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 Cristina Jerez Fair-Trade Coffee Marketing Coordinator Breaking the Silence Maritimes-Guatemala About Cristina Cristina Jerez is a Central American immigrant from El Salvador living in London, Ontario located on the traditional lands of the Anishinaabeg, Haudenosaunee, Lünaapéewak and Attawandaron peoples. She holds a master in Global Development Studies from Saint Mary’s University, where she completed research on North American trade and the environment. There, she also participated in a Digital Narratives project with signatories of peace in Colombia. Currently, she is the Fair-Trade Coffee Marketing Coordinator for Breaking the Silence Maritimes-Guatemala. Cristina is passionate about global justice, post-conflict reconstruction, and grassroots approaches to peace and development.

< 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

International Development Week February 2 - 8, 2025 Join us in celebrating International Development Week (IDW) 2025, as we come together from coast to coast to coast to shine a spotlight on Canadian international development efforts. About International Development Week International Development Week (IDW) is an annual initiative that takes place during the first full week of February. Since 1991, IDW has brought together civil society organizations, schools, businesses, government agencies, and the general public to highlight Canadian contributions to international development initiatives from coast to coast to coast and overseas. This year’s International Development Week (#IDW2025) will take place from February 2 to 8 and will be celebrated by  ACIC, Global Affairs Canada, Canadian development organizations, and Canadians with events and activities across Atlantic Canada and the country . Learn More Events List ACIC and our partners will be hosting IDW themed events throughout the week. Stay tuned for information about events in your region. If you attended an ACIC or ACIC-Member event during International Development Week, fill out this survey for a chance to win a $25 gift card . A Journey Into The Unknown: The Migration Experience Through Film and Discussion (Hubbards, NS) Feb 08, 2025, 2:00 p.m. JD Shatford Public Library, 10353 St Margarets Bay Rd, Hubbards, NS B0J 1T0, Canada More info Details Trivia & Games Night Feb 07, 2025, 5:00 p.m. Community Hub on Joyce, 140 Joyce Ave, Moncton, NB E1A 7H4, Canada More info Details The Power of Dialogue to Build Community Feb 07, 2025, 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Zoom More info Details Cooking Around the World Feb 07, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Truro Fire Service, 165 Victoria St, Truro, NS B2N 1Z5, Canada More info Details Challenging Hegemony in Development Feb 07, 2025, 10:00 a.m. Zoom More info Details Gender Based Violence in the Workplace and Vulnerability of Temporary Foreign Workers Feb 07, 2025, 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Charlottetown Public Library, Dominion Building, 97 Queen St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4A9, Canada More info Details Reimagining Agricultural Development in a Future Post-conflict Haiti Feb 05, 2025, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Charlottetown Public Library, Dominion Building, 97 Queen St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4A9, Canada More info Details A Journey Into The Unknown Feb 05, 2025, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Paul O'Regan Hall, Halifax Library, 5440 Spring Garden Rd, Halifax, NS B3J 1E9, Canada More info Details What do a Match and Kite have in common? Feb 04, 2025, 5:30 p.m. UNB Menahqesk Saint John; IH104, 100 Tucker Park Rd, Saint John, NB E2K 5E2, Canada More info Learn more International Youth Internship Program Information Session Feb 04, 2025, 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Zoom More info Details Fiction and Global Development Feb 04, 2025, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Mona Campbell Building Room 1108, 1459 Lemarchant St, Halifax, NS B3H 3P8, Canada More info Learn more Weather Preparedness for Newcomers Feb 03, 2025, 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Immigrant and Refugee Services Assoc., 49 Water St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1A3, Canada More info Details Around the World with Trivia (Postponed) Date and time is TBD Scotia Curry, 9989 St Margarets Bay Rd, Hubbards, NS B0J 1T0, Canada More info Details Engagement Through PhotoVoices Feb 05, 2025, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Location is TBD More info Learn more

PhotoVoices 2026 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. 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 various topics related to social justice, learn from experts in the field, and so much more. Gender inequality is deeply rooted in our society. Women and girls worldwide are under-represented in leadership positions, refused access to education, economic empowerment, and essential health services, and are targeted victims of violence and discrimination. While all women face inequality, the consequences can be harsher for those coping with intersectional factors. Not all women share the same experiences, therefore strategies for change must also consider the effects of race, class, age, sexuality, ability, and nationality. Solutions to address these issues must be led by self-determining people in collaboration with their Communities and Nations. Given this reality, the 2025 PhotoVoice program will focus on youth who identify as girl/women and/or Two Spirit. Why get involved: Share, network, and collaborate with like-minded youth living in Atlantic Canada and the Global South 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 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 6 weeks from January 18 and February 22, 2026 (Sunday mornings) 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 More information about the program: 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) If you are an international organization interested in partering with us for our 2026 PhotoVoices program, you can learn more and apply here! Application Process Application process: You can apply for ACIC’s PhotoVoices program at this link Important Dates The program will run for 6 weeks from January 18 and February 22, 2026 (Sunday mornings) Eligibility Criteria To apply for this program, participants will: Be between the ages of 17-29 Be living in Atlantic Canada Identify as girl/woman and/or Two Spirit identified Be available for approximately 2 hours/week over the course of 6 weeks between January 2026 and February 2026, 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: November 10, 2025 Learn More

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

Re-Imagining Development Gathering 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 December 10, 2025 Important Dates Important details: The deadline to apply is December 10, 2025 Gathering dates: January 23-25 Travel dates (if needed): January 22nd and 26th Eligibility Criteria To apply for this program, participants will: Be between the ages of 19-29 Be living in Atlantic Canada Be pursuing a career in local/global solidarity Application Details Apply by: December 10, 2025 Learn More

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Eileen Alma Executive Director Coady Institute, St. Francis Xavier University About Eileen Eileen Alma is the Executive Director at Coady Institute, St. Francis Xavier University and held this position since June 1, 2022. She previously held the position of Director, International Centre for Women’s Leadership at Coady Institute, overseeing programming and partnerships on women’s leadership and gender equality nationally and internationally including initiatives for Indigenous women leaders and communities, and the development of the Circle of Abundance program initiative. Eileen has more than 30 years of interdisciplinary experience in international program development, management, research and practice. Prior to joining Coady Institute, Eileen worked with the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) for twenty years, as Program Officer in Social and Economic Policy areas as well as with the Embassy of Ethiopia in Canada. Eileen currently serves on the Board of Directors for Cooperation Canada. She is also a facilitator with Hope for Mental Health NS. She has served on technical committees for ICARDA, CGIAR and review committees for SSHRC and the Canada Foundation for Innovation. Eileen holds a Master’s degree in Conflict Analysis and Management (ethno-political) and a Master’s Certificate in Project Management from Royal Roads University.

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION James Parsons Executive Director Canadian Partnerships Division at Global Affairs Canada About James James joined the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in 2000 and has spent his career in international assistance focused on bilateral programs in Africa and Asia, as well as in the Peace and Stabilization Operations Programs. He previously served as Head of Cooperation at the Office of the High Commission of Canada in Kigali, Rwanda, and has lived and studied in Thailand and Indonesia, focusing on Indigenous Peoples’ issues. James holds a Master's Degree in Environmental Studies from York University, and a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Resource Studies with a Minor in Native Studies from Trent University. Since 2023, James has worked for the Canadian Partnerships Division, where he currently serves as Executive Director.

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 Shadi Mousavi About Shadi

From Aid to Action. ACIC Symposium 2025 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SOLIDARITY & GLOBAL COOPERATION Judyannet Muchiri Policy and Research Officer Inter-Council Network About Judyannet Judyannet Muchiri (she/her) is a feminist scholar–activist with experience in Canada’s international cooperation sector and the non-profit sector in Kenya, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Cameroon, and Uganda working on, researching and writing on gender equality, digital advocacy and civic participation. Currently, she is completing a PhD in Sociology, overseeing policy work at the Inter-Council Network (ICN), and co-leading the Africa Community Engagement (ACE) Hub.