebrate International Development Week (IDW), ACIC is excited to offer funding for youth (ages 15-30) to host their own events! Re-Imagining Development Gathering 2025 Learn More ACIC’s Re-imagining Development, invites post-secondary students and young professionals in fields of global solidarity/international development to participate in a gathering of the unlearning, co-learning, and re-imagining of ‘international development’. Global Citizenship Conference 2024 Learn More The Global Citizenship Youth Conference is a space for youth (aged 15-17) to discuss, learn about and take action on global issues. Hosted by the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation, participants spent three days (July 11-14, 2024) at the Tatamagouche Centre in Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia. Professional Practice Workshop Learn More ACIC Professional Practice Workshop invites post-secondary students in social justice, community development, and international solidarity (or similar fields) to participate in a knowledge and skill development workshop on March, 16 2024. Global Citizenship Certificate 2024 Learn More The first step in changing the world is understanding it. The Global Citizenship Certificate encourages youth to explore connections to their local and international communities and empowers young people to act as effective global citizens. Through virtual workshops, volunteer placement, advocacy projects, and connecting with other youth across the Atlantic, youth will learn and practice being effective global citizens. PhotoVoices 2024 Learn More ACIC's PhotoVoices Program enables youth to share the narratives they want to tell through photos, and connects youth from Atlantic Canada and the Global South in an experience of storytelling, skills building, providing them a space to explore social justice, while learning from experts in the field. Symposium Youth Stream 2023 Learn More As part of the ACIC Symposium Cost of Change: Championing Social Justice, Health, and Well-Being for All, ACIC is seeking aspiring professionals (aged 18-29) to participate in the Symposium’s Youth Stream. The Youth Stream provides an opportunity for participants to connect with their peers and professionals working in the field of International Cooperation, engage in networking opportunities, as well as learn about topics related to the symposium theme, all while reflecting on how this work impacts communities at the local and global levels. IDW Youth Funding 2024 Learn More To celebrate International Development Week (IDW), ACIC is excited to offer funding for youth (ages 15-30) to host their own events! Events can be around any theme broadly related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but they must take place during the week of February 5th-11th and, of course, meet provincial public health guidelines. PhotoVoices 2023 Learn More ACIC's PhotoVoices Program enables youth to share the narratives they want to tell through photos, and connects youth from Atlantic Canada and the Global South in an experience of storytelling, skills building, providing them a space to explore social justice, while learning from experts in the field.

Contact Us We acknowledge that we work and live in Mi’kma’ki, the traditional and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People. This territory is covered by the “Treaties of Peace and Friendship” which Mi'kmaq and Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) people first signed with the British Crown in 1725. Making us all Treaty People, committed to the ongoing relationship between nations, and to reconciliation. 210-2099 Gottingen St, 2099 Gottingen St, Halifax, NS B3K 3B2 902-431-2311 communications@acic-caci.org Name* Email* Subject* Leave us a message...* Submit