International Blog

Stéphane, Joint Honours in Communication and in Political Science
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Bangladesh

Summer 2020 has been exceptionally different to say the least. While the entire world is trying to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, we’ve all had to adjust to new ways of living. During this unprecedented period of time, I was given the opportunity to remotely intern with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Bangladesh. My internship placement was mandated by United Nations Associations in Canada. I was very pleased to hear of the placement opportunity mainly because I had intended to travel abroad and complete another internship before it was cancelled due to the pandemic.

I’m actually really fortunate that Bangladesh was my host country and gave me the opportunity to completely recognize and appreciate the ultra-important mandate of UNFPA. In essence, the United Nations Population Fund is the leading UN agency designed to improve and protect sexual and reproductive health and rights across the world. The key mandate for UNFPA is to “deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, where every childbirth is safe and where young people can fulfill their full potential”. In many ways, Bangladesh is a focal point of the organization’s mission. It’s a growing country with a lot of young people. Unfortunately, in Bangladesh women don’t always have safe places to give birth as access to essential resources isn't available to everyone. Also, the rate of child marriages is one of the highest in the world which leads to girls not given opportunities to go to school, which leads to poverty and in turn contributes to the “low status” of women. This also leads to what I can consider as forced pregnancies, or unwanted pregnancies. UNFPA is fighting to implement accessible resources to young girls and women in those situations.

My internship with the United Nations Population Fund in Bangladesh was a very unique experience in which I learned a lot about myself, the organization, and what goes behind coordinating content to promote UNFPA’s strategies and activities. As a communications officer, I was tasked with multiple short-term assignments that allowed me to have a hand in proofreading published content, media compilation analysis and event management. Although I was remotely working from the comfort of my home, here in Gatineau, I was able to expand my interpersonal skills as a result of being restricted to virtual interactions. Nevertheless, this unique work setting presented its share of challenges along the way, the hardest being the ten hours’ time difference between Dhaka and Gatineau. It forced my hand into expanding and developing time management skills, mainly by organizing my time in order to efficiently work, reducing interruptions and managing stress.

At the beginning of my internship with UNFPA Bangladesh, the first couple tasks were to simply familiarize myself with the organization. I spend countless hours reviewing data and communications provided by UNFPA on their website and social media platforms. As a member of the communication team, I’m working with various UNFPA’s sections to effectively communicate the core message of the agency throughout every social platform and information release. Recently, I’ve been given the task to revise and modify the Gender Equality Movement in Schools (GEMS) curriculum manual and to improve the quality of the document. The manual was originally written in Bengali and translated into English and needed to be upgraded. This project is managed by UNFPA’s Adolescent and Youth leadership team. This was truly unique as I had an important hand in editing a large document which is basically a core element of UNFPA. To be honest, this was quite stressful mainly because I was at first very hesitant to modify the document in its entirety, and most importantly, I had a deadline to meet. I went back and forth, and spent a lot of time revisiting sentence structures and trying to improve them.

Moreover, I’ve had the opportunity to experience the work that goes behind the official e-launch of the State of the World Population report (SWOP). The annual SWOP report is UNFPA’s flagship publication on the state of the population and every year the focus is on specific issues and themes. The 2020 publication, entitled “Against My Will” is focused on the types of harmful practices against women and girls. Particularly, the three widespread harmful practices: female genital mutilation, child marriage and son preference. As part of the communication team, I was tasked with compiling numerous articles and news coverage of this year’s publication. This media monitoring allows us to collect data, provides us with an overview and understanding of how the report was perceived. This was a very interesting task mainly because it allowed me to familiarize myself with Bangladeshis news outlets, for future tasks (see section about the signing event). Furthermore, I had the opportunity to draft the official press release in regards to the announcement that UNFPA and the government of Sweden were collaborating in COVID-19 response and program development.

Most importantly, I’ve really appreciated the opportunity UNFPA Bangladesh has given me to expand my work experience despite the logistical challenges in this unprecedented moment in time. Working with the communications team has been absolutely amazing, even though I wish the circumstances were different.

Bibi, Joint Honours Political Science and Public Administration
United Nations Association of Canada (UNAC), Thailand
United Nations Population Fund for the Asian Pacific Region (UNFPA), Intern (Monitoring and Evaluation)

My name is Bibi and I will be sharing my experience working internationally during Covid-19. Currently, I am working with UNAC where I am aiding with Monitoring and Evaluating practices and reports, Later, I will be working with UNFPA Thailand concentrating on gender equality and women’s health. Due to Covid-19, I was not about to travel to Thailand to begin my position, instead I am and will be working from home.

Currently, with the United Nations Association in Canada, I have had the opportunity to work with a dynamic team of individuals from different walks of life and expertise. My responsibilities as an intern is to assist the Program Manager of international programs with reviewing the Monitoring and Evaluations operating manuals for the international programs that the UNAC offers such as: IDDIP – the International Development and Diplomatic internship program, IYIP – the International Youth Internship Program, FLIP- the Financial Literacy Program, CSC- the Canada Service Corps and last the Canada Green Corps program. It gives me the opportunity to use a combination of past experiences and skills providing meaningful recommendations to strengthen reporting periods for M&E – Monitoring and Evolution. Aside from research and program review, I have also had the opportunity to participate in other events and panels that UNAC hosted. On July 9^th, there was a discussion concerning youth and future employment in the times of covid-19, on July 16^th there were two panel sessions on sustainability: one on the environment and one health. With these panels and public zoom discussions my team ensured that I had the opportunity to be included and participate.

Prior to working with UNAC, my interests for international affairs developed while traveling with my family and my experience with consult affairs. My passion for politics comes from serving my community and representing students in student politics. I knew that one day I really wanted a career in politics and international affairs. As an intern on Parliament, I was able to gain experience with international affairs. working with Standing committee on International trade, on agreements such as NAFTA, CUSMA, CETA, CIFTA, Multicultural and Diversification in Trade in Canada. I had the opportunity to attend conferences and panels concerning Canada’s role on the international level such as Women Deliver, and with UNAC prior to the bid for the UN Security Council. I am also an advocate for gender equality, mental health and women’s rights.

My experience with UNAC has been very rewarding even though there have been some challenges due to covid-19. Working remotely has been a personal learning curb as it has had impacts on my schedules and routine and especially how I tackle simple things day to day. I found that it’s really important to establish a schedule and take wellness breaks when needed, in addition to making clear working boundaries. Covid-19 has allowed us to work from home, use and discover new technology to stay working and connected with loved ones, however, this has also increased our screen time. I consider myself exceptionally lucky that I work with a team that is flexible and that emphasizes mental health and wellness.

With this experience, even though my travel has been very limited I still feel as though that there is an international aspect. With each report that I review, I have learned interesting facts about the impacts that Canadian policies and program has had on the international stage. For instance, the Financial Literacy Internship Program is in collaboration with the Cambodian government that focuses on targeting the Sustainable Development Goal for Quality Education. The Canadian Service Corps gives Canadians the opportunity to take part in High level meetings, and the Canadian Green Corps specifically focuses on the Paris Agreement in addition to the sustainable development goals on the environment. Through meetings and panels, I have the opportunity to meet and learn from experts and politicians from around the world experience very much reminds me of consult affairs and consult duties – working for a foreign office from home or working from a foreign place for home.

As someone who aspires to be a diplomat and a future leader to this country, I definitely found this experience to be useful. I am looking forward to what else this placement has in store for me as well as my career in politics and international affairs.

Geneviève, Masters in Social Work, World University Service Canada, Malawi
Student Refugee Program, Intern

Before arriving in Malawi six weeks ago, I knew I was going on the trip of a lifetime. Having prepared myself internally to enter a new culture, new environment and new me, I thought I was prepared for the experience that was too come. Truth be told, I was never prepared for this. This experience has been life changing for me in so many more ways than one. All of which, has absolutely been for the better.

Upon my arrival in Malawi, I was shocked by the accuracy behind Malawi’s title as “the warm heart of Africa”. Although many people here do not speak English (or French), they never fail to try and be helpful, to say hello, and to be welcoming. That being said, I found out quickly that this level of welcoming energy was also going to be extended to me by those who are not Malawian.

My responsibilities in Malawi include working in Dzaleka Refugee Camp, as a Student Refugee Program intern. There, I teach the Canadian life course to refugee students who have been accepted into the program. The refugee camp is where I spend most of my time, and despite it having its hardships (such as a 4-hour daily commute), I would never trade this experience for the world.

Over the past couple of weeks, I have been able to get to know my students, as well as many others within the camp, and listen to stories of happiness, resilience, excitement and hardships. I’ve gotten to learn that about their beliefs, and share laughs between us. Furthermore, I’ve gotten to know my supervisor who has been an undying force of support, introspection and kindness.

I have managed to travel around Malawi, to see safaris and beaches, and taste new food. I’ve made new friends throughout the city, as they show me their life, and ask me about mine. I got to taste nsima for the first time (the Malawian national dish), and get dresses made out of chitenge. Yes, all of these experiences has been truly wonderful, and eye opening at times. But my time at Dzaleka, that is the place where my true growth lies.

As I hope I am preparing my students for their new life in Canada, I don’t think they know that they are preparing me for MY new life in Canada. Being as Master’s student in Social Work, I learn about taking on new perspectives and active listening. Although my position includes teaching, I have found that creating meaningful connections with my students has allowed me to truly get to know about their excitement and their fears about moving to Canada, and has allowed me to put my knowledge from school into practice. Malawi…I came to you thinking I was prepared. I fear I may not be able to leave as I will never be the same again.

Max, International Development and Globalization, Mines Action Canada, Trinidad and Tobago
Women's Institute for Alternative Development, Disarmament Program, Support Officer

When most Canadians think of the Caribbean, they might picture the white sandy beaches home to all-inclusive resorts that are flooded by cruise ship-loads of tourists. Trinidad is admittedly not this. On the surface, Trinidad is heavily industrial, and at times might feel overwhelming from the staggering tropical heat, the incessant traffic and seemingly non-stop noise. Only a few weeks into my stay however, I began to get an immense appreciation for the passion and pride of the people, the natural beauty, and the fascinating cultural landscape of this twin island republic.

I chose Trinidad and Tobago, because of how little most people (including myself) know/knew about it. Many would be surprised to find out about the significant cultural and ethnic diversity here as a direct result of the country’s complicated colonial past. Trinidad and Tobago was colonized at one point by nearly every major colonial power. As a result, a wide array of different religions, ethnicities, and cultural traditions are represented here. Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival, one of the island’s most acclaimed celebrations, is a perfect example of this blend of cultures and traditions.

When I first got here, people were very eager to tell me how visibly other cultures are represented here, and how commonplace it is for people to celebrate each other’s religious holidays/traditions, and even pray at each other’s places of worship; something which I found very interesting given how little some people interact with people of different cultures back in Canada.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival is easily one of the island’s biggest events of the whole year. When I first arrived, everyone told me that I picked

the best time of year to visit. Carnival season starts right after Christmas, and it’s said that during the year, you’re either celebrating it, or reminiscing about how good the previous year’s festivities were. I recently participated in J’ouvert, Carnival’s opening celebrations that begin around 4 A.M. which involves parading through the streets covering yourself in mud and paint until the sun comes up. This was truly an experience I will never forget, and it was incredible to witness the energy and excitement as the streets come alive during this time.

Trinidad and Tobago is seen both as developed and developing at the same time. The country has the third highest GDP per capita in North America, thanks to a well-developed oil and natural gas industry. However, in recent years due to the decline in oil prices, and a host of other factors, the economy has seen relatively little growth.  As with many countries, this inequality of income can be drastic and very visible. There are many neighbourhoods here that host large mansions and driveways full of Porsches, BMWs and Mercedes, while only a few blocks over, there are single-room wooden shacks with tin roofs.

This duality of development can lead to logistical challenges as well. I recently had a meeting with the High Commission of Canada where they told me that due to T&T not being on the list of ODA countries, they are unable to provide funding directly for local initiatives, even in areas that may not be getting adequate funding from the local government. This is especially challenging in parts of the country that are more susceptible to natural disasters and severe flooding.

I am here as an intern with the Women’s Institute for Alternative Development (WINAD), working as a Disarmament Program Support Officer. Although WINAD is a relatively small NGO, their impact is comparatively large. When I am out in public with my supervisor, I am always surprised with how many people recognize her and commend her for the work that she is doing.

Already at the halfway point, I am excited to continue seeing different parts of the island, and learn more about the unique cultural experiences Trinidad and Tobago has to offer. When I first arrived, it felt like I was taking a big step into the unknown. It’s true that there are always challenges when you enter a new environment; however, I am grateful to have been welcomed graciously into Trini life by a caring and thoughtful group of people.

Valerie, International Development and Globalization,
Uniterra, Tanzania - Friends in Development (FIDE) - Communications and Documentation Officer

Whereas most people associate Tanzania with wildlife and landscapes, the thing I will remember the most about Tanzania is the generosity and friendliness of the people here. “Polite, considerate and friendly” are words often used to describe Canadians and those seem to apply perfectly to Tanzanians as well. There are 120 ethnic groups and therefore 120 tribal languages in Tanzania, which makes the country the second most ethnically diverse in the world. Despite this diversity, Tanzanians live such in harmony with one and another. Once again, this makes me think of Canada as it is perceived by many, myself included, as a multicultural country that embraces all races, ethnicities and religions.

If not for the people, I will miss Tanzania for its food which is very simple and yet so rich in taste. Living in the small city that is Babati, I have had the opportunity to eat local dishes every day, whether it was rice and beans with milk tea (black tea infused in boiled milk) for lunch or chips mayai (omelet filled with fries) for dinner.

Living in a very small town has had its pros and cons. On one hand, most people here only speak Swahili and the diversity of restaurants and shops is very limited as is the number of foreigners here. On the other hand, I get to interact with the same people every day, practice Swahili and eat more local food than I would if I were living in a bigger city like the majority of volunteers are. Altogether, this has made my integration into my host country easier and I feel as though I am experiencing the local culture more than I would have thought.

Having the opportunity to put to practice what I have learned in class for the past 3 years is truly rewarding. As I am currently developing a gender equality policy for my organization, I was grateful for the “Women, Gender and Development” course I took during the fall semester of 2018 as it provided me with knowledge about theoretical and practical approaches to women in development and issues women face in Southern countries to use for the aforementioned policy. Though, reading back on my class notes from different DVM courses made me realize how applying the theories we learn in class is not as realistic as it might seem. In the case of women’s empowerment, I have found that most theories fail to address the core of gender inequality which is in the private sphere and is engraved deeply in cultural norms and traditions. As pessimistic this might seem, it is the reality I am faced with. I am, though, finding smaller but still meaningful ways of supporting excluded groups (women, youth and indigenous) through everyday actions, whether it is buying from them at the market or giving them a forum by interviewing them on their past and current living situation.

My job as Communication and Documentation Officer with Friends in Development (FIDE) is located in Babati. In a few words, FIDE is a local NGO using local expertise to lead community-based rural development projects in different regions in Tanzania in order to achieve a poverty-free, equitable and environmentally sustainable society. It works in various fields, such as agriculture, health, education and water supply, partners regularly with local, national and international organizations to help implement its projects.

The work culture in Tanzania was definitely a challenge throughout my whole mandate and even after 3 months, I can’t really say that I got used to it. For instance, being productive all the time isn’t a thing, whereas frequent tea breaks and 2h lunches are. During these 2h lunches, everyone eats together, and no one brings their own food unless they are willing to share with the whole office. Also, no one tells you what you are supposed to do and you are expected to create work for yourself. Last but not least, everything takes time here and you can’t rely on schedules. This is where the whole “hakuna matata” saying means more than just “no worries” – it also refers to time as in “do not rush”. Without a doubt, the latter has made my work more difficult and longer than it could have been.

However, when looking back at all the tasks I have achieved, I have done more than the Uniterra team and I had anticipated in my work plan. In fact, in 3 months I have:

• Redone completely the website;
• Updated the website and social medias weekly;
• Developed a Gender Equality Policy and presented it to the staff and board;
• Designed a newsletter;
• Developed participants form to track the gender, age group and knowledge level on specific subjects of beneficiaries at trainings and meetings;
• Conducted interviews with beneficiaries to see how their situation improved;
• Created a guide on how to use WordPress for my coworkers.

Ranawk, International Economics and Development and Additional Minor - Statistics
Uniterra Nepal, Central Dairy Cooperative Association Lalitpur District Milk Producer Cooperative Union Ltd, Communication and Documentation Intern

In the second half of my internship, I was able to visit the field. For me, as a volunteer for the Lalitpur District Milk Producers Cooperative Union, this meant travelling to a nearby village of buffalo farms to interview farmers and start to develop a success story. One of the first things that CECI Nepal highlights during in country training is just how diverse the geography and climate in Nepal can be. By going to the field, I was able to see how an hour and many windy uphill roads later, it felt like I was in a completely different area. Looking out from the home I was staying in; the clouds were level with where I was standing.

By spending some time there, I was able to fully appreciate it what it means to be a buffalo farmer. Most families have 2-3 buffaloes and caring for them is not the only job. Vegetable gardens are also important sources of income which take a lot of work. I interviewed several households about their experience with the cooperative and which aspects they appreciated most. While many of the answers were similar, the breadth of responses when it came to how the cooperative has improved their livelihoods was very telling of the change that is possible.

We travelled to the village in the milk truck that travels from the village to the city every day to collect and sell the milk for the farmers. Before the cooperative existed and before the farmers were a part of it, they each individually held the responsibility of finding a way to transport and sell their milk. I can’t imagine how difficult that was but it is clear how great of a benefit it is now. The farmers also spoke about how the cooperative provides seeds for their vegetable gardens, helps advocate at the government level, and improves knowledge on health and sanitation practices for their buffalos.

My visit to the field was a reminder of how change may feel incremental at the individual level but over time, can really add up. This along with connecting with other interns made me appreciate how when we are in these roles and performing these internships, all of our actions and reactions are part of much larger global systems. Each intern before us and each intern after us contributes to our expectations and our host communities’ expectations. While this can sometimes create miscommunications, it is a testament to how powerful a global network is. For students who are considering this internship in the future, I recommend you come in with determination, self-awareness, and an open mind – there is so much you can learn.