CanWaCH

WUSC art exhibition: "Through my eyes: art for development"
2025-02-03 10:00 - 2025-02-04 20:00 (America/Toronto) | Jock Turcot University Centre, 58 University Private, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 9A7, Canada
To mark International Development Week in February, the art exhibition “Through my eyes: art for development” will be hosted by the University of Ottawa’s WUSC Local Committee, a dynamic campus-based group who support our organization’s awareness-raising efforts. This art exhibition brings together the work of 24 artists from Ghana, Malawi, and Canada. The diversity of their family backgrounds, professional experiences, the contexts in which they lived, as well as the challenges they faced daily, has brought extra depth to their work.
As part of its global development efforts, WUSC created this art exhibition focused on the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs. The exhibition isn’t just about delivering a message, it 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.
The art exhibition is free to enter and open to interested visitors from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on February 3 and 4 at Jock Turcot University Centre at the University of Ottawa. The Opening Night Launch Event will be on February 3rd (5-8 p.m. EST) with performances from the student community. The registration link to attend the launch event will be shared soon on the local committee’s social media accounts. However, no registration is required to enter the Art Exhibition display.
For more information, contact us at publicengagement@wusc.ca or visit the art exhibition’s website.

Building Bridges: Pathways and Opportunities in Global Health
2025-02-03 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Toronto) | Room 2108, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute & Virtually
Join us for our upcoming event, ‘Building Bridges: Pathways and Opportunities in Global Health‘, on Monday, February 3.
This event will focus on the power of our everyday work to create meaningful impact beyond borders. By broadening our perspective and embracing our shared challenges, we unlock new opportunities to advance health equity and expand access to care worldwide. Together, we’ll delve into the journeys of clinicians and researchers from our community who, through unexpected pathways, are making contributions to Global Health, and inspiring us all to see the global potential in our work.
Panelists:

Dr Shahrzad Joharifard, Pediatric Surgeon & Clinical Assistant Professor, Dep’t of Surgery, UBC
Dr Fiona Muttalib, Pediatric Intensivist & Clinical Assistant Professor, Dep’t of Pediatrics, UBC
Dr Harpreet Chhina, Research Associate, Dep’t of Orthopedics, UBC
Dr Michael Kobor, Professor, Dep’t of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, UBC & UBC Chair in Healthy Aging

Location: Room V2-222, CSB; Zoom link will be provided to those attending virtually after registering.
Learn more and register here.

International Development Week Reception and Film Screening
2025-02-03 16:30 - 20:00 (America/Toronto) | La Nouvelle Scène Gilles Desjardins, 333 King Edward Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
As part of International Development Week 2025, Cooperation Canada and International Development Research Centre (IDRC) are proud to present a reception and a screening of The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos​, a powerful, thought-provoking film that offers a riveting critique of urban development and forced evictions in Africa’s largest city, Lagos.
Directed by the Agbajowo Collective, this striking debut film combines elements of thriller, documentary, and magical realism to tell the story of Jawu, a warrior spirit trapped in the harsh realities of Lagos’ floating slums. Portrayed by the talented Temi Ami-Williams (known for Eyimofe), Jawu embarks on a perilous journey after uncovering the dark secrets of corrupt politicians and confronting the brutal reality of evictions that threaten her home and community. Although this is a work of fiction many of the scenes described are based on true events that happened over the course of the violent forced eviction of over 30,000 from the Egun fishing community of Otodo Gbame​ between November 2016 and April 2017.
Join us for on February 3, 2025 at 4:30 pm EST for an introductory reception (free admittance serving light snacks of Nigerian cuisine with special presentations by Cooperation Canada, IDRC and Justice Empowerment Initiatives​) followed by this eye-opening screening (minimum $5 PWYC fee) and stay for a discussion on the intersection of urban development and human rights along with a Q&A with key figures from the film’s production.

Film Synopsis:
Jawu, a mother and small market vendor, lives humbly with her son in the Agbojedo community, a floating slum situated on the lagoon that gives Lagos its name. As rumors spread about government plans to demolish their homes for new development, Jawu stumbles upon a corrupt politician burying a stash of stolen cash. Seeing this as a chance to change her life, she takes the money. However, she soon discovers that her actions have set her on a path that will require more than she could ever imagine—facing a battle for survival and the future of her community.
Through this stunning narrative, The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos explores themes of poverty, power, and the destruction of communities, all while blending real-life concerns with the magic of Nigerian storytelling. With an electrifying performance from Temi Ami-Williams and a production that took seven years to bring to the screen, this film is not only a testament to the resilience of Lagos’ residents but also a call to action regarding the issues of forced evictions and unchecked development.
Film Details:

Length: 101 minutes
Languages: Nigerian Pidgin, Yoruba, English, Egun – English subtitles
Country of Origin: Nigeria, Germany, South Africa, United States
Content Advisory: Depictions of suicide, violence, and mature themes

Learn about the film’s impact campaign​ in support of the resettlement plan​, and make a direct donation through this link​, or by writing a cheque to “Justice & Empowerment Initiatives Inc.”. Cheques can be mailed to 91 Cornell Street, Newton, Massachusetts, 02462, USA). Every dollar counts, and will help make the film — and its impact — everything it can be.

Through my eyes: Art for development
2025-02-03 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Toronto) | Jock Turcot University Centre, 58 University Private, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 9A7, Canada
We are excited to announce that we are hosting the WUSC “Through My Eyes: Art for Development” exhibition!
This unique exhibit features 17 artworks exploring the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their impact on communities worldwide.
Don’t miss this experience!
? Exhibition Dates: February 3 & 4
? Location: UCU
? Don’t miss the special event on February 3rd, 5–8 PM, where we will bring these goals to life in an unforgettable way and serve delicious food!

Together: A story of a Good Neighbours Community Development Project in Bangladesh
2025-02-04 10:30 - 12:00 (America/Toronto) | Centennial College, 941 Progress Ave, Scarborough, Ontario, M1G 3T8, Canada
An interactive documentary screening of a case study of community-led development work in Bangladesh.

Join Good Neighbours Canada for a documentary screening of a case study of community-led development work in Bangladesh, highlighting how this organization fosters sustainable development through empowering young people, supporting livelihoods and utilizing an innovative whole-community support system. The screening will be followed by an interactive Q&A and reflective discussions, where attendees will be invited to engage with Good Neighbours staff and one another while thinking about sustainable development practice.

Location? Event Center, Centennial College, 941 Progress Ave, Scarborough, ON M1G 3T8

Canada and the Global Financing Facility at 10: Delivering lifesaving care for women, children and adolescents
2025-02-05 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Toronto) | Global centre for pluralism, 2330 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N0C7, Canada
With leadership from Canada in support of the G8 Muskoka Initiative, the Global Financing Facility (GFF) was launched in 2015 to accelerate efforts to end preventable maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent deaths by 2030.
This event will mark 10 years of GFF results to unlock additional financing and expand access to affordable, lifesaving health care for hundreds of millions in the GFF’s 36 partner countries. Speakers will reflect on Canada’s pivotal role in supporting the GFF as an innovative global partnership, and the road ahead for continuing advancements in health and nutrition for women, children, and adolescents.
We hope you can join us this week at #IDW2025!
Register here!

Together: A story of a Good Neighbours Community Development Project in Bangladesh
2025-02-06 12:30 - 13:30 (America/Toronto) | Virtual, Canada
An interactive documentary screening of a case study of community-led development work in Bangladesh.

Join Good Neighbours Canada for a documentary screening of a case study of community-led development work in Bangladesh, highlighting how this organization fosters sustainable development through empowering young people, supporting livelihoods and utilizing an innovative whole-community support system. The screening will be followed by an interactive Q&A and reflective discussions, where attendees will be invited to engage with Good Neighbours staff and one another while thinking about sustainable development practice.

Come Savour the Stories, Taste the World!
2025-02-06 17:30 - 20:00 (America/Toronto) | Centre for Social Innovation, 192 Spadina Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5T 2C2, Canada
Join Cuso International for Taste of the World during International Development Week 2025! Our event, in partnership with Global Affairs Canada, celebrates Canada’s 35-year commitment to international development, highlighting the profound unifying power of food.
Shared meals connect us beyond borders, transforming strangers into allies.

Date: Thursday, February 6th, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Centre for Social Innovation, 192 Spadina Ave. Toronto ON
Please register here

Through storytelling, recipe sharing, and communal dining, we’ll explore how food interconnects with global development and the environment.
You’ll hear inspiring stories from Cuso International volunteers and diaspora communities, all while experiencing the transformative power of a shared meal.
Come Savour the Stories, Taste the World!
This event is in partnership with the Centre for Social Innovation

Cash Bar for alcoholic drinks
Free nonalcoholic beverages
Food sampling from regions of Peru, Ethiopia and Jamaica

Moving the needle: Women & women's health at the forefront of science 2025
2025-02-07 08:30 - 18:00 (America/Toronto) | MaRS Discovery District – Auditorium, 101 College St., Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Join us in-person at the MaRS Discovery District to celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025! Enjoy panel discussions, networking opportunities, refreshments, and more.
This free event is for undergraduate or post-graduate students, trainees, and aspiring or seasoned professionals in science.
MORNING SESSION: Pathways to Discovery

Features plenary speaker, Dr. Sheena Josselyn, Senior Scientist, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Living Library networking groups, Rapid Fire Science presentations, and panel discussions with women leaders from top research institutes
Hosted by Women’s College Hospital Research and Innovation Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Baycrest, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, and Sinai Health Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute
Hosted by UHN Women, a group of students from the University of Toronto will be participating in a Wikipedia Edit-A-Thon, simultaneously as the presentations.
For inquiries regarding this session, please contact Denada Alushaj at denada.alushaj@wchospital.ca

AFTERNOON SESSION: Trajectory to Translation

Features a discussion with leading women’s health innovators and provides opportunities to connect with experts in areas including raising capital, IP, business strategy, and more
Hosted by Women’s College Hospital Research and Innovation Institute, PRiME at University of Toronto and MaRS
For inquiries regarding this session, please contact Louise Pichette at lpichette@marsdd.com

REGISTRATION

Registration is required to secure your spot and spots are limited.

Please note: Registration for the morning and afternoon sessions is separate.

You are welcome to register for one session or both.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Fireside Chat and Networking Lunch with France's Special Envoy on Nutrition Brieuc Pont & Assistant Deputy Minister Leslie Norton
2025-02-07 11:30 - 13:30 (America/Toronto) | Nutrition International HQ, 180 Elgin Street, 8th Floor, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
As part of International Development Week, Nutrition International and Results Canada are pleased to invite you to a fireside chat and networking lunch with Monsieur Brieuc Pont, France’s Special Envoy on Nutrition and Secretary General of the #NutritionForGrowth Summit, and Global Affairs Canada’s Assistant Deputy Minister Leslie Norton.

This gathering provides an opportunity to hear the Special Envoy’s vision for this crucial moment to advance nutrition, celebrate Canada’s leadership, and call for new, ambitious commitments. Your participation will ensure a robust and impactful dialogue.

Please RSVP for the event by this Tuesday, February 4th by filling out this form https://bit.ly/NutritionFiresideChat

We look forward to welcoming you for an opportunity to amplify Canada’s impact on global nutrition and foster meaningful connections.

International Development Week Insight Exchange
2025-02-08 13:30 - 17:00 (America/Toronto) | Centre for Social Innovation, 192 Spadina Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5T 2C2, Canada
This International Development Week (IDW), join Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC), in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada’s Youth Advisory Council, for a youth-led afternoon featuring dynamic conversations, networking, and presentations by youth related to intersecting challenges and opportunities in global development.
IDW is held annually in the first week of February to highlight Canada’s role in fighting poverty and encourage Canadians to get involved in global development.
This free networking event is designed to connect people from diverse sectors, generations, and career paths who are interested in supporting sustainable, inclusive initiatives that empower communities in Canada and around the world.
This public afternoon event will feature:

Reflections from youth on the intersecting issues of climate resilience, sexual and reproductive health and rights, conservation, and economic empowerment
Perspectives from sector leaders
An insight exchange (a facilitated opportunity to meet different people with conversation prompts)
Informal networking

The following organizations will have representatives available for you to connect with: Aga Khan Foundation Canada, Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, Oxfam Canada, CARE Canada, Youth Challenge International, WUSC, and more!
Light refreshments will be served.
Notes:

While AKFC and JGIC are hosting this event together, please be aware that JGIC is offering some separate programming throughout the day. Please visit their event site to learn more and register for their activities directly.
If you have already filled out a registration form for the AKFC-hosted roundtables, you are already registered for the afternoon portion.
If you or your organization would like to set up a table with collateral at this event, please email akfc.events@akdn.org.

Accessibility: The ground floor of CSI Spadina is fully accessible, Suite 101 can be reached via an elevator with a door of 30” width. For more information on accessibility at CSI, please visit this link.
For any additional accessibility requirements, please email akfc.events@akdn.org.

Progress and Possibility: A Tribute to SRHR Achievements
2025-02-12 18:00 - 20:30 (America/Toronto) | National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Join us for a special evening during Sexual Health Week as we celebrate Oxfam Canada’s and its partners’ achievements in advancing access to sexual and reproductive health services worldwide. This reception will highlight the life-changing impacts of our work and transport you directly into the stories of those at the heart of these efforts through a powerful, immersive virtual reality experience.
Step into our VR space and witness firsthand the resilience and determination of young women and male allies from Her Future, Her Choice – a groundbreaking initiative that has empowered communities in Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, and Canada over the past six years. These immersive films bring to life the voices of those fighting for their right to bodily autonomy, economic independence, and access to sexual and reproductive health services.
With special guests from the Philippines and Canada, you’ll gain deeper insights into our impact—including the soon-to-close Sexual Health and Empowerment (SHE) project in the Philippines, which has transformed lives for the past seven years.
? Date: February 12, 2025
? Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
? Location: National Arts Centre (Rossy Pavilion), 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage, learn, and step into the future of advocacy through VR. Kindly RSVP by February 10, 2025.
We look forward to seeing you!

Global Health Spotlight Series - In Conversation
2025-02-18 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Vancouver) | BCCHR room 2108
Welcome to the Global Health Spotlight Series – In Conversation!
Hosted by the Institute for Global Health at BC Children’s Hospital and BC Women’s Hospital + Health Centre.
Join us as we explore Angela’s journey to becoming a global health leader—highlighting her defining moments, lessons learned, and current projects.
Learning Objectives:

Explore how researchers’ unique journeys have shaped their current projects and the strategies they use to create equitable partnerships
Understand the “what” but also the “why” behind their chosen methods and models, including key decision-points, challenges and adjustments made along the way
Learn about opportunities to leverage resources and foster new collaborations and partnerships

When: Tuesday, February 18, 2025 |12:00 – 1:00 pm PST
Where: In-Person at Room 2108 BCCHRI (across from the Chan Centre for Family Health Education auditorium), BC Children’s Hospital
Ticket Cost: Free
Lunch will be provided for registered participants.
Our first speaker is Dr. Angela Kaida, a global health epidemiologist and community-based researcher at Simon Fraser University where she is an SFU Distinguished Professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences and the former Canada Research Chair in Global Perspectives on HIV and Sexual and Reproductive Health. She leads a global research program focused on factors and environments that increase vulnerability or protect sexual and reproductive health in the context of HIV. Dr. Kaida works closely with community leaders and decision makers to integrate research evidence into health policy and programming attending to social and gender equity. In 2022, she was elected as a Member of the Royal Society College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists.
Dr. Gina Ogilvie, is the Co-Executive Medical Director of the Institute for Global Health BCCWH. She is a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Global Control of HPV related diseases and prevention, and Professor at the University of British Columbia in the School of Population and Public Health. She is also Senior Public Health Scientist at BC Centre for Disease Control and Senior Research Advisor at the BC Women’s Hospital and Health Centre.
Reserve your spot now!
