The aim of International Development Week (IDW) is to draw attention to international development and celebrate Canadian contributions to eradicating poverty and building a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous world.
This year, #IDW2023 will take place from Feb. 5 to 11. The week aims to inform, inspire and involve Canadians in Canada’s international-development efforts. The unifying theme of Go for the Goals represents a call to action for Canadians to support the achievement of the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
UCalgary is hosting the following events to bring attention to IDW and the SDGs.
World’s Challenge Challenge
This competition asks students to think big and come up with an idea to make our world a better place. Students form interdisciplinary teams of two to four members will develop and pitch a solution with a global impact that addresses one or more of the SDGs.
Semifinal competition: Feb. 6, 12 – 3 p.m.
Location: Collision Space, Hunter Student Commons
Registration here
The UCalgary WCC Final will take place on March 8 from 1 – 3 p.m. The winner will move on to the Canadian WCC Final Competition, hosted by Western University, for a chance at a $30,000 prize!
Storytelling the SDGs
This event, hosted by the Sustainable Development Goals Alliance (SDGA), will focus on gender, sexuality and allyship in sustainable development. This annual event seeks to create a space for dialogue regarding the experiences that youth, students, staff, faculty and community members have had when engaging in development work. These lived experiences will be portrayed through art and storytelling, creating a safe and open space to explore discussions and share stories in connection to the SDGs.
Feb. 8, 5 – 7 p.m.
Location: 7th Floor, MacKimmie Tower
Registration here
To learn more about this event, please follow the Sustainable Development Goals Alliance on Instagram @sdgalliance
Careers in Sustainability and International Development networking event
Calling all professionals with career experience in sustainability and/or international development!
Interact with students from UCalgary through virtual breakout rooms. Expect an evening of meaningful conversations as students are guided on ways they can achieve career goals that align with international development and the SDGs. Participate as a mentor by filling out the application by Jan. 23. *Application process is brief; you will be prompted to provide a short biography (5-7 sentences), along with a headshot.
Mentor registration
Are you a graduate or undergraduate student interested in sustainability or international development? Join us for a virtual networking event. Connect with industry professionals in the fields of international development and sustainability as they relate to the SDGs. Expect an evening of meaningful career exploration as you rotate through virtual breakout rooms, gaining insights and mentorship regarding your future employment aspirations. Register by Jan. 27; spaces fill up fast!
Feb. 9, 4 – 6 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Student registration