We are living in a time of unprecedented turmoil Violent conflicts, climate-induced disasters, and political polarization have created a global environment that is fraught with challenges Meanwhile, we have witnessed a shift away from international solidarity; foreign aid envelopes have shrunk and countries are adopting increasingly discriminatory migration practices
It is at this time that we reflect on the important work of ACIC, its membership, and all individuals and organizations that would seek to unite and improve global citizenship At ACIC, we are proud to bring together and support so many people that are continuously making an effort to create a more just and equitable world, even in the face of adversity. This is the heart of what we do.
Over the past year, we have helped provid youth with meaningful international internship opportunities, connecting them with partner organizations around the world. Our programs also support leadership development, mentorship, and skills-building, helping youth gain professional confidence, cross-cultural experience, and a deeper understanding of global development issues We also hosted numerous engagement activities in partnership with members over the course of the year ranging from trainings and workshops to networking events, stakeholder meetings and video screenings This year, we also continued to dig into our advocacy work; in the 2025 federal election, we helped mobilize members to raise their voices in support of Canada’s international assistance portfolio
Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we stand together in support of global cooperation, and we intend to do just that We remain committed to our mission and will continue to support and bring together diverse individuals and organizations all working towards the goal of creating a more just, equitable and sustainable world for us all.
We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our members, Board, and staff. Your dedication, collaboration, and unwavering belief in this work make everything we do possible. In a year marked by uncertainty, your commitment has been a steady source of strength and inspiration.
Jennifer Sloot
Executive Director, ACIC
HeatherDicks
Board Chair, ACIC
About ACIC
Founded in 1975, the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation (ACIC) has grown from a small regional coalition into a network of individuals and organizations working towards global solidarity in Atlantic Canada
Mission
ACIC is a coalition of individuals, organizations and institutions working in the Atlantic region to build and model just, equitable and sustainable communities, locally and globally. ACIC connects leadership across generations by strengthening members and partners, bridging dialogue and building networking and learning opportunities ACIC also represents and amplifies the voice of Atlantic Canada and connects the Atlantic with other provincial, national and international stakeholders
Vision
Leaders of tomorrow partner with leaders of today for more just, equitable and sustainable communities
The ACIC Team
Jennifer Sloot Executive Director
Jackie Dowling Youth Program Manager
Indigo Christ Internship Program Manager
Raushni Abraham Membership Manager
Wissam Issa Finance Manager
Choyce Chappell
Internships & PEI Coordinator
Lee-Anne Lavell Program Director
Mateo Gomez Angulo Communications Officer
Solange Mudahogora
ICN National Program Manager
Judyannet Muchiri
ICN Policy Officer
Hripsime Karapetyan
ICN Communications Officer
We would also like to thank our staff who joined us in various positions, bringing their experience, expertise, and knowledge to their respective roles:
Adam Khadiri
Tedi Buffett
Molly Boley
Mae Ward
Our Values
We aspire to be an organisation that not only addresses local and global challenges but transforms them We embody the core values we believe are needed as the foundation upon which we build and model more just, equitable, and sustainable communities.
At ACIC, we value: Courageous and Difficult Conversations
Decolonization, Anti-racism and Feminism
Lived Experience in all its Forms
Accountability & Transparency
Cultivating Care, Joy, and Connection
Radical Ideas & Transformational Actions
Intersectionality
Diversity, Equity, Inclusivity and Accessibility
Lifelong Reflection & Learning
Justice Through Participation
Board of Directors (2024-25)
Heather Dicks
Board Chair
Member-At-Large
Ryan MacRae
Secretary Member-At-Large
Kendall Kadatz
New Brunswick Rep.
Kathryn Lear
Newfoundland and Labrador Rep Treasurer (2025)
Abdou Kanteh
Member-At-Large (2024)
Fauzia Matyas-Jamal
Member-At-Large (2025)
Abby Dooks
Nova Scotia Rep (2024) Treasurer (2024)
Jenny MacDonald
Nova Scotia Rep (2025) Member-At-Large
PEI Rep. (2024)
Eliza MacLauchlan
PEI Rep (2025) Eliza Knockwood
Jennifer Elms
Member-At-Large (2025)
We would also like to extend our gratitude to our outgoing board members who contributed their time, leadership, and insight as part of our governance team: Bahar Haghighat
Eric Smith
Our Communities of Focus
At ACIC, we are a dynamic collective Our strength lies in the diversity of our community, each group contributing a unique perspective, experience, and passion to our shared mission As a coalition, we are made up of, and aim to consult, serve, and impact the following groups, while also co-creating our work and imagined future together.
Our members form a diverse and engaged community, bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the heart of our mission, and leading change initiatives all around the world
Our staff of committed and skilled professionals are the driving force behind the implementation and realization of our initiatives.
Our Board of Directors comprises visionary leaders who steer our organisation with expertise, ensuring sound governance and adherence to our mission and values
Our Youth participants and program alumni actively contribute fresh perspectives and experiences, and embody the lasting impact of our programs on future generations.
Our partners and collaborators play a pivotal role in fostering meaningful relationships and leading innovative endeavours
The Atlantic Canadian public represents the broader community we serve, contributing to the collective effort of fostering justice, equity and sustainability both locally and globally.
Since 1997, the International Youth Internship Program (IYIP) has offered young Canadians the chance to gain meaningful work experience in international development For ACIC, this program represents one of our most impactful youth engagement pathways, combining professional skills-building with deep cross-cultural learning.
Jointly implemented by ACIC and Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Marine Institute, and funded through the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, the program prioritizes youth ages 18-30 who face barriers to employment, including Indigenous, racialized, and 2SLGBTQIA+ youth By supporting four-month placements with ACIC members and their international partners across Central America, the Caribbean, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific, IYIP gives interns the tools to build global solidarity, advance the Feminist International Assistance Policy, and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Since the program relaunched in 2024, three cohorts of interns have completed their internship placements with local partners around the world Together, these cohorts represent the beginning of ACIC’s commitment to support 190 youth in completing international placements by 2029.
Already, 75 interns have gained professional experience in international cooperation, while building resilience, cross-cultural understanding, and confidence in their ability to contribute meani
For many, this prog work placement: it challenge assumpt and see global cooperation as something lived rather than abstract.
Indigo and Mica, ACIC and the Marine Institute’s IYIP Managers, are at the heart of the program’s success. We are deeply grateful for the care and commitment they bring to supporting each intern and partner organization. From recruitment and matching to pre-departure preparation and ongoing check-ins, they work closely with interns to ensure placements are meaningful, wellsupported, and responsive to partner needs Their steady guidance helps ensure that experiences run smoothly for both interns and host organizations, strengthening relationships and upholding the values that ground the program.
Central to the program’s success are the host organizations that welcome interns across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, the South Pacific, and Canada These community-based organizations, educational institutions, and civil society partners play a leading role in shaping placement design Internship roles are developed in response to locally identified priorities, ensuring that interns contribute meaningfully to ongoing initiatives rather than standalone projects.
ACIC has worked in partnership with the following organizations to host our interns:
Atlantic Genuine Progress Index; Coady International Institute, St Francis Xavier University; Connecting to Africa; Maritimes-Guatemala Breaking the Silence Network;
Nova Scotia Gambia Association; Wisdom2Action; Algo Peers; Asociación Bufete Jurídico Popular / Rabinal Legal Clinic Cambodia Volunteers for Society; Cambodia Indigenous Youth Alliance; Campesino Committee of the Highlands (CCDA); Centre for Indigenous Knowledge and Organizational Development;
Christian Commission for Development in Bangladesh; Colleges and Institutes Canada; Fundación Nueva Esperanza; Institut Pertanian Bogor; Mesoamerican Permaculture Institute (IMAP); Nha Trang University; Self Employed Women’s Association; Sir Arthur Lewis Community College; TA Marryshow Community College; Tanzania Gender Networking Program; The Midwife Project; Tra Vinh University; Women’s Fund Fiji; Youth Bridge Foundation
Since ACIC began implementing the IYIP program in 2002, 290 young people from across Canada have gained international experience through internship eli d b ACIC
FromAidtoAction
In June 2025, ACIC welcomed members, partners, youth leaders, researchers, and practitioners
Speakers from across sectors, including community organizations, academia, government, and youth movements, examined current shifts in global affairs such as reductions in international assistance, changing geopolitical alliances, rising military expenditures, and the growing call to decolonize development practice Discussions highlighted the implications of these shifts for Atlantic Canadian organizations and explored how networks like ACIC can respond collectively.
A central component of this year’s Symposium was the Youth Stream ACIC brought together thirty-five young leaders from across the Atlantic provinces for a dedicated Youth Day prior to the Symposium This space allowed participants to build relationships, deepen their understanding of current global issues, and prepare to engage confidently in the broader discussions that followed Youth participants then attended and contributed to the Symposium, ensuring their perspectives were not siloed but integrated throughout the event. By intentionally creating pathways for meaningful youth participation, ACIC reinforced its commitment to intergenerational dialogue and ithi th i t ti l ti tor
The Symposium opened with a keynote address by Lilly Nicholls, former Canadian Ambassador to Panama and High Commissioner to Bangladesh. In her remarks, titled “Canada in a Changing World”, she reflected on the future of Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy and the broader implications of global instability, shifting alliances, and rising security concerns Ambassador Nicholls underscored the importance of maintaining a strong commitment to gender equality, inclusive peacebuilding, and multilateral cooperation in a rapidly changing geopolitical context. Her address set the tone for the Symposium by grounding subsequent discussions in both urgency and possibility, challenging participants to consider how Canadian civil society can continue to advance solidarity and justice in uncertain times.
The Student Research Showcase highlighted emerging scholarship from post secondary students and recent graduates whose work engages global and local dimensions of justice, sustainability, and development. Presenters shared research findings with attendees through a poster exhibition, inviting discussion and critical reflection. This showcase created a valuable bridge between academic research and practitioner communities. It provided students with a professional platform to share their work, while offering symposium participants new insights and evidence to inform policy, advocacy, and programming
This year, we were proud to present the Leo Cheverie Significant Achievement Award to Ann Wheatley. A dedicated community organizer with the Cooper Institute, Ann has spent decades advancing education and community development across Prince Edward Island, encouraging meaningful public engagement on issues such as livable income, food sovereignty, migrant workers’ rights, disability inclusion, and environmental protection.
Presented during the ACIC 50th Anniversary Gala on the first evening of the Symposium, the inaugural Leo Cheverie Significant Achievement Award recognizes a lifetime of grassroots leadership and principled action
Established to honour individuals like Leo, whose long-standing commitment to justice, equity, and global solidarity has created lasting change, often behind the scenes, the award celebrates those who have dedicated years to building more just, sustainable communities across Atlantic Canada and beyond.
YouthLeadership
At ACIC, youth are not just future leaders, they are active changemakers. Our global citizenship programming is rooted in the belief that young people bring fresh perspectives, creativity, and courage to the most pressing issues of our time By engaging youth directly, we create pathways for intergenerational dialogue and amplify diverse voices while ensuring that solutions for global challenges are inclusive, equitable, and grounded in lived realities
Investing in younger generations strengthens the entire international cooperation sector. Youth programs nurture skills in leadership, advocacy, and storytelling; they create space for critical conversations about justice, decolonization, and solidarity; and they inspire young people to see themselves as active contributors to their communities, both locally and globally
These programs highlight the strength and creativity of Atlantic Canadian youth, and their desire to engage in global solidarity in ways that are authentic, inclusive, and connected to local realities. Whether through art, dialogue, learning, or action, ACIC youth are not only preparing to be tomorrow’s leaders; they are leading today.
The Re-Imagining Development Youth Gathering in Halifax invited twenty post-secondary students and emerging professionals to unlearn and colearn by questioning traditional ideas of ʻinternational development’ Through restorative panels, interactive workshops, and site visits (including a powerful tour of Africville Museum) youth explored how solidarity, justice, and decolonization tie global issues to Atlantic Canadian realities. Participants emphasized the value of connecting their academic studies and volunteer work with lived community experience, underscoring the importance of opportunities like this gathering At the Global Citizenship Youth Conference in Tatamagouche, forty youth from across the Atlantic provinces spent four days immersed in workshops and hands-on activities that connected the global with the local. From conversations on decolonization and activism to exploring food justice through a scavenger hunt at the local farmers’ market, participants described the conference as “educational but also so much fun,” with many noting that it helped them see new possibilities for their futures in post-secondary and, community leadership contexts.
For some, storytelling is rooted in solidarity. The sixth edition of the PhotoVoices program brought together twenty-five youth of African descent from Nova Scotia and Ghana, in collaboration with partner organizations Algo Peers and Connecting to Africa Over ten weeks, participants explored themes such as ancestry, colonization, and reclaiming narratives through photography and other artistic mediums
Connecting To Africa was this year’s PhotoVoices partner An ACIC member organization, 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
Over the last 6 years, over 2,700 youth participated in all ACIC programs.
“I have learned to start; I have nursed certain dreams and ideas for so long a time without actually executing them. This program has taught me to lift stones to be able to raise mountains; start small, write, just harness my creative skills. Also, it has taught me to hold on tightly to my culture and be proud of it.”
International Development Week (IDW) also provided a platform for youth leadership Through ACIC’s IDW Youth Funding, young leaders received resources and support to design and deliver public engagement activities across the region From trivia nights and cooking classes to panels and storytelling events, these initiatives reached over 100 young people directly and many more indirectly, offering multiple entry points for youth to learn about global issues and see themselves as part of the solution
“Being part of this [PhotoVoices] program has helped me see things from new perspectives and connect with people from diverse backgrounds. It made me realize that many creatives, like myself, are still navigating their paths and facing similar challenges; something we discussed during week 6. I truly appreciated how the program fostered a safe, supportive space where everyone felt comfortable sharing”
“I learned more ways to build a sustainable community and life The conference was a great way to grow my knowledge on different global issues and gave an easy fun learning experience which was amazing”
More than 220 youth participated in ACIC youth programs in 2024-25, each building new tools, stronger networks, and a deeper sense of their own role in building a more just and sustainable world.
MembershipPrograms
Membership is at the heart of ACIC’s work Our members, organizations, institutions, and individuals bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the international cooperation sector By supporting their work through training, funding, networking, and dialogue, ACIC strengthens not only individual organizations but also the collective capacity of the sector in Atlantic Canada. Together, we build a collaborative ecosystem rooted in justice, solidarity, and innovation.
Over the past year, ACIC has invested deeply in capacity building, creating spaces for reflection, and amplifying member-led initiatives This work has been vital during a time when the international cooperation sector faces ongoing pressures of burnout, shifting priorities, and competing demands. Despite these challenges, our membership programs continued to thrive, ipation in training, events, and public engagement initiatives.
Through our “Days of Learning” in Charlottetown and Saint John, members, partners, and communities came together to link local challenges with global realities In PEI, participants tackled the cost of living crisis, exploring its effects on underserved communities while connecting the discussion to broader economic forces at play worldwide
In New Brunswick, “The Gloaming” offered an intergenerational and intercultural gathering that brought students, elders, and practitioners together to explore equity, social justice, and inclusivity at a time when public discourse on these issues has faced significant backlash Both events demonstrated the importance of situating global solidarity within local lived experiences
Professional development remained a key focus. Through our LinkedIn Learning program, members accessed on-demand courses ranging from nonprofit management and climate action to allyship and gender equality The program allowed members to build skills on their own schedules while a live workshop, hosted in partnership with LinkedIn, guided them on how to use LinkedIn strategically for learning and networking
Later in the year, ACIC launched “AI for Social Good”, a three-part training series that explored how artificial intelligence can be applied ethically and responsibly within international cooperation and global solidarity spaces From the basics of AI literacy to real-world case studies on gender equality, climate action, and oceans, to the drafting of AI-related public policy briefs, participants gained the knowledge and tools to shape innovation with integrity
82% of ACIC members surveyed during the report period indicated gaining knowledge of a new approach or innovation.
Networking and relationship-building were equally central to ACIC’s membership programs this year. From an ice cream social in Halifax that drew in new youth voices, to smaller gatherings in PEI, to the launch of virtual networking chats, members had multiple opportunities to connect across provinces and share their experiences These informal but intentional gatherings created space for honest dialogue about the shifting foreign aid landscape, sector challenges, and opportunities for collective advocacy
International Development Week 2025 took place during a time of political uncertainty both in Canada and around the world. Activities ranged from film screenings and panel discussions to community workshops and cultural events, exploring topics such as migration, gender-based violence, food security, newcomer preparedness, peacebuilding, and careers in international cooperation.
This year, we also welcomed ten new members to ACIC’s network:
New Organizational Members
Aga Khan Foundation Canada
Apex Language and Career College
Ampersand Collaborations Perluète
New Individual Members
Aliyanna Gordon
Alyssa Hoseman
Austin I.P. O’Neill
Fauzia Matyas-Jamal
Rebekah Sears
Wilhemina Welbeck
Looking back, ACIC’s membership programming has been about more than training or events; it has been about weaving together a community of practice.
“It (ACIC’s trainings) will allow me to integrate gender equality, innovation, and sustainability into my programming, and increase my programming’s effectiveness.”
ACIC also supported members in amplifying their work through the Members’ Public Engagement (MPEF) and Partnership Enhancement Funds (PEF) Through the PEF, member organizations were supported in bringing global partners to Atlantic Canada, creating opportunities for dialogue, shared learning, and deeper collaboration between local and international communities The MPEF provided resources for programming during International Development Week (IDW), ensuring that member-led initiatives reached broader audiences during a nationally recognized moment for global cooperation
Six members accessed these funds, including Maritimes-Guatemala Breaking The Silence Network, the Cooper Institute, Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Agriculture, Connecting to Africa, and Pure Gold Foundation
"Access to the fund was crucial in making the event possible, and I am grateful for the support In the future, I hope to continue organizing similar events and furthering our mission of promoting international cooperation and youth empowerment"
TheInter-CouncilNetwork
The Inter-Council Network of Provincial and Regional Councils for International Cooperation (ICN) is a coalition of eight councils, including ACIC, representing over 350 civil society organizations across Canada Together, the ICN amplifies the voices of local and regional organizations, strengthens public engagement on international cooperation, and advocates for policies that advance gender equality, social justice, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Through feminist, anti-racist, and decolonial approaches, the ICN acts as a bridge between communities, policymakers, and global solidarity movements By fostering pan-Canadian partnerships, coordinating collective research and advocacy, and centering youth and marginalized voices, the ICN ensures that diverse regional perspectives contribute to Canada’s international cooperation agenda
In 2024-25, the ICN continued to advance its mission by strengthening connections across the country, engaging in critical dialogue with policymakers, supporting innovative research, and equipping youth and civil society with the tools to shape a more just world.
Since 2019, the ICN has had: 80% participants motivated to act on global issues
215,000+ program participants
During International Development Week (IDW) 2025, the ICN launched a national initiative to engage Canadians in reflection and advocacy under the theme Building a Better World Together. A standout activity was the ICN IDW Letter Campaign, where fourteen participants from all councils wrote personal letters to policymakers sharing hopes, ideas, and calls for action toward a more just and sustainable world These letters were distributed to policymakers across regions, ensuring local voices shaped national and global discussions
12 million+ people reached through communications
To further amplify impact, the letters were paired with unique graphic illustrations, turning words into powerful visual messages that captured the urgency and creativity of youth and sector leaders alike This initiative highlighted the ICN’s role in bridging community perspectives with decision-makers, embodying its commitment to participatory advocacy
A highlight of 2024 was the ICN Youth Delegation to the AWID Forum in Thailand, where eight youth from across Canada represented the ICN at one of the world’s most important gatherings on gender justice and women’s rights Delegates engaged in sessions on feminist economies, climate justice, and decolonial solidarity
As one delegate shared:
“This activity helped me realize that my current work lacks an on-the-ground component The delegation gave me the confidence to call myself an activist and inspired me to invest more time in frontline engagement. It was a turning point in how I see my role in creating social change.”
In October 2025, the ICN also sent a Youth Delegation to Cooperation Canada’s Leaders Forum in Ottawa Featuring delegates from across the Inter-Council Network, the ICN’s delegates had the chance to meet with civil society leaders and government representatives, including Secretary of State for International Development Randeep Sarai
ICN Learning Series
These sessions explore how decolonial, anti-racist and feminist approaches can be applied to public engagement and global citizenship education in the international cooperation sector by providing space for critical conversations and reflection
The ICN continued to strengthen its reputation as a thought leader through its collaborative research program, focusing on creating an enabling environment for decolonial, anti-racist, and feminist approaches to public engagement
In 2024-25, the ICN conducted thirteen in-depth interviews and five focus groups with practitioners across the international cooperation sector, capturing both challenges and opportunities in applying equitydriven approaches to public engagement
These conversations informed the development of new policy and learning products, including a forthcoming awareness campaign, featuring a report, zine, infographics, and self-paced learning modules on feminist and anti-racist public engagement practices.
The ICN also hosted a series of webinars that created spaces for learning, dialogue, and solidarity across the country
Collectively, these webinars illustrate how the ICN leverages its national reach to bring diverse communities into critical conversations on equity, solidarity, and transformative change
Global Citizenship Education & Public Engagement: Exploring Alternatives
Featuring councils OCIC, BCCIC, SCIC, and NCGC, this session highlighted innovative practices and challenges in public engagement across the country
Youth Activism & Solidarity Webinar Series
These sessions spotlighted youth activism as both local practice and global solidarity with two youth-led panels featuring the ICN’s own youth delegates as speakers
Global Solidarity in the Age of AI Webinar Series
Webinar series exploring the implications of AI through a justice and solidarity lens
Towards Equitable Engagement
Highlighting key insights from a research project examining how organizations are applying decolonial, anti-racist, and feminist approaches to public engagement.
Amelia’sStory
Amelia volunteered with ACIC through the YWCA CUSP program in summer 2025, supporting both the ACIC Symposium and the Youth Conference in Tatamagouche
She described the programs as “an incredible learning environment,” noting the care, organization, and intentional facilitation that shaped each space. As an emerging professional interested in equity, sustainability, and international partnership, Amelia found the discussions deeply relevant to her studies and said the experience strengthened her confidence in speaking about global cooperation in both academic and professional settings
“It is with deep appreciation that I look back on being included in these events this past summer. The lessons I learned with ACIC have carried forward into my current volunteer work going forward, and I continue to draw inspiration from the example of the team’s tireless dedication to creating truly equitable and inclusive spaces.”
Tiara’sStory
In 2024, Tiara attended the Association for Women’s Rights in Development (AWID) conference in Bangkok, Thailand as an ICN youth delegate, an experience that reshaped how she approaches health research, advocacy, and global engagement
Motivated by a desire to better understand gender-based disparities in healthcare, she immersed herself in global feminist conversations and described AWID as a catalyst that helped her see health inequities not only as scientific questions, but as social justice issues rooted in intersecting systems of race, gender, and power Reflecting on the experience, she shared that AWID transformed how she sees her role as a researcher and strengthened her commitment to advancing gender justice and health equity through collaborative, community-informed action
Since returning, Tiara has translated that learning into action, contributing to the 2025 Canadian Youth Roundtable Consultations on Chronic Disease, engaging with the Women’s Health Collective of Canada, and co-founding the Nova Scotia Women in STEM Mentorship Network
ACIC’sStrategicPlan
This year marked the first year of ACIC’s new 2024-2029 Strategic Plan, a roadmap that will guide our programs, partnerships, and operations over the next five years Rooted in our vision of fostering just, equitable, and sustainable communities locally and globally, this plan reaffirms our commitment to centring the voices and leadership of our Communities of Focus It also reflects the values that have long defined ACIC: collaboration, inclusivity, and solidarity, while positioning us to respond to emerging global challenges with purpose and care.
Through this new strategic direction, ACIC continues to engage Atlantic Canadians in global issues related to international cooperation, social justice, and sustainable development. Our programs and initiatives equip individuals and organizations with the knowledge, skills, and tools to take meaningful action as active global citizens United by a shared commitment to justice and equity, our coalition is collectively shaping a future where Atlantic Canadians are informed, connected, and empowered to build a better world.
ACIC focused on ensuring that learning opportunities translated into meaningful action across the sector and within communities The Days of Learning and Symposium brought together members, students, Elders, and community practitioners to confront issues such as social inclusion, equity, economic justice, and human rights Similarly, the Re-Imagining Development Gathering created space for post-secondary students and emerging professionals to critically re-examine traditional narratives of “development” and imagine alternatives rooted in decolonization, restorative justice, and solidarity
By connecting training to dialogue, policy reflection, and youth leadership, these events showcased ACIC’s commitment to ensuring that decolonization and antiracism efforts are not just educational exercises, but catalysts for systemic change and community action
LinkingTrainingInitiativesto Real-WorldImpact
ACIC continues to prioritize creating spaces where learning and reflection on equity, decolonization, and anti-racism can take root In 2024-25, this began within our own organization, with bi-weekly staff anti-racism meetings These sessions provided opportunities for mutual learning and dialogue, covering a wide range of topics that helped deepen collective understanding, challenge assumptions, and embed anti-racist practices into our daily work
By fostering this culture of internal accountability and growth, ACIC reinforced its role as a leading learning environment, ensuring that the commitment to decolonization and anti-racism is not only outwardfacing but also practiced within
StrengtheningAdvocacy Efforts
ACIC worked to amplify regional voices and strengthen advocacy capacity across our network The AI for Social Good workshop series (October-November 2024) helped members build digital literacy while critically engaging with the ethical and policy implications of emerging technologies By linking AI to the Sustainable Development Goals and equipping participants to draft policy briefs, ACIC supported members in developing advocacy tools that connect innovation with justice and inclusivity
Internationally, ACIC was proud to support youth participation at the Association for Women’s Rights in Development (AWID) Forum in Bangkok, Thailand (November 2024) ACIC delegate Tiara connected Atlantic Canadian perspectives on health equity and gender justice with global feminist movements Her experience highlighted the importance of youth advocacy in shaping systemic change at both national and international levels
EnhancingPublicPolicy Discourse
ACIC also facilitated direct dialogue between our members and key policymakers On January 15, 2025, ACIC hosted a hybrid roundtable with Manuel Lebris, Chief of Operations and Deputy Director of the PanAfrican and Regional Development Division at Global Affairs Canada (GAC) This gathering provided members and their partners with a rare opportunity to share their work, discuss challenges, and contribute to the evolving conversation around Canada’s Africa Strategy In March 2025, ACIC piloted a new Members’ Virtual Networking Chat designed to connect members across the region By fostering both policy access and member-to-member connection, ACIC strengthened the link between grassroots realities, peer learning, and national policy conversations, reinforcing the role of Atlantic Canadians in shaping a more just, equitable, and sustainable world
Nurtured Partnerships
FacilitatingReciprocal Engagement
Partnerships thrive when rooted in mutual learning and exchange This year, ACIC strengthened reciprocal engagement through the International Youth Internship Program (IYIP), delivered in collaboration with the Marine Institute By centering two-way learning, IYIP highlighted the importance of reciprocity in international cooperation
The PhotoVoices program further demonstrated this principle The program connected youth participants in Atlantic Canada with peers at Algo Peers in Ghana and Connecting to Africa in Nova Scotia, creating cross-cultural dialogue and shared storytelling These partnerships ensured that PhotoVoices was not just a showcase of youth creativity, but a platform for reciprocal engagement between communities across borders
FocusingOutreachand Connections
ACIC’s commitment to inclusive engagement came to life during International Development Week (IDW) 2025, which connected diverse communities across the Atlantic region in conversations about equity, solidarity, and justice With over 350 participants across ten events, IDW created multiple entry points for engagement, from newcomers exploring storm preparedness on PEI, to youth learning about career pathways in global cooperation, to rural Nova Scotians reflecting on migration and human rights
Through these initiatives, ACIC demonstrated its role as a connector, cultivating partnerships that are not only strong, but also reciprocal, inclusive, and rooted in solidarity
CoalitionCapacity, Connectionand Collaboration
TailoringCapacityBuilding Programs
In 2024, ACIC partnered with LinkedIn Learning to offer ACIC members access to a wide range of professional development courses on topics such as gender equality, climate action, nonprofit leadership, and digital skills Fourteen members participated in the program, exploring self-paced learning that complemented their organizational and professional goals The initiative also included a live workshop led by LinkedIn staff on how to leverage the platform for learning, networking, and career growth
DevelopingMentorshipand Peer-LearningInitiatives
Peer-to-peer exchange and mentorship continued to be a cornerstone of ACIC’s approach IDW Youth Funding empowered young leaders to design and lead their own International Development Week activities, creating opportunities for skill-building, public engagement, and mentorship between generations of practitioners By resourcing youthled initiatives, ACIC supported emerging voices in shaping the future of the sector Throughout this process, Jackie,ACIC’s Youth Program Manager, played an important mentorship role, working closely with participating youth as they developed their ideas and brought their events to life From helping refine concepts and navigate logistics to offering guidance on facilitation and public engagement, Jackie provided hands-on support that helped youth translate their ideas into meaningful community activities
PublicEngagement andActivation
DiversifyingEngagementPoints
This year, ACIC expanded the ways in which people could connect with international cooperation by supporting members through both the Members’ Public Engagement Fund (MPEF) and the Partnership Enhancement Fund (PEF) These programs resourced member organizations to design and lead public-facing events, reaching new audiences and showcasing diverse approaches to global solidarity From film screenings and workshops to panels and cultural events, members used these funds to bring international issues and international partners into local communities in creative and accessible ways
WorkingAcrossGenerations andFields
Intergenerational learning and collaboration remained at the heart of ACIC’s approach The Global Citizenship Youth Conference, held in Tatamagouche, NS, in 2024 and 2025, brought together nearly 100 youth leaders, volunteer mentors, and staff from across the Atlantic region Through workshops on decolonization, art as activism, and intersectionality, the conference empowered youth to see themselves as agents of change while creating space for mentorship and peer learning
The conference not only provided a platform for youth engagement but also demonstrated ACIC’s role as a central hub connecting youth, alumni, members, and partners across generations and fields These linkages strengthened the fabric of our coalition and highlighted how collaboration between emerging and established leaders enriches the international cooperation sector
Storytelling& Impact
AmplifyingCoalitionImpacts
Throughout 2024 and 2025, ACIC strategically highlighted the work and achievements of our members, partners, and youth through a variety of storytelling platforms Our programs, such as PhotoVoices, the Global Citizenship Youth Conference, and International Development Week, provided powerful opportunities to showcase lived experiences, grassroots leadership, and youth voices, ensuring that community perspectives were at the center of our storytelling
By weaving together these stories across events, reports, and multimedia content, ACIC amplified the collective impact of our coalition while creating space for reflection on how local and global struggles are connected
EnhancingOutreachand Visibility
ACIC also invested in expanding our communications channels to reach wider and more diverse audiences Our social media platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube) and monthly newsletters provided ongoing updates, stories of change, and opportunities for engagement, reaching thousands of Atlantic Canadians each month
A key part of this work was sharing resources, learning opportunities, and sector updates with our network From calls for proposals and training opportunities to career postings and youth programs, ACIC acted as a connector, ensuring that members, youth, and partners could access the tools and information they needed to grow their impact Together, these efforts ensured that ACIC’s work, and the work of our members and partners, was not only seen but celebrated, building recognition of the sector’s value and inspiring more Atlantic Canadians to take part in global justice efforts
Organizational Strengthening
ACIC continued to invest in staff and board development to ensure our capacity was aligned with our mission Staff accessed LinkedIn Learning as a professional development resource, expanding skills in areas such as gender equality, nonprofit management, and digital tools In October 2024, the Board and Staff Retreat at the Tatamagouche Centre provided a dedicated space for reflection, team-building, and operationalizing our new strategic plan
Through these investments in people and culture, ACIC reinforced a collaborative and resilient environment, ensuring that our team remains grounded in shared values while advancing impactful initiatives across Atlantic Canada
ACIC also strengthened its financial resilience by diversifying funding streams and expanding opportunities for collaboration Support through Canada Summer Jobs enabled us to bring on additional staff capacity during the summer months, while agreements with the Clean Foundation (Nova Scotia), University of New Brunswick School of Leadership Studies (formerly UNB Renaissance College), and Mount Allison University allowed us to host student interns who provided critical communications and program support
These partnerships not only expanded ACIC’s reach and impact, but also created meaningful opportunities for students and emerging professionals to engage with the sector By continuing to explore and secure diverse funding sources, ACIC is building the foundation for longterm organizational sustainability
BTS (Maritimes-Guatemala Breaking the Silence Network)
Coady International Institute St Francis Xavier University; Connecting to Africa; Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace, And Security; Dalhousie University, Faculty of Agriculture International Office; Dalhousie University, International Development Studies Department; Dalhousie University, Government and Global Relations Office; Ecology Action Centre; GPI Atlantic; International Development Education and Awareness Society (IDEAS);
Lunch in the Woods Consulting; North Star Skills for Development; Nova Scotia Gambia Association;
Saint Mary’s University, Global Learning and Intercultural Support Office;
Saint Mary’s University International Development Studies
Undergraduate Society; Tatamagouche Centre; Venture2Impact; Wisdom2Action Consulting; World University Service of Canada;
IndividualMembers
Aliyanna Gordon
Alyssa Hoseman
Austin I P O’Neill
Becca Bishop
Bobby Zahra
Camila Dos Res Santos da Silva
Catherine Ronohan
Derlene Dorion
Eliza Knockwood
Fauzia Matyas-Jamal Godspromise Effiong
Hareesh Sahadevan
Heather Dicks
Jennifer Fox
Jennifer King
Kaitlyn Keleher
Prince Edward Island (PE)
The Cooper Institute; Farmers Helping Farmers; International Sustainable Community Assistance (ISCA-AIDC); Latin American Mission Program (LAMP); University of PEI, Applied Communication, Leadership, and Culture
New Brunswick (NB)
Ampersand Collaborations Perluète; Black Business and Professional Network; Community Forests International; Mount Allison University; Pure Gold Foundation; University of New Brunswick School of Leadership Studies (formerly known as Renaissance College);
Newfoundland & Labrador (NL) Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland; Memorial University of Newfoundland, International Office;
