How can we connect from a distance? Before COVID-19, we had more opportunities to connect in-person. In a traditional office setting, you could easily swing by a co-worker’s desk and ask, “do you have a minute to chat?” However, in a virtual setting, we have to be more intentional about setting up meetings. Are we missing the opportunity to casually brainstorm and find ways to collaborate over a cup of coffee as a result?

As a completely virtual organization, CanWaCH is always exploring new ways to support our members in their public engagement and communications efforts in a digital setting. The CanWaCH Communications Team is pleased to introduce virtual office hours, also known as “Coffee with the CanWaCH Communications Team”. On a biweekly basis, a member of our team will be available to support CanWaCH members in tackling communications challenges and brainstorm ideas and new ways of engaging Canadians on international development, global health and gender equality.

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How it works

• Every second Tuesday, a member of the CanWaCH communications team will be available on Zoom for drop-in discussion with CanWaCH members.
• Our Zoom doorbell will be on, so think of it as knocking as your co-worker’s door for a quick conversation to bounce around ideas, seek advice, or discuss a specific project or opportunity to collaborate!
• The day before each office hours, communications and public engagement leads will be sent an email with an invitation to let them know who is hosting this week’s office hours as well as the necessary Zoom details.

Please note that office hours are only offered in English at this time. To learn more about virtual office hours or set-up a more in-depth conversation with the CanWaCH Communications Team, please email us at [email protected].

Meet the Team

Lauren Murray, Senior Public Engagement Officer

Area of Expertise: Public & Youth Engagement 

As the Senior Public Engagement Officer, Lauren supports the strategic development and execution of CanWaCH’s public engagement efforts. She also manages the Lead On Canada campaign. Lauren has a Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management from Carleton University with a specialization in Human Rights and a minor in Law. Since graduating, Lauren has worked in administrative and communications roles for Canadian non-profits. Most recently, she worked for the Canadian Criminal Justice Association as the Project Coordinator. In her spare time, Lauren loves to read. As a self-described bookworm, she is always on the hunt for the next best read.

Celia Zhang, Digital Media Officer

Area of Expertise: Social Media & Digital Content

As the Digital Media Officer, Celia executes tactical social media and digital marketing activities to advance the profile of CanWaCH and its member organizations. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Media, Information & Technoculture from Western University. A digital strategist who specializes in creating accessible and creative content for nonprofits, Celia has developed digital strategies for organizations including the Gardiner Museum, The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. She recently wrapped up a contract as the Social Media Editor of Nuance, a digital sexual health publication by and for (im)migrant youth, and leads the marketing and communications efforts of GUTS Magazine, a Canadian feminist magazine, on a volunteer basis. Happiest when outdoors and in the sun, Celia can be found frequenting parks and trails with her dog Tina on weekends.