
08 Feb Canada celebrates International Development Week 2021
A unique tradition since 1991 to recognize our commitment to sustainable global development
Over the last 30 years, during the first full week in February, Canadians celebrate International Development Week – an annual initiative to shine a spotlight on critical global issues, Canada’s international development efforts and those who are helping make an impact.
International Development Week (#IDW2021) is celebrated this year from February 7 to 13 with a theme to #GoForTheGoals. Join us to recognize the many Canadians continuing to push for progress towards our global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) abroad and at home, despite additional challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
For decades, Youth Challenge International has collaborated with youth and partners to drive social impact in their communities. We’re endlessly inspired by the young Canadians who join us and take action for the SDGs and a more equal, sustainable and inclusive future for all, including:
- Since our HerStart Innovate the Future program launched in September 2020, Canadians from coast to coast to coast have been remotely volunteering through E-Fellowships. Their support is helping propel sustainable economic development and social impact for women and their communities in Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda.
- Now in its second year, our Innovate MY Future program has engaged hundreds of youth across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) to work in teams (currently virtually) with local partners to tackle climate issues in their communities.
- Our new Youth Climate Leadership Program, launched in August 2020, supports hundreds more young people in the GTHA to build their leadership skills and engage others (also virtually) to live more sustainably and take climate action through their youth-led community projects.
Join us this #IDW2021 as we share more about how Canadians are making an impact. We’ve also joined fellow Canadian Volunteer Cooperation Program organizations to showcase Global Affairs Canada’s support – read our collective open letter to learn more.