Black Changemakers, Innovators and Disruptors Shaping Canada’s International Cooperation Sector

BHM 2024 – Interview with Andy Ouédraogo

Interview with Andy Ouédraogo, Research and Program Officer at Cooperation Canada

 

1. Why did you decide to work in international cooperation and what have been some career highlights? 

Growing up, my parents served as guiding beacons, inspiring a deep-rooted commitment to community service and compassionate leadership. This upbringing instilled in me a profound passion for humanitarianism and development. Yet, the pivotal moment that propelled my career into international cooperation occurred in 2016. During a journey back to Burkina Faso’s capital, my family and I encountered a distressing accident scene—a lack of emergency response left critically injured individuals waiting for an ambulance for two agonizing hours. Having lived in Canada for two years at the time, the stark contrast between Global North and South became glaringly apparent. This experience, coupled with the escalating humanitarian crisis in my homeland, compelled me to redirect my career from Business Management to International Development. Years later and it is still the moral cornerstone in my quest for a world that is not only safer but also marked by fairness and justice. 

 

What have been some career highlights? 

Receiving the Henderson Award for International Development in 2020 marked a pivotal career highlight, recognizing my role in the design of a grassroot initiative for humanitarian crisis relief. This project aimed at empowering internally displaced women through vocational training and apprenticeship programs, challenging conventional aid practices and promoting self-reliance through the participation of IDCs in the (formal and informal) economy.  

 Another defining moment in my career unfolded during the COVID-19 pandemic, when I had the privilege to work for the 76th President of the United Nations General Assembly. During this time of crisis, which starkly exposed racial and ethnic disparities, especially with Black women bearing a disproportionate burden, being part of a historic presidency of hope held particular significance for me as a young Black woman, navigating a professional landscape where representation remains a huge challenge.  

 Finally, as I reflect on my current role as the lead for the Global Cooperation Futures Initiative at Cooperation Canada, I am proud to be contributing to a more inclusive narrative in global development. This strategic foresight project not only fosters innovation but underscores the importance of diversity in navigating the complexities of international development and collectively carving new paths toward a future we all desire. 

 

 3. What experiences have influenced your career as a Black person in the international cooperation sector? 

Throughout my career, my experiences as a Black professional have been shaped by both opportunities and challenges. While I’ve been fortunate to engage in initiatives fostering diversity and inclusion, entering predominantly white professional spaces has brought about unique pressures. In these environments, the weight of representing an entire community can be palpable, creating a burden that goes beyond professional responsibilities. There has been at times a fear of inadvertently reinforcing stereotypes and the added pressure of potentially impacting opportunities for others who share my background. Moreover, I’ve encountered instances where assumptions based on my origins influenced expectations about my opinions. Navigating these complexities highlights the ongoing need for genuine inclusivity, where individuals are valued for their unique perspectives rather than burdened by preconceptions tied to their racial or ethnic identity. 

 

4. What are your hopes for the future, and what advice would you give to those wishing to work in international cooperation? 

Aspiring for a future marked by increased inclusivity in the international cooperation sector, my hopes involve the dismantling of barriers to entry, beginning with the elimination of unpaid work, such as internships or fellowships. The prevalence of unpaid positions creates a disadvantage, particularly for Black professionals who may not have the financial means to engage in such opportunities, placing them at an inequitable starting point compared to their counterparts. In promoting Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Justice, we all have the responsibility to ensure that our initiatives proactively address these systemic barriers without being hindered by perceived funding constraints. 

 Lastly, for those aspiring to enter the field of international cooperation, my advice would be to anchor themselves in their purpose. While the journey is fulfilling, challenges may arise that provide reasons to reconsider. Holding onto one’s motivation becomes essential amidst the rewarding yet potentially demanding nature of this career path.  

 

 

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Black History Month 2024 Statement

Black History Month 2024 Statement

As we celebrate Black History Month, we at Cooperation Canada renew our commitment to key principles at the heart of our work: inclusion, equity and decolonization. We recognize that building an equitable world begins with understanding, respect and solidarity. We are excited to launch initiatives throughout the month of February to honour the diverse contributions of the Black community to Canadian international cooperation while continuing efforts to dismantle systems of oppression. 

With a membership of over 100 Canadian international development and humanitarian organizations, Cooperation Canada believes that as a sector we must take concrete steps to address the legacy of racial prejudice and colonialism in international cooperation. We encourage all those interested and involved in international cooperation to be inspired and guided by the Anti-Racism Framework for Canada’s International Cooperation Sector. 

To mark Black History Month this year, we are launching a digital campaign to highlight the remarkable change-makers, innovators and disruptors shaping Canada’s international cooperation. The campaign will celebrate and recognize the impact of the Black community in our sector. 

In 2024, Cooperation Canada will also release its Anti-Racism, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Justice Strategy and Action Plan. After nearly two years of commitment and engagement from the Cooperation Canada Board and team, along with some expert help, the new strategy aims to strengthen anti-racism in the implementation of internal organizational practices and the broad work of the organization. 

Cooperation Canada will also continue discussions with its members to revise its Code of Ethics, bearing in mind that decolonization and anti-racism are practices that require personal and organizational commitment and effort. 

While we will be allocating time for our team to reflect on the historical violence, systemic injustices and the resilience of African, Caribbean and Black communities, we recognize that these reflections and commitments must extend beyond Black History Month. We look forward to continuing our efforts towards decolonization, dismantling structures of oppression, championing equity and amplifying marginalized voices long after February. 

A Look Back at Our Consultation on Implementing Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy

A Look Back at Our Consultation on Implementing Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy

On January 15, 2024, Cooperation Canada collaborated with Global Affairs Canada in organizing a public consultation on Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) launched in November 2022. The consultation’s objectives were to raise awareness on the Strategy, mobilize the Canadian civil society in its implementation and facilitate meaningful dialogue, and prepare subsequent regional events. The event brought together about 80 participants within the walls of Global Affairs Canada and an additional 124 online from the development, philanthropic, business, government and diplomatic sectors.

After the opening note by Kate Higgins, CEO of Cooperation Canada, the keynote remarks by Associate Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Christopher MacLennan, and panel discussion allowed participants to grasp both the critical importance of the Indo-Pacific region for Canada and the role that Canadian actors can play in that complex geopolitical environment. Mr. MacLennan set the scene, presenting the Strategy as an integrated approach to expand Canada’s presence and strengthen partnerships in the region to effectively protect and promote Canadian interests. He observed that the rise of the Indo-Pacific can generate significant local benefits and drive economic growth across Canada. The Deputy Minister also acknowledged the importance of civil society organizations the implementation of the IPS, noting that many of them are expecting feedback on their submission to the 2023 call for concept notes to enhance inclusive governance, promote and protect human rights, and advance gender equality in support of sustainable and inclusive economic growth in the Indo-Pacific region.

Engaging Canadians in the IPS_Cooperation Canada

After the keynote address, a panel discussion, moderated by Odette McCarthy, Executive Director of Equitas and member of Cooperation Canada’s Executive Board, highlighted the interconnectedness of the IPS’ five strategic objectives. Vincent Rigby, Slater Family Professor of Practice at Max Bell School of Public Policy at McGill University, shared some thoughts on peace and security, stressing that stability in the Indo-Pacific is essential to global stability and that Canada may be challenged to sustain a meaningful presence in a region with numerous security hotspots. Trevor Kennedy, Vice President, Trade and International Policy, Business Council Canada, speaking to the second IPS strategic objective to expand trade, investment and supply chain resilience, stressed the opportunities that the Indo-Pacific region offers for Canadian businesses. A solidarity perspective was brought by Emrul Hasan, Vice President, Global Programs, CARE Canada, who emphasized how civil society organizations foster connections and partnerships between people by investing in women empowerment and poverty alleviation programs. Representing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Diplomats in Canada, Dr. Quynh Tran, Head of Trade Office at the Embassy of Vietnam, made important connections between human rights, corporate accountability, and environmental sustainability, all important considerations for Canadian and ASEAN companies. Speaking to the fifth strategic objective of the IPS, Canada as an active and engaged partner to the Indo-Pacific, Dr. A.W. Lee, Director of Inclusive International Trade, at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, shared some directions that the Foundation is taking to pitch Canada as an opportunity for Indo-Pacific countries, including through enhanced presence in the region.

Following the rich panel discussion, participants had the opportunity to focus on the third IPS strategic objective, that is Investing in and connecting people. They approached this theme in small groups, which allowed for more focused conversations and deeper dives into the linkages between this strategic objective and the other four, i.e. Peace & Security, Trade & Investment, Sustainability and Partnerships.

In her closing remarks, Patricia Peña, Assistant Deputy Minister for International Development Partnerships and Operations at Global Affairs Canada, restated the importance of partnerships for effectively delivering international assistance globally. This is an area where Canadian CSOs have demonstrated and continue to showcase excellence, integrity, and innovation. This is also why Cooperation Canada is committed to continue engaging with Global Affairs on regional strategies and their alignment with Canada’s feminist agenda.

A more extensive consultation report will be released in the coming months and will serve as springboard for the regional consultation tables to be organized later this year by the provincial councils for international cooperation, i.e., Association Québécoise des Organismes de Coopération Internationale (AQOCI), British Columbia Council for International Cooperation (BCCIC), and Ontario Council for International Cooperation (OCIC). So stay tuned!

Cooperation Canada is grateful to many individuals and organizations for supporting this consultation. We would not have been able to do this without you!

Asia Pacific Foundation, Business Council of Canada, Canada-ASEAN Business Council, Canadian Red Cross (CRC), CARE Canada, Embassy of Vietnam in Canada, FinDev, Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), International Justice Mission (IJM), Ontario Council for International Cooperation (OCIC ), The Equality Fund, Trade Facilitation Office Canada (TFO), UPA Développement international (UPA DI), Vincent Rigby, World Accord

Looking Ahead to a New Year

Looking Ahead to a New Year

In 2023, the inequalities and injustices that many of us work hard to alleviate escalated in many parts of the world. Conflict, deepening food insecurity, global economic instability, the devastating effects of the climate crisis, and attacks on women’s rights, human rights, civic space and democracy were some of the critical issues that Cooperation Canada’s members, working alongside their partners, worked hard to address. 

Supporting our members in these efforts is at the heart of what we do at Cooperation Canada. In 2023, we were thrilled to pass the 100-member mark, welcoming several new members to our network! 

I am very grateful to Cooperation Canada’s Board of Directors, for their dedication and guidance over the last year. I am also deeply inspired by the work of the Cooperation Canada team, who continue their important work collaborating, convening, advocating and supporting our members and partners to contribute to a fairer, safer and more sustainable world. 

As we look to 2024, I am pleased to share some of Cooperation Canada’s priorities for the year ahead.  We want to see Canada step up to this moment of global instability and uncertainty and do its part to support peace, prosperity and justice. We also know that this is a time of reckoning for those of us working in international cooperation – and that we must take action to address long-standing power imbalances in the international cooperation system. We believe deeply in the important role that civil society – and Canadian organizations – play in making the world a better place and want to support innovation and change to enhance our collective impact. And we stand ready to support Cooperation Canada members to do the hard organizational work to be resilient and relevant now and into the future. 

Pushing for bold Canadian global leadership 

In 2024, we will continue to engage with Canadian parliamentarians, and the Canadian government, to push for bold Canadian global leadership on international cooperation. We’re looking forward to engaging with many parliamentarians about the life-saving and life-changing work of Canadian international cooperation at our International Development Week Hill Day in February 2024. We are pushing for the Canadian government to respond to immense global needs, and leverage Canadian expertise in international assistance, through new and additional commitments in the 2024 federal budget. 

We have started strategizing on influencing Canada’s G7 Presidency in 2025 and are working actively to be well-prepared for the next federal election. We will continue to work with Global Affairs Canada to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their partnerships with civil society, including through the important Grants and Contributions Transformation process. And we will keep up the important work of tracking and analyzing key trends in Canadian international assistance and global humanitarian action 

Shifting power in international cooperation 

At Cooperation Canada, we are committed to shifting power in international cooperation.  This means taking action ourselves as an organization, including through the implementation of our new Anti-Racism, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Justice Strategy and Action Plan (2023-2026), and supporting our members to do the same. The important work of the Anti-Racist Cooperation (ARC) Hub will continue in 2024 – keep an eye out for ways to engage during Black History Month in February and take a look at the ARC Hub’s most recent annual report. We are also working with our members to make real progress on operationalizing our collective efforts on localization, including through engaging with and influencing Global Affairs Canada and global coalitions focused on shifting power. The need to respond to the historic and ongoing implications of Canada’s colonial history remains top of mind for us.  We will be doing more work as a Cooperation Canada team, and with our members, to take meaningful action on Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. 

Championing civil society innovation and impact  

Our exciting strategic foresight work, delivered through our Futures Initiative, is in full flight, and will help us look ahead to anticipate and address emerging trends that will shape international cooperation. The Humanitarian Response Network has an important strategic year ahead and will continue to work hard to bolster the impact of Canadian humanitarian action.  Our newly energized Innovative Finance Working Group is connecting, sharing and learning on how to best leverage innovative finance in international cooperation. And we are excited to see what the year will hold for Resilient Societies, the newly launched hub for civil society activists in exile that we are incubating at Cooperation Canada. 

Supporting organizational resilience 

Cooperation Canada will continue to support our members to improve their organizational resilience and impact.  We’re encouraged to see the Cooperation Canada Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Working Group and Human Resource Working Group go from strength to strength, and that people playing these important roles in our membership have opportunities to learn from and support each other.  We are excited to launch Digna’s PSEA Organizational Assessment Tool for the third year in a row, working with members and partners to maintain momentum on our collective efforts on safeguarding in international cooperation.  

We will work with others across the Canadian charitable sector to shine a light on the immense impact of Canadian charities, and advocate for a supportive enabling environment for us. We know that funding diversification is a key priority for our members, and we will seek to support creative and innovative efforts to diversify revenue sources for our members, including by enhancing our connections with the Canadian philanthropic sector. 

At Cooperation Canada, we truly believe that we are stronger when we work together.  Stay tuned – through our newsletter, LinkedIn and X – to keep up to date on opportunities for collaborating with us in 2024. A key moment will be our second International Cooperation Futures Festival, which will take place from 8-10 October 2024 at the National Art Centre in Ottawa. We hope you will join us! 

There is no doubt that the world feels more insecure and complex than it did a decade ago, and that we’re looking towards a period of instability for the world – and the for the Canadian international cooperation organizations that operate within it. This will bring challenges. But it will also opportunities. And it should drive us to embrace innovation and change.   

I’m optimistic about what we can achieve working together. I look forward to collaborating with our members and partners in the year ahead!