Engaging Canadians

The challenge: An informed and committed global community is crucial to international development efforts. The majority of Canadians say that countries like Canada have a responsibility to help less wealthy nations, but less than half of Canadians say they are knowledgeable about global development – and only one in five donate to the cause.

Our solution: In Canada, we undertake a range of initiatives to engage and inform Canadians from coast-to-coast on critical global issues. From classroom resources to traveling exhibits, and from fundraising campaigns to international internship opportunities, we mobilize the best of our country’s skills, expertise, and funds to build a better future for all.

Muhammad delivering a workshop centered around peer-to-peer exchange networking at the event.

From the ground up: A Canadian’s perspective on the importance of grassroots work and gender equality

“The first piece of advice I was given was ‘Respect the relationships and networks we have built.’” With a background

Dispatch from the Field: At the halfway point

Sophia Kara is currently working as a Health Systems Strengthening and Climate Action Fellow at the Aga Khan Health Services

Dispatch from the Field: Moments from Kisumu

Living in Kisumu, I was exposed to community and love in ways I never anticipated. As a Clinical Support Fellow,

A collage of headshots from the 2023 International Youth Fellows.

Meet the Fellows of 2023

AKFC’s International Youth Fellowship Program is a unique opportunity for young leaders in Canada to bring a global dimension to

Dispatch from the field: Cycling for peace & prosperity

Emilie Chiasson is a Social Science and Behaviourial Change Fellow in Kampala, Uganda, supporting the Aga Khan Foundation’s education projects

Global Reads: AKFC’s Book Club

In this book club, we explore recent literary works focused on international affairs, policy, or practice—with an emphasis on innovation, new voices, and diverse perspectives.

International Development Education and Awareness (IDEA)

IDEA will enhance the engagement of Canadians especially youth in Canada and improve their access to, and use of, equitably distributed global citizenship learning products, resources, and opportunities.

Meet the Fellows: From Kenya to the Kyrgyz Republic

Since 1989, over 500 young Canadians have participated in AKFC’s International Youth Fellowship, a program that has launched diverse careers

The ripple effect: Rameesha Qazi on gender equality and international development

Rameesha is the Gender Lead at the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH), helping AKAH develop gender policies and accountability frameworks, and integrate gender equality into their programs.