Calendar of events - International Development Week 2025

Location: Ottawa, ON
Date: February 3-4
Time: 10 am to 8 pm EST

Organization: World University Service of Canada (WUSC) & its Local Committee at the University of Ottawa

This art exhibition focused on the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs.

The exhibition is about:

• raising awareness in a positive way,
• shedding light on the global challenges people face and the critical role that individual actions can play.

Location: Online
Date: February 4
Time: 5 pm to 6:30 pm PST
Organization: British Columbia Council for International Cooperation

This panel discussion will bring together three young women who have recently taken part in major international events.

A discussion with youth leaders on how young Canadians are organizing and mobilizing within global solidarity movements to bring about a sustainable, just, equitable world.

Location: Vancouver, BC
Date: February 6
Time: 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm PST
Organization: British Columbia Council for International Cooperation

Join us for this first workshop. it’s the start of a series of future workshops and performances.

• Come and listen
• exchange views
• express yourselves.
• No theatre experience is necessary!

Location: Toronto, ON
Date: February 6
Time: 5:30 pm to 8 pm EST
Organization: Cuso International and Centre for Social Innovation

Explore how food connects us to global development and environmental sustainability.

What to Expect:

• Inspiring stories from Cuso International volunteers and diaspora communities
• Delicious food sampling from Peru, Ethiopia, and Jamaica
• Opportunities to connect and celebrate global unity through shared meals

Location: Online
Date: February 2 to 8
Time: 6 pm to 9 pm AST
Organization: Inter-Council Network

Calling all young changemakers!

• Share your hopes and ideas in our letter-writing initiative!
• Write to policymakers and shape the future.
• Be a voice for the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
• Inspire change with your innovative solutions!

Location: Online
Date: February 6
Time: 11:30 am to 12:30 pm EST
Organization: Partners In Health Canada

Join us for an engaging discussion with:

• Basimenye Nhlema, Executive Director, Partners In Health Malawi
• Isata Dumbuya, Director of Reproductive, Maternal, Neonatal and Child Health (RMCNH), Partners In Health Sierra Leone

Our panelists will share powerful stories and valuable lessons.

They will explore how these initiatives have led to lasting change:

• maternal health
• gender-based violence prevention
• youth-friendly health services
• community empowerment.

Location: Online
Date: February 6
Time: 9 am - 10 am EST
Organization: Toronto Centre and CARE Canada

This webinar will explore the importance of closing the financial inclusion gender gap for sustainable economic growth and stability. The panel will discuss strategies to empower women economically and socially, while strengthening financial systems.

Topics Covered:

• Women’s financial inclusion
• Policy innovations
• Digital financial services
• Savings and loan groups
• Public-private partnerships
• Evolving financial ecosystems

Location: Whitehorse,
Date: February 5
Time: 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm MST
Organization: Northern Council for Global Cooperation (NCGC) and the Yukon Status of Women Council (YSWC)

Join the Northern Council for Global Cooperation (NCGC) and the Yukon Status of Women Council (YSWC) for an evening of powerful art and storytelling. This event will explore the global fight for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR).

This event features:

• a photo exhibit
• a film screening that highlights:
• the strength,
• resilience and,
• solidarity of activists around the world.

Location: Online
Date: February 7
Time: 10 am AST
Organization: Coady Institute

Coady teaching staff member Digafie Debalke will lead a dialogue on peace and conflict transformation with the 2024-25 Pathy Fellows.

This event will explore effective approaches to building peace and resolving conflicts in today’s world.

Location: Online
Date: February 6
Time: 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm EST
Organization: Good Neighbours Canada

Documentary screening featuring a case study of community-led development work in Bangladesh. This film highlights how the organization fosters sustainable development by:

• empowering youth
• supporting livelihoods
• utilizing an innovative whole-community support system

Following the screening, there will be a Q&A session. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with staff and reflect on sustainable development practices.

Location: Toronto, ON
Date: February 4
Time: 9 am to 4 pm EST
Organization: Centennial College: International Development Postgraduate Program of The Business School at Centennial College

Join us for “International Development Week (2025)”.

Students, faculty and professionals interested in NGOs’ activities, Sustainable Development Goals, and international development studies are welcome to join.

Location: Moncton, NB
Date: February 7
Time: 5 pm AST
Organization: Pure Gold Foundation

Join us for an interactive evening game, challenges, and discussions.

We will explore the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• what they are,
• why they matter, and
• how we can take action in our communities.

Come for the fun, stay for the learning, and leave inspired to make a difference. Everyone is welcome.

Location: Online
Date: February 7
Time: 12 pm to 1:30 pm AST
Organization: Global Voices for Peace

Join peacebuilders to explore how dialogue, storytelling, and listening can foster connection and build resilient communities.

Location: Hubbards, NS
Date: February 7
Time: 7 pm to 9 pm AST
Organization: Atlantic Council for International Cooperation (ACIC)

Learn about sustainable development and global solidarity with up to $250 worth of prizes from local businesses up for grabs!

Whether you're a trivia pro or just curious about global issues, this is your chance to learn, connect, and win!

Location: St Catharines, ON
Date: February 4
Time: 12 pm to 1:30 pm EST
Organization: Brock University

This exciting panel will highlight the global impacts of research taking place at Brock. Learn from past and current hosts of the Global Scholars program about exciting research collaborations which contribute to the achievement of the sustainable development goals.

Location: Online
Date: February 6
Time: 3 pm to 3:30 pm EST
Organization: Brock University

A conversation with Dr. Michael Naraine. He will talk about the Canada-Caribbean Institute. Learn about the invaluable work that Brock does in the Caribbean.

Location: Online
Date: February 7
Time: 11 am to 12 pm EST
Organization: Brock University

Learn more about the AWB project, Strengthening Health Economics Research and Outcome Evaluation for Sepsis (sHEROES). It strengthens health economics research on sepsis in Uganda.

Location: Various
Date: February 4 to 6
Time: Various
Organization: North Island College

Join NIC’'s Office of Global Engagement for International Development Week. You can hear from employees and students about their exciting international projects and experiences.

Location: Toronto, ON
Date: February 8
Time: 1:30 pm to 5 pm EST
Organization: Aga Khan Foundation Canada and Jane Goodall Institute of Canada’s Youth Advisory Council

Join us for a youth-led afternoon featuring:

• dynamic conversations
• networking
• presentations by youth related to intersecting challenges and opportunities in global development

(In French only)

Location: Online
Date: February 6
Time: 11 am to 12 pm EST
Organization: Éducation internationale

Join the community of practice of employees and retirees of the Quebec school system.

This community aims to promote the following in the area of international development and solidarity:

• collaborative learning
• sharing of best practices
• sharing of new knowledge in education

(In French only)

Location: Chicoutimi, Quebec
Date: February 6
Time: 6:30 pm to 8 pm EST
Organization: Centre de solidarité internationale du Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean (CSI-SLSJ)

Participate in a discussion on our annual theme, Democracy and citizen participation on the margins of International Development Week.

This will be a unique opportunity:

• Expand your perspectives;
• Learn from others;
• Reflect together on concrete actions for a more just future with greater solidarity.

Don’t miss this opportunity to make your voice heard and contribute to change!

(In French only)

Location: Trois-Rivières, Quebec
Date: February 6
Time: 7 pm EST
Organization: Comité de solidarité Trois-Rivières

Screening of the film Or de vie, which tells the poignant story of Rasmané, a 16-year-old working in the artisanal gold mines of Burkina Faso.

The screening will be followed by a discussion with Professor Cynthia Morinville of the Département des sciences de l’environnement [environmental science department] of l’Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR).

(In French only)

Location: Montréal, Quebec
Date: February 7
Time: 1:30 pm to 7 pm EST
Organization: Children’s Care International (CCI), Solidarité Union Coopération (SUCO), Carrefour jeunesse-emploi Montréal Centre-ville

Come explore the challenges associated with the job market in the international cooperation sector and re-energize your career.

Exchanges with subject-mater experts will highlight:

• possible career paths;
• skills sought;
• the possibilities of participation.

Location: Online
Date: February 6
Time: 4 pm to 5 pm EST
Organization: Cooperation Canada

Cooperation Canada will present the winner of the Karen Takacs Award. World University Service of Canada (WUSC) and the trustees of the Lewis Perinbam Award will announce the recipients of the Innovation and Impact Awards. These awards will honour two outstanding contributions: one from an organization and one from an individual.

Location: Ottawa, ON
Date: February 7
Time: 5 pm to 8 pm EST
Organization: University of Ottawa - Development Students’ Association

Join us for a cocktail where students can connect with various industry experts through informal conversations.

Location: Ottawa, ON
Date: February 5
Time: 12 am to 11 pm EST
Organization: University of Ottawa - Development Students’ Association

Join us to explore the theme “Daring Discomfort: Challenging the Blueprint of Development.”  This is a must-attend event for international development enthusiasts.

Don't miss our:

• conferences
• workshops
• networking opportunities

Location: Ottawa, ON
Date: February 3
Time: 4:30 pm to 8 pm EST
Organization: Cooperation Canada and International Development Research Centre (IDRC)

The evening will start with a reception featuring guest speakers. It will continue with a film screening. A discussion on the intersection of urban development and human rights will follow, after which key figures from the film’s production will answer questions at a Q&A session.

Location: Calgary, AB
Date: February 5
Time: 6:30 pm to 9 pm MST
Organization: Engineers Without Borders (EWB) Calgary

Attend a documentary screening of “Without Leaving Anyone Behind.” Engage in an in-person conversation with the geniuses behind the film.

Network with EWBers and Calgarians who are passionate about exploring the intersections of:

• energy transitions
• climate change
• economics
• and sustainable development goals (SDGs)

Location: Etobicoke, ON
Date: January 30 and 31
Time: 10 am to 7 pm EST
Organization: Ontario Council for International Cooperation and Humber Polytechnic

This symposium presents an important and strategic opportunity to:

• Reflect and learn. Think about what shapes the international cooperation and global education sectors in Ontario and globally.
• Draw insights from strategic foresight work undertaken.
• Reflect on, reconsider and help refine the Ontario Council for International Cooperation's (OCIC’s) current theory of change and strategic objectives. Help them to better align with the changing context and emerging needs.
• Celebrate our community and collective accomplishments.

Location: Online
Date: February 5
Time: 2 pm to 3:30 pm EST
Organization: Ontario Council for International Cooperation

The Ontario Council for International Cooperation’s (OCIC’s) virtual Career Panel will cover:

• Their personal career paths
• How their education and experience relate to their current roles
• Insights into the evolving priorities and skills needed for young people entering the sector
• Tips for students and professionals seeking opportunities in the field

Location: Various
Date: February 5 - 9
Time: Various EST
Organization: University of Ottawa - Development Students’ Association

Join us to explore the theme “Daring Discomfort: Challenging the Blueprint of Development.”

Don't miss our series of events:

• conferences
• workshops
• networking opportunities

Location: Online
Date: February 3
Time: 10 am to 11 am EST
Organization: University of Guelph

Talk with Bob Rae. He will reflect on Canada’s leadership role in promoting sustainable, inclusive and evidence-based approaches to development and international cooperation.

Rae is Canada’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN in New York. He was elected to the UN Presidency of the Economic and Social Council for 2024-25. He has been Canada’s ambassador to the UN since 2020. He also served as the Premier of Ontario from 1990 to 1995.

Location: Online
Date: February 4 and 5
Time: 1 pm PST
Organization: Victoria International Development Education Association (VIDEA)

Join us for a week of activities focused on our collective responsibility for reconciliation in the international development sector.

• Tuesday, February 4: Language Exchange – Zoom (1 pm PST)
• Wednesday, February 5: Mini-conference featuring Elder’s prayer, workshop and cultural presentations (1 pm PST)

Location: Calgary, AB
Date: February 8
Time: 2 pm to 6 pm MST
Organization: Alberta Council for International Cooperation

The Top 30 Under 30 Award is an annual campaign by the Alberta Council for Global Cooperation. The award honours 30 outstanding young people nominated by their community and selected by a group of their peers. They are recognized for making the world a more just, fair and sustainable place for all.

Location: Medicine Hat, AB
Date: February 6
Time: 6 pm to 7 pm MST
Organization: Alberta Council for Global Cooperation (ACGC) & Real Humanitarian

Delve into what role education plays in advancing sustainable development goals (SDGs). The event will highlight the broader contributions of education to other SDGs.

The event will also showcase Real Humanitarian's impactful work in Africa. This will feature inspiring stories of progress and resilience. The discussion will address how underprivileged communities face key challenges. It will also explore innovative solutions to ensure equitable access to education.

(In French only)

Location: Montréal, Quebec
Date: February 6
Time: 3 pm to 5 pm EST
Organization: Association québécoise des organismes de coopération internationale (AQOCI) et Maison du développement durable

This panel discussion will bring together three young women who have recently taken part in major international events.
Discussions will highlight:

• The connection between environmental, climate and social issues
• The critical role of active citizenship in:
• fighting climate change
• preserving biodiversity
• promoting women's rights and gender equality.Association québécoise des organismes de coopération internationale (AQOCI) & Maison du développement durable

(In French only)

Location: Montréal, Quebec
Date: February 6
Time: 5 pm to 7 pm EST
Organization: Association québécoise des organismes de coopération internationale (AQOCI); Centre d'étude et de coopération internationale (CECI), Katalizo et Solidarité Union Coopération (SUCO)

Join us for a fun and engaging happy hour.

Come and watch:

• The launch of season 3 of the podcast "Prendre part à la participation citoyenne" by the Association québécoise des organismes de coopération internationale (AQOCI)'s Table de concertation jeunesse en solidarité internationale (TCJSI), with the Centre d'étude et de coopération internationale (CECI), Katalizo and Solidarité Union Coopération (SUCO)
• Rosalie Bouchard's comic "Rêver le monde : l'héritage de Paulo Freire" (Dreaming the world: The legacy of Paulo Freire)

Location: Halifax, NS
Date: February 5
Time: 6 pm to 9 pm AST
Organization: Atlantic Council for International Cooperation & Connecting to Africa

Screening of the acclaimed film "Io Capitano". It tells a powerful story of migration, resilience, and the human spirit.

Guest speaker Mr. Bright Kwame Fiaga from the International Council for Immigration, Entrepreneurship, and Employment (CIIEE) will share insights into:

• the challenges and opportunities of migration
• its impact on home and origin communities
• the role of entrepreneurship in shaping futures.

We will follow up with an engaging discussion to explore:

• the plight of migrants
• the broader implications of migration in today’s world
• and how migration shapes communities and fosters global solidarity.

Location: Halifax, NS
Date: February 4
Time: 11:30 am to 1 pm AST
Organization: Dalhousie University

A conversation with Mustahid Husain, Author of Double Truths. Let's talk about fiction as a way of understanding global development.

Double Truths (Kantara Press 2024) is a novel and provocative institutional ethnography of the World Bank. It's also a story of lost love and the search for identity between Bangladesh and North America.

Location: Online
Date: February 5
Time: 1 pm to 2:30 pm EST
Organization: Canadian Partnership for Women and Children's Health (CanWaCH)

This webinar will challenge traditional perceptions. It will show unique ways the private sector can help Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). It will also present practical, innovative examples of how mutually beneficial partnerships can thrive.

(In French only)

Location: Sherbrooke, Quebec
Date: February 3
Time: 6:30 pm EST
Organization: Carrefour de solidarité internationale & Festival du cinéma du monde de Sherbrooke

Screening of the film “Amazonie: à la rencontre des gardiens et des gardiennes de la forêt.” Marie-Josée Béliveau, ethnogeographer and protagonist of the film, will be in the audience.

The screening will be followed by a discussion on the film's themes.

Location: Online
Date: February 12
Time: 8:30 am to 9:45 am EST
Organization: Centre d'étude et de coopération internationale (CECI) and the Pan-Africa Bureau of ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ

This webinar will explore how strategic co-financing can maximize the impact of international development projects. This event will highlight exemplary Canadian initiatives and their role as catalysts in implementing sustainable and scalable solutions.

Location: Ottawa, ON
Date: February 5
Time: 10 am to 11:30 am EST
Organization: Equality Fund & Global Alliance for Green and Gender Action

Canada is about to announce its future commitment to climate financing. This event will highlight the importance of bilateral climate financing reaching local organizations in the South.

We'll also be celebrating the multi-sectoral achievements of women's rights organizations and women-led community-based organizations (CBOs) in the Global South.

Location: Ottawa, ON
Date: February 5
Time: 11 am to 2 pm EST
Organization: World Accord, Inter Pares & Presbyterian World Service & Development

We will start off with a talk by Professor Maïka Sondarjee on locally led development and decolonization in the development sector. Then, a panel discussion from three Ontario small and medium organizations (SMO's) who actively practice locally led development. They will share insights on best practices and lessons learned. We also welcome other SMO's to share their own successes when it comes to locally led development.

Location: Winnipeg, MB
Date: February 6
Time: 7 pm to 8 pm CST
Organization: Manitoba Council for International Cooperation

Join us in a thought-provoking evening. It will feature a conversation between award-winning author Danny Ramadan and journalist Faith Fundal. Ramadan’s memoir "Crooked Teeth" will inspire the discussion. It will explore themes of identity, displacement, and belonging. The memoir challenges traditional refugee narratives with a mix of joy and sorrow.

Location: Brandon, MB
Date: February 6
Time: 8:45 am to 3:15 pm CST
Organization: Manitoba Council for International Cooperation

The “Generating Momentum” conference will focus on:

• the fast fashion industry
• its impact on all 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

Fashion is a universally relatable topic. It touches everyone, as clothing is essential for all. We designed this engaging conference for Grade 8-12 students and their teachers.

Location: Online
Date: February 6
Time: 9:30 am to 11:30 am EST
Organization: Ontario Council for International Cooperation

This event will focus on sharing powerful stories. You will hear about hope, agency, and resilience from South Asian and East African regions. We will draw attention to how feminist leaders and grassroots collaborations are shaping the future of development.

Location: Regina, SK
Date: February 6
Time: 6 pm to 9:15 pm CST
Organization: Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation

Screening of "The Great Green Wall". This award-winning documentary highlights an epic journey to the frontline of the climate crisis. It speaks of Africa’s ambitious Great Green Wall initiative.

Afterwards, a youth panel will share their perspectives on climate action and sustainability, bridging local and global challenges.

Location: Saskatoon, SK
Date: February 5
Time: 5 pm to 7 pm CST
Organization: Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation & Canadian International Council Saskatoon Chapter

Join us in a discussion about the local impact of having a diverse student base. The presenter, Gareth Charpentier, is a Senior Program Officer for the Student Refugee Program at World University Services of Canada.

Location: Regina, SK
Date: February 7
Time: 6 pm to 9 pm CST
Organization: Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation

Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation's (SCIC's) Global Citizen Awards brings people together from across Saskatchewan. Come learn from one another, be inspired, and celebrate the amazing achievements of people working for a more just, equitable and sustainable world.

(In French only)

Location: Online
Date: February 4
Time: 12 pm to 1:30 pm EST
Organization: SUCO-Solidarité Union Coopération

This panel will highlight inspiring volunteer journeys through a dynamic discussion. The rich and varied experiences of the guests will showcase the impact of international volunteering. The event will also include a question-and-answer session on volunteering opportunities.

Location: Edmonton, AB
Date: February 3 to 7
Time: 6 pm to 7 pm MST
Organization: University of Alberta

The University of Alberta invites you to International Week. All events are free.

Engage meaningfully with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through:

• inspiring lectures
• insightful panels
• collaborative discussions.

These events are open to the University of Alberta and its local community. They offer various ways to learn about the 17 SDGs and how engage with them. The annual International Week is an opportunity to get inspired to work together for a better world.