Museum secures Bridges that Unite in Partnership with Aga Khan Foundation Canada
Major Exhibition set to open in Waterloo Region invites Participants to Explore Canada’s role on the World Stage
Kitchener - An interactive exhibition showcasing Canada's ability to bridge the developed and the developing worlds is set to arrive in Kitchener next month as part of a cross-Canada tour.
Bridges that Unite, will be hosted at The Children’s Museum of Waterloo Region, and invites visitors to consider Canada's role in the world through the lens of a remarkable 25-year partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in some of the world's most isolated and impoverished regions.
The 6,000 square foot exhibition offers a vibrant space in which to explore some of the most pressing questions of the 21st century. Thought-provoking stories, spanning several continents, are told through powerful images, evocative soundscapes and interactive, multimedia components.
The exhibition provides an illuminating backdrop for a range of programs, including cultural performances, panel discussions and film screenings.
Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC), an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network is presenting the large-scale, bilingual exhibition which began its successful cross-country journey in Victoria with tour stops in Calgary and Vancouver.
Khalil Z. Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of AKFC, explains that Bridges that Unite is an opportunity to share the experience of the past 25 years and chart a way forward for Canada and the world.
"The exhibition draws on our rich experience in the developing world to spark a conversation about what Canada and Canadians can do to ensure a more peaceful, prosperous and pluralist world. We are delighted to continue this important dialogue in Waterloo Region and we look forward to teaming up with the Children’s Museum and other key partners to present Bridges that Unite.”
David Marskell, Chief Executive Officer of The Children’s Museum, explains how cross generational and relevant this show is. “Anyone with an interest in Canada's role in the world, from school groups to professional associations, will find the exhibition a compelling resource for education and discussion,” says Marskell. Bridges that Unite is presented free of charge at the Museum and will be open from April 4 through May 3, 2009. For more information visit www.bridgesthatunite.ca
http://www.exchangemagazine.com/morning ... 031205.htm
ACTIVITIES OF AKF CANADA
World Partnership Walk 2009
The World Partnership Walk is Canada's largest annual event dedicated to increasing awareness and raising funds to fight global poverty.
Now in its 25th year, the Walk is organized by volunteers in nine cities across the country and attracts tens of thousands of Canadians united in a common effort to bring hope and renewal to some of the poorest communities in the world. Last year nearly 40,000 participants came together across Canada to raise $5.5 million in support of international development.
Join us this year and "Walk the Walk!"
http://www.worldpartnershipwalk.com/
The World Partnership Walk is Canada's largest annual event dedicated to increasing awareness and raising funds to fight global poverty.
Now in its 25th year, the Walk is organized by volunteers in nine cities across the country and attracts tens of thousands of Canadians united in a common effort to bring hope and renewal to some of the poorest communities in the world. Last year nearly 40,000 participants came together across Canada to raise $5.5 million in support of international development.
Join us this year and "Walk the Walk!"
http://www.worldpartnershipwalk.com/
Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat Visitor Program
A Visitor Program is currently being planned for those wishing to visit the public spaces of the Delegation this Spring. Visitors will have access to the Delegation four times per month beginning on Wednesday, April 1, 2009.
Details:
The schedule for the visitor program is every other Wednesday (from 5:00-7:00pm) and every other Saturday (from 2:00-4:00pm).
Upcoming dates in April include:
Wednesday, April 1st:
Saturday, April 11th:
Wednesday, April 15th:
Saturday, April 25th:
Wednesday, April 29th:
There are no set tour times but volunteer guides will be on hand to facilitate ‘open house’ visits of the Atrium, the Seminar Room, the Resource Library and, weather permitting, the Char Bagh – interior garden. Plan on approximately 30 minutes for the visit. No reservations are required but groups of 10 or more are kindly requested to advise AKFC in advance at [email protected] or 1-800-267-2532. Unfortunately, special requests for alternate dates cannot be accommodated at this time – we thank you for your understanding.
No parking is available on site but street parking is available in the neighbourhood. Visitors are requested to enter by the Boteler Street entrance.
http://www.akfc.ca/en/whatsnew/dii_visi ... gram.shtml
A Visitor Program is currently being planned for those wishing to visit the public spaces of the Delegation this Spring. Visitors will have access to the Delegation four times per month beginning on Wednesday, April 1, 2009.
Details:
The schedule for the visitor program is every other Wednesday (from 5:00-7:00pm) and every other Saturday (from 2:00-4:00pm).
Upcoming dates in April include:
Wednesday, April 1st:
Saturday, April 11th:
Wednesday, April 15th:
Saturday, April 25th:
Wednesday, April 29th:
There are no set tour times but volunteer guides will be on hand to facilitate ‘open house’ visits of the Atrium, the Seminar Room, the Resource Library and, weather permitting, the Char Bagh – interior garden. Plan on approximately 30 minutes for the visit. No reservations are required but groups of 10 or more are kindly requested to advise AKFC in advance at [email protected] or 1-800-267-2532. Unfortunately, special requests for alternate dates cannot be accommodated at this time – we thank you for your understanding.
No parking is available on site but street parking is available in the neighbourhood. Visitors are requested to enter by the Boteler Street entrance.
http://www.akfc.ca/en/whatsnew/dii_visi ... gram.shtml
A Special Information Supplement of Aga Khan Foundation Canada in Globe and Mail
April 26, 2009
Posted by ismailimail in Aga Khan Foundation, Canada, North America, Partnerships in Action.
trackback
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/ ... nt/indepth
April 26, 2009
Posted by ismailimail in Aga Khan Foundation, Canada, North America, Partnerships in Action.
trackback
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/ ... nt/indepth
Partnership Walk 2009 in the news!
Be part of the solution!
http://www.cornwallseawaynews.com/artic ... ution.html
Article online since May 7th 2009, 11:05
Be the first to comment on this article
Be part of the solution!
His Highness Aga Khan (left) with Prime Minister Stephen Harper during Khan’s recent visit to Canada. Seaway News photo
Be part of the solution!
Thousands of Canadians will be participating in a unique event in several cities later this month to fight global poverty in vulnerable communities particularly in Africa and Asia.
It was 25 years ago this year, that that a group of Ismaili Muslim women from Vancouver came together to walk and support the poorest of the poor.
It was a gesture of what they had gained in coming to Canada from troubled Uganda.
That was the start of the World Partnership Walk.
Idi Amin, the military dictator in 1972 expelled the entire Asian population from Uganda, blaming them for controlling the economy for their own ends.
Over the past 25 years, Canadians have raised more than $40.5 million to help fight global poverty.
Last year alone, nearly $6 million was raised.
This popular World Partnership Walk is now the largest and the longest-running event of this kind in aid of global development in the country.
The primary goal is to alleviate world poverty at a time when severe food crisis is escalating and sometimes erupting into unprecedented riots.
The World Partnership Walk, fuelled by the energy and dedication of committed volunteers, has engaged tens of thousands of Canadians with Aga Khan Foundation Canada and transformed millions of lives in some of the poorest parts of Asia and Africa.
Every cent collect goes directly to projects that encourage community participation and ultimately, the self-sufficiency of third-world villages.
The World Partnership Walk attracts around 50,000 participants in nine cities across Canada. The walk will be held over three weekends beginning on Sunday, May 31.
The event in Ottawa will be held June 7 while the walk in Montreal will be held May 31.
Funds raised by the walk have helped the Aga Khan Foundation Canada to leverage additional support from partners like the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
The walkers, along with 1,000 corporate sponsors, in Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal, London, Kitchener, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and Victoria contribute to fight poverty.
Since its inception in Vancouver in 1985, these walks have raised money to fund education, improve health care, increase rural homes and build community organizations in countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Egypt, Syria, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda and Mozambique.
The AKFC, a registered Canadian charity, is part of the Aga Khan Foundation, the world’s largest private international development network, established by His Highness the Aga Khan, the 49th hereditary imam of an estimated 12 million Ismaili Muslims around the globe.
The foundation is non-denominational agency dedicated to the promotion of equitable and sustainable development particularly in Asia, Africa and the Middle East without regard to faith, origin, or gender.
AKFC currently funds more than 40 development initiatives in a dozen developing countries.
All of the funds raised by participants in the walk go directly to international development initiatives like health programs, education and support for community-based initiatives.
Not a single cent is spent on administration, which are covered by the foundation.
AKFC officials emphasize events like the World Partnership Walk bring Canadians together in a common effort to bring hope and renewal to some of the poorest nations in the world and provides a tremendous help in alleviating global poverty.
One of the most significant global challenges is fighting poverty, whose affects are far reaching.
The walk’s continuing success is a tangible sign of the commitment of individual Canadians to the cause of global poverty alleviation.
In light of the tough economic situation, the AKFC is urging its supporters to invite Canadians from all walks of life to join in the vital partnership with communities in the developing world.
“Canadians have a tradition of caring about the world beyond our borders that has found expression in the World Partnership Walk,” said Khalil Shariff, chief executive officer of AKFC. “For a quarter century, we have counted on the support of our volunteers and the generosity of Canadians to help AKFC bridge the gaps that deny opportunities to the poor.”
Participants can register online, quickly and easily, at www.worldpartnershipwalk.com.
The foundation and the Canadian government, primarily through CIDA, have enjoyed a close working relationship for more than a quarter of a century. CIDA provides funding for a number of programs that the foundation supports in developing countries.
CIDA and AKFC work in close partnership to develop effective solutions to poverty. And with assistance from CIDA, the impact of funds raised in Canada is multiplied many times.
This effort by Canadians is helping to bring true meaning to the “partnership” between them and impoverished communities around the globe.
Aid agencies around the world are openly expressing fear they may not be able to feed the poorest of the poor.
They expect 100 million people will experience food shortage.
The Aga Khan Foundation is respected for the work it does in areas of health care, education, rural development and strengthening civil society.
The foundation’s approach is unique.
It makes a long-term commitment to creating opportunities for families and communities living in some of the poorest parts of the world become self-reliant.
http://www.cornwallseawaynews.com/artic ... ution.html
Article online since May 7th 2009, 11:05
Be the first to comment on this article
Be part of the solution!
His Highness Aga Khan (left) with Prime Minister Stephen Harper during Khan’s recent visit to Canada. Seaway News photo
Be part of the solution!
Thousands of Canadians will be participating in a unique event in several cities later this month to fight global poverty in vulnerable communities particularly in Africa and Asia.
It was 25 years ago this year, that that a group of Ismaili Muslim women from Vancouver came together to walk and support the poorest of the poor.
It was a gesture of what they had gained in coming to Canada from troubled Uganda.
That was the start of the World Partnership Walk.
Idi Amin, the military dictator in 1972 expelled the entire Asian population from Uganda, blaming them for controlling the economy for their own ends.
Over the past 25 years, Canadians have raised more than $40.5 million to help fight global poverty.
Last year alone, nearly $6 million was raised.
This popular World Partnership Walk is now the largest and the longest-running event of this kind in aid of global development in the country.
The primary goal is to alleviate world poverty at a time when severe food crisis is escalating and sometimes erupting into unprecedented riots.
The World Partnership Walk, fuelled by the energy and dedication of committed volunteers, has engaged tens of thousands of Canadians with Aga Khan Foundation Canada and transformed millions of lives in some of the poorest parts of Asia and Africa.
Every cent collect goes directly to projects that encourage community participation and ultimately, the self-sufficiency of third-world villages.
The World Partnership Walk attracts around 50,000 participants in nine cities across Canada. The walk will be held over three weekends beginning on Sunday, May 31.
The event in Ottawa will be held June 7 while the walk in Montreal will be held May 31.
Funds raised by the walk have helped the Aga Khan Foundation Canada to leverage additional support from partners like the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
The walkers, along with 1,000 corporate sponsors, in Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal, London, Kitchener, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and Victoria contribute to fight poverty.
Since its inception in Vancouver in 1985, these walks have raised money to fund education, improve health care, increase rural homes and build community organizations in countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Egypt, Syria, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda and Mozambique.
The AKFC, a registered Canadian charity, is part of the Aga Khan Foundation, the world’s largest private international development network, established by His Highness the Aga Khan, the 49th hereditary imam of an estimated 12 million Ismaili Muslims around the globe.
The foundation is non-denominational agency dedicated to the promotion of equitable and sustainable development particularly in Asia, Africa and the Middle East without regard to faith, origin, or gender.
AKFC currently funds more than 40 development initiatives in a dozen developing countries.
All of the funds raised by participants in the walk go directly to international development initiatives like health programs, education and support for community-based initiatives.
Not a single cent is spent on administration, which are covered by the foundation.
AKFC officials emphasize events like the World Partnership Walk bring Canadians together in a common effort to bring hope and renewal to some of the poorest nations in the world and provides a tremendous help in alleviating global poverty.
One of the most significant global challenges is fighting poverty, whose affects are far reaching.
The walk’s continuing success is a tangible sign of the commitment of individual Canadians to the cause of global poverty alleviation.
In light of the tough economic situation, the AKFC is urging its supporters to invite Canadians from all walks of life to join in the vital partnership with communities in the developing world.
“Canadians have a tradition of caring about the world beyond our borders that has found expression in the World Partnership Walk,” said Khalil Shariff, chief executive officer of AKFC. “For a quarter century, we have counted on the support of our volunteers and the generosity of Canadians to help AKFC bridge the gaps that deny opportunities to the poor.”
Participants can register online, quickly and easily, at www.worldpartnershipwalk.com.
The foundation and the Canadian government, primarily through CIDA, have enjoyed a close working relationship for more than a quarter of a century. CIDA provides funding for a number of programs that the foundation supports in developing countries.
CIDA and AKFC work in close partnership to develop effective solutions to poverty. And with assistance from CIDA, the impact of funds raised in Canada is multiplied many times.
This effort by Canadians is helping to bring true meaning to the “partnership” between them and impoverished communities around the globe.
Aid agencies around the world are openly expressing fear they may not be able to feed the poorest of the poor.
They expect 100 million people will experience food shortage.
The Aga Khan Foundation is respected for the work it does in areas of health care, education, rural development and strengthening civil society.
The foundation’s approach is unique.
It makes a long-term commitment to creating opportunities for families and communities living in some of the poorest parts of the world become self-reliant.
World Partnership a worthwhile cause to take a walk for
Vancouver SunMay 22, 2009
It is said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
Other journeys, however, begin with a small group of women out to change the world. Journeys like the one started by Vancouver's Ismaili Women's Organizing Committee.
In 1985, a group of volunteers from the committee wanted to help people in the impoverished countries in which the volunteers were raised.
So with the simple words "rain or shine, walk with your family, bring your lunch," they persuaded nearly 1,000 people to join them in a walk to raise awareness of global poverty.
Those first steps raised more than $50,000, and also gave birth to the World Partnership Walk, an initiative of the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.
The walk, which symbolizes the commitment of Canadians to alleviating global poverty, now attracts tens of thousands of Canadians each year, making it the largest and most successful event of its kind in Canada.
Indeed, over the past quarter century the walk has grown exponentially, raising $45.5 million, including more than $5.5 million last year alone.
And this year, on its 25th anniversary, the walk promises to be bigger and better than ever.
This is certainly good news for people from poor countries around the world, since the foundation currently funds more than 30 development initiatives in a dozen countries, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Egypt, Mozambique, Mali and Uganda.
And instead of simply throwing money at people in developing countries, the foundation's programs are designed to foster self-sufficiency in four areas: health, education, rural development and strengthening community-based organizations.
The programs tap the initiative, entrepreneurship, resources and energy of poor communities, with special attention paid to the impact on the environment and the status of women.
The foundation is therefore sensitive to the effectiveness of its programs, and all projects are evaluated by external agencies, which have concluded that the foundation's "stewardship and utilization of donor funds is impeccable."
Indeed, 100 per cent of proceeds raised during the walk goes directly toward the development initiatives -- in other words, no funds from the walk are used to pay for administrative costs. And the funds raised also help the foundation to leverage additional support from major donors like the Canadian International Development Agency.
This means that you don't have to travel to far-off lands to to help people around the world.
Instead, you can do so by staying right here in Vancouver. And fortunately, there are several ways to participate.
First, you can become a walk ambassador and build awareness of global poverty.
Or you can strap on your sneakers and become part of the walk, either as an individual or as part of a community or corporate team.
RAIN OR SHINE
The 25th anniversary walk will take place on Sunday, May 31, from Lumbermen's Arch in Stanley Park.
Registration for the five-kilometre walk begins at 9 a.m. with opening ceremonies at 11 a.m.
For more information, visit worldpartnershipwalk.com or call 604-980-2949.
© Copyright (c) The Vancouver Sun
http://www.vancouversun.com/business/fp ... story.html
Vancouver SunMay 22, 2009
It is said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
Other journeys, however, begin with a small group of women out to change the world. Journeys like the one started by Vancouver's Ismaili Women's Organizing Committee.
In 1985, a group of volunteers from the committee wanted to help people in the impoverished countries in which the volunteers were raised.
So with the simple words "rain or shine, walk with your family, bring your lunch," they persuaded nearly 1,000 people to join them in a walk to raise awareness of global poverty.
Those first steps raised more than $50,000, and also gave birth to the World Partnership Walk, an initiative of the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.
The walk, which symbolizes the commitment of Canadians to alleviating global poverty, now attracts tens of thousands of Canadians each year, making it the largest and most successful event of its kind in Canada.
Indeed, over the past quarter century the walk has grown exponentially, raising $45.5 million, including more than $5.5 million last year alone.
And this year, on its 25th anniversary, the walk promises to be bigger and better than ever.
This is certainly good news for people from poor countries around the world, since the foundation currently funds more than 30 development initiatives in a dozen countries, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Egypt, Mozambique, Mali and Uganda.
And instead of simply throwing money at people in developing countries, the foundation's programs are designed to foster self-sufficiency in four areas: health, education, rural development and strengthening community-based organizations.
The programs tap the initiative, entrepreneurship, resources and energy of poor communities, with special attention paid to the impact on the environment and the status of women.
The foundation is therefore sensitive to the effectiveness of its programs, and all projects are evaluated by external agencies, which have concluded that the foundation's "stewardship and utilization of donor funds is impeccable."
Indeed, 100 per cent of proceeds raised during the walk goes directly toward the development initiatives -- in other words, no funds from the walk are used to pay for administrative costs. And the funds raised also help the foundation to leverage additional support from major donors like the Canadian International Development Agency.
This means that you don't have to travel to far-off lands to to help people around the world.
Instead, you can do so by staying right here in Vancouver. And fortunately, there are several ways to participate.
First, you can become a walk ambassador and build awareness of global poverty.
Or you can strap on your sneakers and become part of the walk, either as an individual or as part of a community or corporate team.
RAIN OR SHINE
The 25th anniversary walk will take place on Sunday, May 31, from Lumbermen's Arch in Stanley Park.
Registration for the five-kilometre walk begins at 9 a.m. with opening ceremonies at 11 a.m.
For more information, visit worldpartnershipwalk.com or call 604-980-2949.
© Copyright (c) The Vancouver Sun
http://www.vancouversun.com/business/fp ... story.html
Aga Khan Foundation Canada is delighted to host Ian Smillie for the launch of his most recent book: Freedom From Want – The Remarkable Success Story of BRAC, the Global Grassroots Organization that’s Winning the Fight Against Poverty.
Please join us on Tuesday, May 26, 2009 at 5.00 p.m. at the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat, located at 199 Sussex Drive in Ottawa to meet this distinguished author and learn about BRAC’s remarkable evolution from a small relief operation into what is arguably the largest and most diverse social experiment in the developing world.
For more information on this event, please contact Aga Khan Foundation Canada at [email protected].
Please note that there is no on-site parking but parking is available on the neighbouring streets as indicated.
******
See how the funds raised in Canada through the World Partnership Walk are benefiting impoverished communities.
http://www.youtube.com/user/WorldPartnershipWalk
*****
This Year’s World Partnership Walk Dedicated To Fighting Global Poverty
VANCOUVER - Vancouver will join with cities across Canada at 11 a.m. on Sunday, May 31st at Lumberman’s Arch in Stanley Park in the World Partnership Walk to increase awareness and raise funds to help fight global poverty.
An initiative of Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC), the Walk is in its 25th year, and continues to grow as Canadians become more aware of the importance of the cause.
Organized by dedicated volunteers in nine cities across the country, the Walk attracts tens of thousands of Canadians united in a common effort to bring hope and renewal to communities in some of the world’s most isolated and impoverished regions. All funds raised by participants (100%) go directly to programs in international development. Not a cent in spent on administration. Support for the Walk also helps AKFC leverage additional contributions from major donors like the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
This year, the Walk is expected to involve more than 70,000 people as participants and donors in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Kitchener, London, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and Victoria. As well, some 800 corporations are involved.
Since its inception, the Walk has raised more than $45 million across Canada; last year close to $6 million was collected to enhance the quality of education, improve healthcare, increase rural incomes and build the capacity of community organizations in Asia and Africa.
“Our participants, volunteers and donors have made a significant contribution to the fight against global poverty,” said Tazim Bhimji, Convenor for the World Partnership Walk in Vancouver. “Canadians have much to offer – financially, but also a set of values that includes caring about those in need beyond our borders. Through efforts such as the Walk, Canadians can help create opportunities for the poor of the world to reach their full potential as human beings and to live in hope and dignity.”
The World Partnership Walk provides an experience that is both meaningful and fun for the entire family through activities that inform, educate, celebrate and entertain. Activities include a 5 KM walk, live multicultural entertainment, warm-up by Jazzercise, sports clinics, delicious barbeque, snacks and tropical juices. Participants include Vancouverites from all walks of life, over 900 volunteers, several corporate and school teams. The lineup of local sponsors is outstanding, including Scotiabank, HSBC, KPMG, BMO Bank of Montreal, RBC Royal Bank, PricewaterhouseCoopers, HUB International TOS, Choices Market, and Amica Mature Lifestyles among others.
Walk day begins with an opening ceremony featuring notable dignitaries who lend their support to the cause of ending global poverty. News anchors Mi-Jung Lee of CTV and Randene Neill of Global BC along with Breakfast Television hosts Dawn Chubai and Riaz Meghji of Citytv will serve as Masters of Ceremonies during the opening ceremonies and the afternoon program of entertainment.
One of the Walk’s most inspiring features is the Global Village – an interactive exhibit where participants of all ages will get a glimpse of the development programs supported by AKFC. Through interactive displays, images, audio and stories, visitors to the Global Village will learn the many ways in which Canada and Canadians are supporting long-term, positive change among impoverished communities in Asia and Africa and how their contributions are making a difference in the developing world.
World Partnership Walk participants can join as individual Ambassadors, teams, corporate donors or sponsors. Registration can be done online, securely and easily by visiting www.worldpartnershipwalk.com or by calling 1-800-267-2532.
25 May 2009 by editor
http://www.thelinkpaper.ca/index.php?su ... at=3&cat=3
Please join us on Tuesday, May 26, 2009 at 5.00 p.m. at the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat, located at 199 Sussex Drive in Ottawa to meet this distinguished author and learn about BRAC’s remarkable evolution from a small relief operation into what is arguably the largest and most diverse social experiment in the developing world.
For more information on this event, please contact Aga Khan Foundation Canada at [email protected].
Please note that there is no on-site parking but parking is available on the neighbouring streets as indicated.
******
See how the funds raised in Canada through the World Partnership Walk are benefiting impoverished communities.
http://www.youtube.com/user/WorldPartnershipWalk
*****
This Year’s World Partnership Walk Dedicated To Fighting Global Poverty
VANCOUVER - Vancouver will join with cities across Canada at 11 a.m. on Sunday, May 31st at Lumberman’s Arch in Stanley Park in the World Partnership Walk to increase awareness and raise funds to help fight global poverty.
An initiative of Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC), the Walk is in its 25th year, and continues to grow as Canadians become more aware of the importance of the cause.
Organized by dedicated volunteers in nine cities across the country, the Walk attracts tens of thousands of Canadians united in a common effort to bring hope and renewal to communities in some of the world’s most isolated and impoverished regions. All funds raised by participants (100%) go directly to programs in international development. Not a cent in spent on administration. Support for the Walk also helps AKFC leverage additional contributions from major donors like the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
This year, the Walk is expected to involve more than 70,000 people as participants and donors in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Kitchener, London, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and Victoria. As well, some 800 corporations are involved.
Since its inception, the Walk has raised more than $45 million across Canada; last year close to $6 million was collected to enhance the quality of education, improve healthcare, increase rural incomes and build the capacity of community organizations in Asia and Africa.
“Our participants, volunteers and donors have made a significant contribution to the fight against global poverty,” said Tazim Bhimji, Convenor for the World Partnership Walk in Vancouver. “Canadians have much to offer – financially, but also a set of values that includes caring about those in need beyond our borders. Through efforts such as the Walk, Canadians can help create opportunities for the poor of the world to reach their full potential as human beings and to live in hope and dignity.”
The World Partnership Walk provides an experience that is both meaningful and fun for the entire family through activities that inform, educate, celebrate and entertain. Activities include a 5 KM walk, live multicultural entertainment, warm-up by Jazzercise, sports clinics, delicious barbeque, snacks and tropical juices. Participants include Vancouverites from all walks of life, over 900 volunteers, several corporate and school teams. The lineup of local sponsors is outstanding, including Scotiabank, HSBC, KPMG, BMO Bank of Montreal, RBC Royal Bank, PricewaterhouseCoopers, HUB International TOS, Choices Market, and Amica Mature Lifestyles among others.
Walk day begins with an opening ceremony featuring notable dignitaries who lend their support to the cause of ending global poverty. News anchors Mi-Jung Lee of CTV and Randene Neill of Global BC along with Breakfast Television hosts Dawn Chubai and Riaz Meghji of Citytv will serve as Masters of Ceremonies during the opening ceremonies and the afternoon program of entertainment.
One of the Walk’s most inspiring features is the Global Village – an interactive exhibit where participants of all ages will get a glimpse of the development programs supported by AKFC. Through interactive displays, images, audio and stories, visitors to the Global Village will learn the many ways in which Canada and Canadians are supporting long-term, positive change among impoverished communities in Asia and Africa and how their contributions are making a difference in the developing world.
World Partnership Walk participants can join as individual Ambassadors, teams, corporate donors or sponsors. Registration can be done online, securely and easily by visiting www.worldpartnershipwalk.com or by calling 1-800-267-2532.
25 May 2009 by editor
http://www.thelinkpaper.ca/index.php?su ... at=3&cat=3
Victoria News
Partnership walk tackles African poverty
Megan Hamlet is a big supporter of the Aga Khan Foundation's World Partnership Walk. Not only will she be taking part in this Sunday's event in Victoria, the Abe Books employee will travel this summer to Kenya to visit some of the foundation's community development project sites.
Don Descoteau/News staff
Buy Victoria News Photos Online
By Don Descoteau - Victoria News
Published: May 28, 2009 6:00 PM
Megan Hamlet was struck by a video she watched last year of local journalist Meribeth Burton touring East Africa.
Burton and her TV crew were taping a five-part series on the Aga Khan Foundation's development work in Kenya and Zanzibar and showing where money raised in Canada is being put to work to help people desperately in need.
"Once I saw the video I knew it was something I wanted to be involved in," Hamlet said.
The foundation, which is hosting its 25th World Partnership Walk in nine Canadian cities including Victoria this Sunday (May 31), has a hand-up philosophy designed to teach people in impoverished countries how to support and sustain themselves and their families.
"It's all about empowerment and teaching new ideas and changing the cultural mindscape and being able to say how do you see your future," Hamlet said.
The 30-year-old customer service rep at Abe Books has raised more than $6,000 through various initiatives, largely at her office. Not only will she be taking part in Sunday's walk, she is travelling to Kenya in July to experience firsthand how Aga Khan Foundation workers teach sustainability.
Organizers of this weekend's walk in Victoria hope to convey to a larger audience the foundation's philosophy.
"I think people are more conscious of poverty in the world," said Naz Rayani, Victoria convenor for the Walk and an active advocate of the foundation's international development programs for more than 20 years.
That consciousness helped the local chapter raise $270,000 last year alone and they're shooting for $300,000 this time out, he said.
Registration for the walk is at 10 a.m. at the Cameron bandshell in Beacon Hill Park. The walk begins at 11 a.m. with a five-kilometre route to Clover Point or a shorter one for children and the elderly. Lunch and entertainment are provided afterward. For more information or to donate, go to www.worldpartnershipwalk.com or call 1-888-221-5571.
[email protected]
http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_is ... 71262.html
Partnership walk tackles African poverty
Megan Hamlet is a big supporter of the Aga Khan Foundation's World Partnership Walk. Not only will she be taking part in this Sunday's event in Victoria, the Abe Books employee will travel this summer to Kenya to visit some of the foundation's community development project sites.
Don Descoteau/News staff
Buy Victoria News Photos Online
By Don Descoteau - Victoria News
Published: May 28, 2009 6:00 PM
Megan Hamlet was struck by a video she watched last year of local journalist Meribeth Burton touring East Africa.
Burton and her TV crew were taping a five-part series on the Aga Khan Foundation's development work in Kenya and Zanzibar and showing where money raised in Canada is being put to work to help people desperately in need.
"Once I saw the video I knew it was something I wanted to be involved in," Hamlet said.
The foundation, which is hosting its 25th World Partnership Walk in nine Canadian cities including Victoria this Sunday (May 31), has a hand-up philosophy designed to teach people in impoverished countries how to support and sustain themselves and their families.
"It's all about empowerment and teaching new ideas and changing the cultural mindscape and being able to say how do you see your future," Hamlet said.
The 30-year-old customer service rep at Abe Books has raised more than $6,000 through various initiatives, largely at her office. Not only will she be taking part in Sunday's walk, she is travelling to Kenya in July to experience firsthand how Aga Khan Foundation workers teach sustainability.
Organizers of this weekend's walk in Victoria hope to convey to a larger audience the foundation's philosophy.
"I think people are more conscious of poverty in the world," said Naz Rayani, Victoria convenor for the Walk and an active advocate of the foundation's international development programs for more than 20 years.
That consciousness helped the local chapter raise $270,000 last year alone and they're shooting for $300,000 this time out, he said.
Registration for the walk is at 10 a.m. at the Cameron bandshell in Beacon Hill Park. The walk begins at 11 a.m. with a five-kilometre route to Clover Point or a shorter one for children and the elderly. Lunch and entertainment are provided afterward. For more information or to donate, go to www.worldpartnershipwalk.com or call 1-888-221-5571.
[email protected]
http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_is ... 71262.html
Toronto joins World Partnership Walk to fight global poverty
Posted: 29 May 2009 05:53 AM PDT
On Sunday, May 31st, 2009 residents of Toronto will join Canadians in 7 cities across Canada in the World Partnership Walk, an event to increase awareness and raise funds to help fight global poverty.
Sunday, May 31, 2009 9:00 a.m. Registration begins
10:00 a.m. Opening Ceremonies
11:15 a.m. Start of Walk
1:00 p.m. Post Walk lunch, entertainment and displays
Metro Hall, 55 John Street, SE Corner King and John
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c8885.html
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c9001.html
Posted: 29 May 2009 05:53 AM PDT
On Sunday, May 31st, 2009 residents of Toronto will join Canadians in 7 cities across Canada in the World Partnership Walk, an event to increase awareness and raise funds to help fight global poverty.
Sunday, May 31, 2009 9:00 a.m. Registration begins
10:00 a.m. Opening Ceremonies
11:15 a.m. Start of Walk
1:00 p.m. Post Walk lunch, entertainment and displays
Metro Hall, 55 John Street, SE Corner King and John
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c8885.html
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c9001.html
Ten thousand people and bright sunshine expected for Sunday's charity walk
Aga Khan Foundation's World Partnership Walk raises funds for developing countries
Mary Frances Hill
Vancouver Sun
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Thousands of philanthropists will lace up their shoes Sunday for the 25th annual World Partnership Walk, an initiative of the Aga Khan Foundation of Canada.
A forecast of 23 degrees C and bright sunshine will welcome an expected 10,000 walkers and strollers to the five- kilometre walk starting at 11 a.m. at Lumberman's Arch in Stanley Park, according to Noreen Mohamed, spokesperson for the event.
Last year's walk attracted 7,000 participants, she said on Friday.
One hundred per cent of all funds raised go to help people in developing countries in Africa and Central Asia, and "not one single cent is spent on administration, and it's organized by a network of 900 volunteers," Mohamed explained.
The walk began in 1985, inspired by a group of volunteers from Vancouver's Ismaili Women's Organization Committee.
They were driven by a commitment to give back to the impoverished countries where they had spent their childhoods.
In the first year, some 1,000 people raised about $55,000 in support of the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.
Since then, corporate donors and team supporters have joined the effort; in the last 24 years, the walk has raised more than $45 million, including more than $5.5 million raised last year from events across Canada.
The five-kilometre walk extends beyond philanthropy. The event includes a Kid's World entertainment space, a Global Village area where participants can learn about international development, and a barbecue lunch and refreshments.
Though the Aga Khan Foundation has its origins in Ismaili culture, the walk is non-denominational, and "Canadians of all faiths and backgrounds are welcome," Mohamed said.
Opening ceremonies begin at Lumberman's Arch at 11 a.m., with a ribbon-cutting a half-hour later. Registration is free and can be done securely and easily online at www.worldpartnershipwalk.com; by calling 1-800-267-2532; or by registering on walk day at Lumberman's Arch from 9 a.m.
[email protected]
© The Vancouver Sun 2009
Aga Khan Foundation's World Partnership Walk raises funds for developing countries
Mary Frances Hill
Vancouver Sun
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Thousands of philanthropists will lace up their shoes Sunday for the 25th annual World Partnership Walk, an initiative of the Aga Khan Foundation of Canada.
A forecast of 23 degrees C and bright sunshine will welcome an expected 10,000 walkers and strollers to the five- kilometre walk starting at 11 a.m. at Lumberman's Arch in Stanley Park, according to Noreen Mohamed, spokesperson for the event.
Last year's walk attracted 7,000 participants, she said on Friday.
One hundred per cent of all funds raised go to help people in developing countries in Africa and Central Asia, and "not one single cent is spent on administration, and it's organized by a network of 900 volunteers," Mohamed explained.
The walk began in 1985, inspired by a group of volunteers from Vancouver's Ismaili Women's Organization Committee.
They were driven by a commitment to give back to the impoverished countries where they had spent their childhoods.
In the first year, some 1,000 people raised about $55,000 in support of the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.
Since then, corporate donors and team supporters have joined the effort; in the last 24 years, the walk has raised more than $45 million, including more than $5.5 million raised last year from events across Canada.
The five-kilometre walk extends beyond philanthropy. The event includes a Kid's World entertainment space, a Global Village area where participants can learn about international development, and a barbecue lunch and refreshments.
Though the Aga Khan Foundation has its origins in Ismaili culture, the walk is non-denominational, and "Canadians of all faiths and backgrounds are welcome," Mohamed said.
Opening ceremonies begin at Lumberman's Arch at 11 a.m., with a ribbon-cutting a half-hour later. Registration is free and can be done securely and easily online at www.worldpartnershipwalk.com; by calling 1-800-267-2532; or by registering on walk day at Lumberman's Arch from 9 a.m.
[email protected]
© The Vancouver Sun 2009
June 1, 2009
One step makes a difference
By DHARM MAKWANA, 24 HOURS
Premier Gordon Campbell, Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson, many other dignitaries and thousands of people kicked off the 25th annual World Partnership Walk in Stanley Park yesterday. (Carmine Marinelli, 24 hours)
http://vancouver.24hrs.ca/News/local/20 ... 33346.html
Thousands stepped up to take part in the World Partnership Walk at Stanley Park.
More than $2 million raised through yesterday's fundraising march - marking its silver anniversary - will go to the Aga Khan Foundation to finance development programs in remote villages across Asia and Africa.
"The cause is about creating sustainable community solutions in the poorest communities," said Shellina Lakhdhir, regional campaign manager. "These people are the ones who make less than $2 a day."
To date, World Partnership Walks across nine Canadian cities have raised $45.5 million.
Often the money goes towards building health and education facilities and social and agricultural programs.
Al Kanji, a senior partner with KPMG, said his firm chose to participate in the walk because of its universal appeal.
"People are very enthusiastic," he said. "All sorts of age groups, ethnicities, religious groups have no biases."
*****
Aga Khan's Vancouver walk raises $2 million for global poverty fight
By Carmen Chai, The ProvinceMay 31, 2009
Sara Janmohamed 2 1/2 of West Vancouver joined thousands of walkers in the World Partnership Walk to raise funds to help fight global poverty in Stanley Park Sunday morning.
Photograph by: Sam Leung , The ProvinceThousands of Vancouver residents gathered at Stanley Park Sunday to take part in the 25th-annual World Partnership Walk.
Nearly 10,000 participants walked five-kilometres to raise $2 million for the Aga Khan Foundation Canada which sends proceeds to help development and education programs in villages in Asia and Africa. Premier Gordon Campbell and Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson were among the thousands of participants who gathered at Lumberman’s Arch at 11 a.m.
“It’s about walking in someone else’s shoes,” said Shellina Lakhdhir, walk spokeswoman.
Lakhdhir emigrated from Pakistan eight years ago and has taken part in the walk for the last seven.
“Girls from Pakistan and Africa and Asia have to walk for five kilometres to fetch water instead of going to school. The five kilometres of walking signifies the suffering they have to go through on a day-to-day basis.” Since the walk began, $45 million has been raised, $6 million in 2008 alone.
“We planted a little seed in the ground and the seed just grew,” said Izzat Mawani, one of the 17 founders of the walk.
“We were so lucky and privileged, we wanted to leave some money for women in the third world,” she said, explaining why they started the walk. “But we never thought it would come to this point. It sends shivers down my spine.”
© Copyright (c) The Province
http://www.theprovince.com/story_print. ... 7&sponsor=
****
Sun May. 31 2009 4:23:03 PM
Thousands walk in downtown Toronto to end poverty
Web Staff, cp24.com
Thousands walk during the annual World Partnership Walk to raise money for people living in poverty in developing contries on May 31, 2009. (Sam Katz/My Breaking News)
Up to 7000 people laced up today to raise money for people in Africa and Asia.
The World Partnership Walk is Canada's largest annual event dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the Aga Khan Foundation.
One hundred per cent of all funds raised go to help people in developing countries.
This year marks the 25th anniversary for the Partnership Walk.
Since the Walk's inception, more than $ 45 million has been raised in support of the Aga Khan Foundation Canada, making it the largest and most successful event of its kind in Canada.
*****
Canadians Across the Country Join in Fight Against Global Poverty
Sunday, May 31st, 2009
(Sunday, June 7th in Ottawa
Sunday, June 14th in Calgary)
www.worldpartnershipwalk.com
OTTAWA, May 31 /CNW Telbec/ - The 25th annual World Partnership Walk
brought together tens of thousands of Canadians in seven cities across the
country to fight poverty in the developing world. The largest event of its
kind in Canada, the Walk this year is estimated to have attracted a record
number of participants. Two more Walks are scheduled: Ottawa on June 7th and
in Calgary on June 14th.
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c9452.html
One step makes a difference
By DHARM MAKWANA, 24 HOURS
Premier Gordon Campbell, Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson, many other dignitaries and thousands of people kicked off the 25th annual World Partnership Walk in Stanley Park yesterday. (Carmine Marinelli, 24 hours)
http://vancouver.24hrs.ca/News/local/20 ... 33346.html
Thousands stepped up to take part in the World Partnership Walk at Stanley Park.
More than $2 million raised through yesterday's fundraising march - marking its silver anniversary - will go to the Aga Khan Foundation to finance development programs in remote villages across Asia and Africa.
"The cause is about creating sustainable community solutions in the poorest communities," said Shellina Lakhdhir, regional campaign manager. "These people are the ones who make less than $2 a day."
To date, World Partnership Walks across nine Canadian cities have raised $45.5 million.
Often the money goes towards building health and education facilities and social and agricultural programs.
Al Kanji, a senior partner with KPMG, said his firm chose to participate in the walk because of its universal appeal.
"People are very enthusiastic," he said. "All sorts of age groups, ethnicities, religious groups have no biases."
*****
Aga Khan's Vancouver walk raises $2 million for global poverty fight
By Carmen Chai, The ProvinceMay 31, 2009
Sara Janmohamed 2 1/2 of West Vancouver joined thousands of walkers in the World Partnership Walk to raise funds to help fight global poverty in Stanley Park Sunday morning.
Photograph by: Sam Leung , The ProvinceThousands of Vancouver residents gathered at Stanley Park Sunday to take part in the 25th-annual World Partnership Walk.
Nearly 10,000 participants walked five-kilometres to raise $2 million for the Aga Khan Foundation Canada which sends proceeds to help development and education programs in villages in Asia and Africa. Premier Gordon Campbell and Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson were among the thousands of participants who gathered at Lumberman’s Arch at 11 a.m.
“It’s about walking in someone else’s shoes,” said Shellina Lakhdhir, walk spokeswoman.
Lakhdhir emigrated from Pakistan eight years ago and has taken part in the walk for the last seven.
“Girls from Pakistan and Africa and Asia have to walk for five kilometres to fetch water instead of going to school. The five kilometres of walking signifies the suffering they have to go through on a day-to-day basis.” Since the walk began, $45 million has been raised, $6 million in 2008 alone.
“We planted a little seed in the ground and the seed just grew,” said Izzat Mawani, one of the 17 founders of the walk.
“We were so lucky and privileged, we wanted to leave some money for women in the third world,” she said, explaining why they started the walk. “But we never thought it would come to this point. It sends shivers down my spine.”
© Copyright (c) The Province
http://www.theprovince.com/story_print. ... 7&sponsor=
****
Sun May. 31 2009 4:23:03 PM
Thousands walk in downtown Toronto to end poverty
Web Staff, cp24.com
Thousands walk during the annual World Partnership Walk to raise money for people living in poverty in developing contries on May 31, 2009. (Sam Katz/My Breaking News)
Up to 7000 people laced up today to raise money for people in Africa and Asia.
The World Partnership Walk is Canada's largest annual event dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the Aga Khan Foundation.
One hundred per cent of all funds raised go to help people in developing countries.
This year marks the 25th anniversary for the Partnership Walk.
Since the Walk's inception, more than $ 45 million has been raised in support of the Aga Khan Foundation Canada, making it the largest and most successful event of its kind in Canada.
*****
Canadians Across the Country Join in Fight Against Global Poverty
Sunday, May 31st, 2009
(Sunday, June 7th in Ottawa
Sunday, June 14th in Calgary)
www.worldpartnershipwalk.com
OTTAWA, May 31 /CNW Telbec/ - The 25th annual World Partnership Walk
brought together tens of thousands of Canadians in seven cities across the
country to fight poverty in the developing world. The largest event of its
kind in Canada, the Walk this year is estimated to have attracted a record
number of participants. Two more Walks are scheduled: Ottawa on June 7th and
in Calgary on June 14th.
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c9452.html
Walkers raise $75K to fight global poverty
TheRecord.com - Local - Walkers raise $75K to fight global poverty
RECORD STAFF
KITCHENER
About 800 people laced up their shoes in Kitchener's Victoria Park and raised more than $75,000 to fight global poverty.
They were taking part in the World Partnership Walk, a fundraising event for the Aga Khan Foundation Canada that began in Vancouver in 1985.
"Money is still coming in," convener Basheer Habib said shortly before the walk through this downtown park.
This is the 25th anniversary of this fundraising event in Canada and the 18th year since residents in Waterloo Region took up the cause.
The event was held concurrently Sunday in seven Canadian cities, including Kitchener.
"There will be about 70,000 people walking coast-to-coast to bring awareness and raise money to alleviate poverty," Habib said in an interview.
Since its inception, more than $40 million has been raised and all of the funds go directly to development programs in Africa and Asia.
None of the money will go toward to fighting local poverty, he said.
Victoria Park was dotted with blue and orange balloons and banners and signs to encourage the walkers.
"Walk the walk. Change the world," read one sign. "We have fantastic support here," Habib said.
TheRecord.com - Local - Walkers raise $75K to fight global poverty
RECORD STAFF
KITCHENER
About 800 people laced up their shoes in Kitchener's Victoria Park and raised more than $75,000 to fight global poverty.
They were taking part in the World Partnership Walk, a fundraising event for the Aga Khan Foundation Canada that began in Vancouver in 1985.
"Money is still coming in," convener Basheer Habib said shortly before the walk through this downtown park.
This is the 25th anniversary of this fundraising event in Canada and the 18th year since residents in Waterloo Region took up the cause.
The event was held concurrently Sunday in seven Canadian cities, including Kitchener.
"There will be about 70,000 people walking coast-to-coast to bring awareness and raise money to alleviate poverty," Habib said in an interview.
Since its inception, more than $40 million has been raised and all of the funds go directly to development programs in Africa and Asia.
None of the money will go toward to fighting local poverty, he said.
Victoria Park was dotted with blue and orange balloons and banners and signs to encourage the walkers.
"Walk the walk. Change the world," read one sign. "We have fantastic support here," Habib said.
25th Edition of World Partnership Walk in Ottawa
June 7, 2009
Posted by ismailimail in Aga Khan Foundation, Canada, North America, Partnerships in Action.
trackback
The 25th Edition of the World Partnership Walk in Ottawa takes place today, Sunday, June 7th at Confederation Park (Laurier and Elgin). Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. and the Walk commences at 11:30am.
Let us together, with family, friends and colleagues, walk the Walk along the scenic Rideau Canal, be inspired by an interactive Global Village and support the fight against global poverty.
Organized by dedicated volunteers in nine cities across the country, the Walk attracts tens of thousands of Canadians united in a common effort to bring hope and renewal to communities in some of the world’s most isolated and impoverished regions. All funds raised by participants (100%) go directly to programs in international development. Not a cent in spent on administration. Support for the Walk also helps AKFC leverage additional contributions from major donors like the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
This year, the Walk is expected to involve more than 70,000 people as participants and donors in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Kitchener, London, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and Victoria. As well, some 800 corporations are involved.
In addition to taking part in the 5-kilometre walk along the Rideau Canal, participants are invited to visit the Global Village – an interactive display that showcases, through images, voices and stories, the many ways in which Canada and Canadians are supporting long-term, positive change among impoverished communities in Asia and Africa.
It’s not too late to join the World Partnership Walk as an individual Ambassador, a team or a corporate donor. Donations can be made in person on Walk Day or online, securely and easily, by visiting www.worldpartnershipwalk.com or by calling 1-800-267-2532.
http://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2009/0 ... in-ottawa/
*****
More media coverage of World Partnership Walk 2009 in Canada June 7, 2009
Posted by ismailimail in Aga Khan Foundation, Canada, North America, Partnerships in Action, Pictures, Video.
trackback
Click on the links below to read about the World Partnership Walk in the news
Vancouver 24 Hours – Cover Story June 1, 2009
The Vancouver Sun – May 31, 2009
The Vancouver Sun – Photo Gallery
The Province – June 1, 2009
Vancouver 24 hours – Video on the Walk
Gallery of Walk Day Photos
http://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2009/0 ... in-canada/
June 7, 2009
Posted by ismailimail in Aga Khan Foundation, Canada, North America, Partnerships in Action.
trackback
The 25th Edition of the World Partnership Walk in Ottawa takes place today, Sunday, June 7th at Confederation Park (Laurier and Elgin). Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. and the Walk commences at 11:30am.
Let us together, with family, friends and colleagues, walk the Walk along the scenic Rideau Canal, be inspired by an interactive Global Village and support the fight against global poverty.
Organized by dedicated volunteers in nine cities across the country, the Walk attracts tens of thousands of Canadians united in a common effort to bring hope and renewal to communities in some of the world’s most isolated and impoverished regions. All funds raised by participants (100%) go directly to programs in international development. Not a cent in spent on administration. Support for the Walk also helps AKFC leverage additional contributions from major donors like the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
This year, the Walk is expected to involve more than 70,000 people as participants and donors in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Kitchener, London, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and Victoria. As well, some 800 corporations are involved.
In addition to taking part in the 5-kilometre walk along the Rideau Canal, participants are invited to visit the Global Village – an interactive display that showcases, through images, voices and stories, the many ways in which Canada and Canadians are supporting long-term, positive change among impoverished communities in Asia and Africa.
It’s not too late to join the World Partnership Walk as an individual Ambassador, a team or a corporate donor. Donations can be made in person on Walk Day or online, securely and easily, by visiting www.worldpartnershipwalk.com or by calling 1-800-267-2532.
http://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2009/0 ... in-ottawa/
*****
More media coverage of World Partnership Walk 2009 in Canada June 7, 2009
Posted by ismailimail in Aga Khan Foundation, Canada, North America, Partnerships in Action, Pictures, Video.
trackback
Click on the links below to read about the World Partnership Walk in the news
Vancouver 24 Hours – Cover Story June 1, 2009
The Vancouver Sun – May 31, 2009
The Vancouver Sun – Photo Gallery
The Province – June 1, 2009
Vancouver 24 hours – Video on the Walk
Gallery of Walk Day Photos
http://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2009/0 ... in-canada/
Video: AKF Canada committed to enhancing the role of women in the development process
July 11, 2009
Posted by ismailimail in Aga Khan Foundation, Canada, North America.
trackback
Smart Solutions – Gender development initiative
Aga Khan Foundation Canada is committed to enhancing the role of women in the development process. This means creating leadership opportunities for women, from village organizations that manage schools and health services in Mozambique to income-generating groups that improve the circumstances of entire communities in Pakistan.
http://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2009/0 ... t-process/
July 11, 2009
Posted by ismailimail in Aga Khan Foundation, Canada, North America.
trackback
Smart Solutions – Gender development initiative
Aga Khan Foundation Canada is committed to enhancing the role of women in the development process. This means creating leadership opportunities for women, from village organizations that manage schools and health services in Mozambique to income-generating groups that improve the circumstances of entire communities in Pakistan.
http://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2009/0 ... t-process/
Video: Khalil Shariff, CEO of AKF Canada at the Bridges That Unite Exhibit presented at Pier 21, Halifax November 6, 2009
Posted by ismailimail in Aga Khan Foundation, Bridges that Unite, Canada, North America, Video.
Tags: Khalil Shariff
trackback
Khalil Z. Shariff, CEO of Aga Khan Foundation Canada, speaks to guests at From Kabul to Halifax: An evening of Afghan Music and Culture, a performance featuring renowned Afghan-Canadian Musician Vaheed Kaacemy. The event marked the closing of the Bridges That Unite exhibit in Halifax on November 3, 2009.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieSuvexAbvg
Posted by ismailimail in Aga Khan Foundation, Bridges that Unite, Canada, North America, Video.
Tags: Khalil Shariff
trackback
Khalil Z. Shariff, CEO of Aga Khan Foundation Canada, speaks to guests at From Kabul to Halifax: An evening of Afghan Music and Culture, a performance featuring renowned Afghan-Canadian Musician Vaheed Kaacemy. The event marked the closing of the Bridges That Unite exhibit in Halifax on November 3, 2009.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieSuvexAbvg
Aga Khan Foundation Canada
2010-2011 International Development Fellowship Program
Aga Khan Foundation Canada is pleased to announce that it is now accepting applications for the 2010-2011 International Development Fellowship Program.
This nine-month program provides unparalleled opportunities for young professionals to apply their skills and share their expertise with development organizations in Asia and Africa while broadening their understanding of international development.
For more information or to download the application form, please visit AKFC's website at www.akfc.ca. The deadline for application is February 1, 2010.
http://www.mcgill.ca/internships/opportunities/agakhan/
2010-2011 International Development Fellowship Program
Aga Khan Foundation Canada is pleased to announce that it is now accepting applications for the 2010-2011 International Development Fellowship Program.
This nine-month program provides unparalleled opportunities for young professionals to apply their skills and share their expertise with development organizations in Asia and Africa while broadening their understanding of international development.
For more information or to download the application form, please visit AKFC's website at www.akfc.ca. The deadline for application is February 1, 2010.
http://www.mcgill.ca/internships/opportunities/agakhan/
WHAT IS CANADA’S ROLE IN A WORLD WHERE POVERTY AND HOPELESSNESS THRIVE?
By kat, December 18, 2009, Comments(0)
With this provocative question, BRIDGESTHATUNITE, a bilingual traveling exhibition, invites visitors to consider Canada’s global leadership role through the lens of a remarkable 25-year partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Built on a set of common values, such as pluralism, democracy and peace, this unique partnership is replacing walls that divide the developed and developing worlds with bridges that unite us.
Through the creative interplay of audio, video, text panels, bold graphics and interactive components, BRIDGESTHATUNITE challenges visitors to confront typical assumptions about what international development is and what it can achieve — and injects evidence about Canada’s own experience into the public debate.
Accompanying the exhibition is a robust programming component, including:
– Lectures and panel discussions
– School programs and activities for youth
– Cultural events, including musical performances and film screenings
Hours:
Open Tuesday – Sunday: 9:00AM-5:00PM and Monday, February 15th (Family Day)
Closed Mondays (see exception above).
ADMISSION IS FREE
Location: Canada Science and Technology Museum, 1867 St. Laurent Blvd. Ottawa, ON K1G 5A3
Date: January 28th – February 28th, 2010
For more information or to book your group, visit www.bridgesthatunite.ca, contact [email protected] or call 1-800-267-2532 extension 8.
Your Comments:
http://blog.ottawakiosk.com/?p=759
By kat, December 18, 2009, Comments(0)
With this provocative question, BRIDGESTHATUNITE, a bilingual traveling exhibition, invites visitors to consider Canada’s global leadership role through the lens of a remarkable 25-year partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Built on a set of common values, such as pluralism, democracy and peace, this unique partnership is replacing walls that divide the developed and developing worlds with bridges that unite us.
Through the creative interplay of audio, video, text panels, bold graphics and interactive components, BRIDGESTHATUNITE challenges visitors to confront typical assumptions about what international development is and what it can achieve — and injects evidence about Canada’s own experience into the public debate.
Accompanying the exhibition is a robust programming component, including:
– Lectures and panel discussions
– School programs and activities for youth
– Cultural events, including musical performances and film screenings
Hours:
Open Tuesday – Sunday: 9:00AM-5:00PM and Monday, February 15th (Family Day)
Closed Mondays (see exception above).
ADMISSION IS FREE
Location: Canada Science and Technology Museum, 1867 St. Laurent Blvd. Ottawa, ON K1G 5A3
Date: January 28th – February 28th, 2010
For more information or to book your group, visit www.bridgesthatunite.ca, contact [email protected] or call 1-800-267-2532 extension 8.
Your Comments:
http://blog.ottawakiosk.com/?p=759
MoneySense ranks Canada's 40 largest charities by what they spend on
administrative expenses.
Ever wonder how much of your donations to charity are gobbled up by
administrative costs? We looked at Canada's 40 largest charities, and
found the ones with the highest and lowest percentages of revenue used
for managerial, administrative and fundraising expenses, according to
Canada Revenue Agency returns.
Charity: Aga Khan Foundation Canada
City: Ottawa
Province: ON
Revenue: $116,087,864.00
% of Revenue: 3
Ranking of Canada's 40 biggest charities by administrative costs can be
found at
http://www.moneysense.ca/2009/12/21/can ... charities/
administrative expenses.
Ever wonder how much of your donations to charity are gobbled up by
administrative costs? We looked at Canada's 40 largest charities, and
found the ones with the highest and lowest percentages of revenue used
for managerial, administrative and fundraising expenses, according to
Canada Revenue Agency returns.
Charity: Aga Khan Foundation Canada
City: Ottawa
Province: ON
Revenue: $116,087,864.00
% of Revenue: 3
Ranking of Canada's 40 biggest charities by administrative costs can be
found at
http://www.moneysense.ca/2009/12/21/can ... charities/
Bridges that Unite Exhibit to be Presented at the Canada Science and Technology Museum
Thought-provoking Exhibition Invites Canadians to Explore Our Nation's Global Leadership Role
OTTAWA, Jan. 21 /CNW/ - Bridges that Unite, an interactive exhibition showcasing Canada's ability to bridge the developed and the developing worlds, is set to open in Ottawa next week as part of a cross-Canada tour.
Presented from January 28th to February 28th at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, the exhibit invites visitors to consider Canada's role in the world through the lens of a remarkable 25-year partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in some of the world's most isolated and impoverished regions. Thought-provoking stories, spanning several continents, are told through powerful images, evocative soundscapes and multimedia components.
Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC), an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network, is presenting the bilingual exhibition, which provides an opportunity to share the experience of the past quarter-century and chart a way forward for Canada and the world, explained Khalil Z. Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of AKFC.
"The exhibition draws on our rich experience in the developing world to spark conversations about what Canada and Canadians can do to ensure a more peaceful, prosperous and pluralist world. We are delighted to continue this important dialogue in Ottawa and we look forward to teaming up with the Canada Science and Technology Museum and other key partners to present Bridges that Unite."
The exhibition provides an ideal platform for in-depth exchanges on some of the most pressing questions of the 21st century and plays host to a range of on-site events including free film screenings, cultural events, and school programs. Guides are on hand to engage with visitors and animate special activities.
"While at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, the Bridges that Unite exhibition will highlight many of Canada's contributions on the world stage. As one of Canada's national cultural institutions, we are also pleased to provide a platform to generate dialogue and engagement for visitors of all ages with this revealing window on the human condition. Both Bridges that Unite and our concurrent exhibition, Hungry Planet will provide a unique opportunity to reflect on some of the great issues that challenge our planet," said Denise Amyot, President and CEO of the Canada Science and Technology Museum Corporation.
Bridges that Unite is presented Tuesday through Sunday, free of charge, at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, located at 1867 St. Laurent Blvd., Ottawa. The Museum will also be open on Monday, February 15, 2010, for Family Day.
For more information including details on the weekly calendar of events, visit www.bridgesthatunite.ca or contact Aga Khan Foundation Canada at [email protected] or 1-800-267-2532 ext. 8.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Dialogue on Enhancing Equality and Human Development
Monday, January 25, 2010, 1.00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.
BRIDGESTHATUNITE and Canada's World will host a dialogue session that will bring together a cross-section of citizens to reflect on the question of Canada's role in enhancing equality and human development. Registration is free, however seating is limited. To register please contact Sarah Van Borek at: [email protected].
Media Preview: Members of the media are invited to attend a preview on Tuesday, January 26th from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, 1867 St Laurent Boulevard. (Free parking available at the museum). Representatives of host organizations will be available for interviews.
Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) is a Canadian international development organization, and an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network, founded in 1980. Working primarily in Asia and Africa, AKFC works to address the root causes of poverty. www.akfc.ca
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is a group of non-denominational development agencies founded by His Highness the Aga Khan, with wide-ranging mandates covering social, economic and cultural development. www.akdn.org
Sharing Canada's rich collections of objects related to transportation, natural resources, communications, space, energy, manufacturing and industry, the Canada Science and Technology Museum helps Canadians explore the rich connections among science, technology, and culture. www.sciencetech.technomuses.ca
Bridges that Unite began its successful cross-country journey in Victoria with tour stops in Calgary, Vancouver, Kitchener-Waterloo and Halifax. The tour continues to Concordia University in Montréal, March 7-26, 2010.
The exhibition is presented with the support of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). www.acdi-cida.gc.ca
For further information: Jennifer Morrow, AKFC Manager, Communications, Telephone: (613) 237-2532 x 107, Email: [email protected]; Kelly Ray, media and public relations, Canada Science and Technology Museum, Telephone: (613) 949-5732, Email: [email protected]
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c2726.html
Thought-provoking Exhibition Invites Canadians to Explore Our Nation's Global Leadership Role
OTTAWA, Jan. 21 /CNW/ - Bridges that Unite, an interactive exhibition showcasing Canada's ability to bridge the developed and the developing worlds, is set to open in Ottawa next week as part of a cross-Canada tour.
Presented from January 28th to February 28th at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, the exhibit invites visitors to consider Canada's role in the world through the lens of a remarkable 25-year partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in some of the world's most isolated and impoverished regions. Thought-provoking stories, spanning several continents, are told through powerful images, evocative soundscapes and multimedia components.
Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC), an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network, is presenting the bilingual exhibition, which provides an opportunity to share the experience of the past quarter-century and chart a way forward for Canada and the world, explained Khalil Z. Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of AKFC.
"The exhibition draws on our rich experience in the developing world to spark conversations about what Canada and Canadians can do to ensure a more peaceful, prosperous and pluralist world. We are delighted to continue this important dialogue in Ottawa and we look forward to teaming up with the Canada Science and Technology Museum and other key partners to present Bridges that Unite."
The exhibition provides an ideal platform for in-depth exchanges on some of the most pressing questions of the 21st century and plays host to a range of on-site events including free film screenings, cultural events, and school programs. Guides are on hand to engage with visitors and animate special activities.
"While at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, the Bridges that Unite exhibition will highlight many of Canada's contributions on the world stage. As one of Canada's national cultural institutions, we are also pleased to provide a platform to generate dialogue and engagement for visitors of all ages with this revealing window on the human condition. Both Bridges that Unite and our concurrent exhibition, Hungry Planet will provide a unique opportunity to reflect on some of the great issues that challenge our planet," said Denise Amyot, President and CEO of the Canada Science and Technology Museum Corporation.
Bridges that Unite is presented Tuesday through Sunday, free of charge, at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, located at 1867 St. Laurent Blvd., Ottawa. The Museum will also be open on Monday, February 15, 2010, for Family Day.
For more information including details on the weekly calendar of events, visit www.bridgesthatunite.ca or contact Aga Khan Foundation Canada at [email protected] or 1-800-267-2532 ext. 8.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Dialogue on Enhancing Equality and Human Development
Monday, January 25, 2010, 1.00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.
BRIDGESTHATUNITE and Canada's World will host a dialogue session that will bring together a cross-section of citizens to reflect on the question of Canada's role in enhancing equality and human development. Registration is free, however seating is limited. To register please contact Sarah Van Borek at: [email protected].
Media Preview: Members of the media are invited to attend a preview on Tuesday, January 26th from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, 1867 St Laurent Boulevard. (Free parking available at the museum). Representatives of host organizations will be available for interviews.
Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) is a Canadian international development organization, and an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network, founded in 1980. Working primarily in Asia and Africa, AKFC works to address the root causes of poverty. www.akfc.ca
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is a group of non-denominational development agencies founded by His Highness the Aga Khan, with wide-ranging mandates covering social, economic and cultural development. www.akdn.org
Sharing Canada's rich collections of objects related to transportation, natural resources, communications, space, energy, manufacturing and industry, the Canada Science and Technology Museum helps Canadians explore the rich connections among science, technology, and culture. www.sciencetech.technomuses.ca
Bridges that Unite began its successful cross-country journey in Victoria with tour stops in Calgary, Vancouver, Kitchener-Waterloo and Halifax. The tour continues to Concordia University in Montréal, March 7-26, 2010.
The exhibition is presented with the support of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). www.acdi-cida.gc.ca
For further information: Jennifer Morrow, AKFC Manager, Communications, Telephone: (613) 237-2532 x 107, Email: [email protected]; Kelly Ray, media and public relations, Canada Science and Technology Museum, Telephone: (613) 949-5732, Email: [email protected]
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c2726.html
Video: Opening of Bridges that Unite in Ottawa January 30, 2010
Posted by ismailimail in Aga Khan Foundation, Bridges that Unite, Canada, North America, Video.
Tags: Khalil Shariff
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Khalil Z. Shariff, CEO of Aga Khan Foundation Canada, speaks to guests at the opening of Bridges that Unite in Ottawa. The exhibition runs until Februay 28 2010 at the Canada Museum of Science and Technology.
http://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2010/0 ... iliMail%29
Posted by ismailimail in Aga Khan Foundation, Bridges that Unite, Canada, North America, Video.
Tags: Khalil Shariff
trackback
Khalil Z. Shariff, CEO of Aga Khan Foundation Canada, speaks to guests at the opening of Bridges that Unite in Ottawa. The exhibition runs until Februay 28 2010 at the Canada Museum of Science and Technology.
http://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2010/0 ... iliMail%29
Bridges that Unite exhibition presents special activities for International Development Week
Afghan musician performs free cultural events this weekend in Canada's Capital Region
OTTAWA, Feb. 4 /CNW Telbec/ - This weekend, in conjunction with the Bridges that Unite exhibition, Aga Khan Foundation Canada kicks off International Development Week with From Kabul to Ottawa, free public performances by renowned Afghan musician, Vaheed Kaacemy.
Residents of the region are invited to discover Afghanistan through the lens of its rich and diverse musical traditions. Mr. Kaacemy's two appearances - in Gatineau at the Canadian Museum of Civilization and in Ottawa at the Canada Science and Technology Museum - take place against the backdrop of International Development Week, an annual event highlighting the work of Canada's development community.
From Kabul to Ottawa is open to all, however seating is limited. For details visit www.bridgesthatunite.ca.
Upcoming Events:
From Kabul to Ottawa featuring Vaheed Kaacemy:
Saturday, February 6, from 2:00-3:00 p.m., in conjunction with the Hidden Treasures exhibition, at the Canadian Museum of Civilization, Northern Salon.
Sunday, February 7, from 2:00-3:00 p.m., at the Canada Science and Technology Museum auditorium.
Bridges that Unite continues: Global citizens of all ages are invited to learn more about Canada's role in the world through film, photography, stories and activities, by visiting the Bridges that Unite exhibition on now at the Canada Science and Technology Museum until February 28. Visit www.bridgesthatunite.ca for more information.
About the Artist:
Vaheed Kaacemy, who now resides in Toronto, is a versatile performer with an extensive repertory of Afghan folk songs, instrumentals and original compositions. He travels regularly to his native Afghanistan to teach music, and interview and record the country's musicians.
Aga Khan Foundation Canada gratefully acknowledges the support of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
For further information: Jennifer Morrow, AKFC Manager, Communications, Telephone: (613) 237-2532 x 107, Email: [email protected]
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c7031.html
Afghan musician performs free cultural events this weekend in Canada's Capital Region
OTTAWA, Feb. 4 /CNW Telbec/ - This weekend, in conjunction with the Bridges that Unite exhibition, Aga Khan Foundation Canada kicks off International Development Week with From Kabul to Ottawa, free public performances by renowned Afghan musician, Vaheed Kaacemy.
Residents of the region are invited to discover Afghanistan through the lens of its rich and diverse musical traditions. Mr. Kaacemy's two appearances - in Gatineau at the Canadian Museum of Civilization and in Ottawa at the Canada Science and Technology Museum - take place against the backdrop of International Development Week, an annual event highlighting the work of Canada's development community.
From Kabul to Ottawa is open to all, however seating is limited. For details visit www.bridgesthatunite.ca.
Upcoming Events:
From Kabul to Ottawa featuring Vaheed Kaacemy:
Saturday, February 6, from 2:00-3:00 p.m., in conjunction with the Hidden Treasures exhibition, at the Canadian Museum of Civilization, Northern Salon.
Sunday, February 7, from 2:00-3:00 p.m., at the Canada Science and Technology Museum auditorium.
Bridges that Unite continues: Global citizens of all ages are invited to learn more about Canada's role in the world through film, photography, stories and activities, by visiting the Bridges that Unite exhibition on now at the Canada Science and Technology Museum until February 28. Visit www.bridgesthatunite.ca for more information.
About the Artist:
Vaheed Kaacemy, who now resides in Toronto, is a versatile performer with an extensive repertory of Afghan folk songs, instrumentals and original compositions. He travels regularly to his native Afghanistan to teach music, and interview and record the country's musicians.
Aga Khan Foundation Canada gratefully acknowledges the support of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
For further information: Jennifer Morrow, AKFC Manager, Communications, Telephone: (613) 237-2532 x 107, Email: [email protected]
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c7031.html
Exhibition Prompts Visitors to Rethink Global Poverty and its Solutions
Written by Jennifer Morrow
What does a ring of chairs around flip chart have to do with social change in Mozambique? Why restore a garden in war-torn Afghanistan? These are some of the provocative questions that confront visitors to Bridges that Unite, a free exhibition on until February 28 at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, 1867 St. Laurent Blvd.
Stunning photography, engaging stories, film, audioscapes and educational activities, challenge conventional notions of poverty in the developing world, and how to address it.
Bridges that Unite, is a unique showcase of what Canada, at its best, has been able to achieve in some of the most remote and impoverished parts of the world, says Khalil Z. Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of Aga Khan Foundation Canada, which is presenting the exhibition.
“The exhibition draws on our rich experience in the developing world to spark conversations about what Canada and Canadians can do to ensure a more peaceful, prosperous and pluralist world,” says Mr. Shariff.
The exhibition began its cross-Canada journey in Victoria, B.C. two years ago. Since then, thousands of visitors have contributed to a conversation about the role of Canada and the world, and built new bridges of understanding with the developing world.
Global citizens of all ages are invited to take a seat the ring of chairs, which represents the place where social change begins, and hear the stories of men and women who have seen this process at work, from Afghanistan to Zanzibar.
Interactive kiosks present the stories of young Canadian "Agents of Change" who are contributing to innovative thinking about sustainable development. Guides are on hand to animate special activities for children and families.
Music provides a fresh perspective places better known for misery and strife. Renowned Afghan musician Vaheed Kaacemy will perform a free matinee in the auditorium of the Museum of Science and Technology on Sunday, February 7. Recent travels around his native country have allowed Mr. Kaacemy to assemble a diverse repertoire of folk songs that are sure to enchant the audience.
For the full schedule of events, visit www.Bridgesthatunite.ca.
Following the Ottawa run Bridges that Unite will be presented at Concordia University, in Montreal, from March 7-26.
Jennifer Morrow
Manager, Communications / Gestionnaire, Communications
AGA KHAN FOUNDATION CANADA | FONDATION AGA KHAN CANADA
http://www.ottawalife.com/index.php?id= ... &Itemid=41
Written by Jennifer Morrow
What does a ring of chairs around flip chart have to do with social change in Mozambique? Why restore a garden in war-torn Afghanistan? These are some of the provocative questions that confront visitors to Bridges that Unite, a free exhibition on until February 28 at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, 1867 St. Laurent Blvd.
Stunning photography, engaging stories, film, audioscapes and educational activities, challenge conventional notions of poverty in the developing world, and how to address it.
Bridges that Unite, is a unique showcase of what Canada, at its best, has been able to achieve in some of the most remote and impoverished parts of the world, says Khalil Z. Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of Aga Khan Foundation Canada, which is presenting the exhibition.
“The exhibition draws on our rich experience in the developing world to spark conversations about what Canada and Canadians can do to ensure a more peaceful, prosperous and pluralist world,” says Mr. Shariff.
The exhibition began its cross-Canada journey in Victoria, B.C. two years ago. Since then, thousands of visitors have contributed to a conversation about the role of Canada and the world, and built new bridges of understanding with the developing world.
Global citizens of all ages are invited to take a seat the ring of chairs, which represents the place where social change begins, and hear the stories of men and women who have seen this process at work, from Afghanistan to Zanzibar.
Interactive kiosks present the stories of young Canadian "Agents of Change" who are contributing to innovative thinking about sustainable development. Guides are on hand to animate special activities for children and families.
Music provides a fresh perspective places better known for misery and strife. Renowned Afghan musician Vaheed Kaacemy will perform a free matinee in the auditorium of the Museum of Science and Technology on Sunday, February 7. Recent travels around his native country have allowed Mr. Kaacemy to assemble a diverse repertoire of folk songs that are sure to enchant the audience.
For the full schedule of events, visit www.Bridgesthatunite.ca.
Following the Ottawa run Bridges that Unite will be presented at Concordia University, in Montreal, from March 7-26.
Jennifer Morrow
Manager, Communications / Gestionnaire, Communications
AGA KHAN FOUNDATION CANADA | FONDATION AGA KHAN CANADA
http://www.ottawalife.com/index.php?id= ... &Itemid=41
Top Canadian charity walks for 2010
Need some inspiration to stick to your walking routine? These walks across Canada - which all support good causes - will provide just the motivation you need.
By Amanda Vogel
1. World Partnership Walk (organised by AKF)
Attracting tens of thousands of walkers, this volunteer-led event raises awareness and money to fight global poverty. Funds help rural communities in Asia and Africa ensure clean water and sanitation, educate girls and women, and more.
Where: Nine Canadian cities, including Victoria, Edmonton and Kitchener, Ont.
When: Three Sundays in May and June.
Walk: Varies; average 4 to 8.5K
2. Share the Power of a Wish Walk/Run
This family-oriented run/walk helps Make-A-Wish Eastern Ontario grant the wishes of kids with life-threatening medical conditions.
Where: Ottawa
When: Saturday, May 8
Walk: 1K, 5K or 10K
3. Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of Canada, Heel ‘n’ Wheel-a-thon
Canada has one of the highest rates of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in the world. Walk to raise money for curing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
Where: About 80 locations, nationwide
When: June 2010
Walk: Varies, average 5K
4. Multiple Sclerosis Walk
A perfect event for all ages and physical abilities. Each location includes routes with varying lengths and at least one that is wheelchair accessible.
Where: 160 sites across Canada
When: Sunday, April 18 for most sites (however a few have different dates, so please check the website)
Walk: 1k, 2.5k, 5k and 10k
5. The Shoppers Drug Mart’s Weekend to End Women’s Cancers
The Weekend to End Breast Cancer was renamed for 2010 to include other women’s cancers, raising funds for ending breast and gynecologic cancers. Walk its 2-day walk or a new 1-day version.
Where: Six cities, from B.C. to Quebec
When: June to September
Walk: 30K or 60K
6. Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life
This walk’s been increasing awareness about HIV/AIDS and raising funds for local services for more than 20 years.
Where: Across Canada
When: September 11 to 19
Walk: Varies; average 2K
7. Terry Fox Run
Since 1981, this family-oriented, non-competitive run - or walk - celebrates a Canadian hero and raises funds toward curing cancer.
Where: Across Canada, locations online
When: Sunday, September 19
Walk: Varies; most offer a 10K route plus shorter distances.
8. Walk to fight Arthritis
Join thousands of walkers in a nearby community or participate in their virtual walk by raising pledges and starting your own walk.
Where: 17 communities across Canada
When: Sunday, May 30 (except for Ottawa)
Walk: 1k and 5k
9. CIBC Run for the Cure
The country’s largest single day, volunteer-led fundraiser focused on collecting funds for breast cancer research, education and awareness.
Where: Across Canada
When: Sunday, October 3
Walk: 1K or 5K.
10. Heart and Stroke Foundation
Multiple fitness events and walks, with a focus on eliminating heart disease and stroke through research, healthy living and advocacy.
Where: Across Canada (check online for local chapters)
When: Ongoing
Walk: Varies
Need some inspiration to stick to your walking routine? These walks across Canada - which all support good causes - will provide just the motivation you need.
By Amanda Vogel
1. World Partnership Walk (organised by AKF)
Attracting tens of thousands of walkers, this volunteer-led event raises awareness and money to fight global poverty. Funds help rural communities in Asia and Africa ensure clean water and sanitation, educate girls and women, and more.
Where: Nine Canadian cities, including Victoria, Edmonton and Kitchener, Ont.
When: Three Sundays in May and June.
Walk: Varies; average 4 to 8.5K
2. Share the Power of a Wish Walk/Run
This family-oriented run/walk helps Make-A-Wish Eastern Ontario grant the wishes of kids with life-threatening medical conditions.
Where: Ottawa
When: Saturday, May 8
Walk: 1K, 5K or 10K
3. Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of Canada, Heel ‘n’ Wheel-a-thon
Canada has one of the highest rates of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in the world. Walk to raise money for curing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
Where: About 80 locations, nationwide
When: June 2010
Walk: Varies, average 5K
4. Multiple Sclerosis Walk
A perfect event for all ages and physical abilities. Each location includes routes with varying lengths and at least one that is wheelchair accessible.
Where: 160 sites across Canada
When: Sunday, April 18 for most sites (however a few have different dates, so please check the website)
Walk: 1k, 2.5k, 5k and 10k
5. The Shoppers Drug Mart’s Weekend to End Women’s Cancers
The Weekend to End Breast Cancer was renamed for 2010 to include other women’s cancers, raising funds for ending breast and gynecologic cancers. Walk its 2-day walk or a new 1-day version.
Where: Six cities, from B.C. to Quebec
When: June to September
Walk: 30K or 60K
6. Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life
This walk’s been increasing awareness about HIV/AIDS and raising funds for local services for more than 20 years.
Where: Across Canada
When: September 11 to 19
Walk: Varies; average 2K
7. Terry Fox Run
Since 1981, this family-oriented, non-competitive run - or walk - celebrates a Canadian hero and raises funds toward curing cancer.
Where: Across Canada, locations online
When: Sunday, September 19
Walk: Varies; most offer a 10K route plus shorter distances.
8. Walk to fight Arthritis
Join thousands of walkers in a nearby community or participate in their virtual walk by raising pledges and starting your own walk.
Where: 17 communities across Canada
When: Sunday, May 30 (except for Ottawa)
Walk: 1k and 5k
9. CIBC Run for the Cure
The country’s largest single day, volunteer-led fundraiser focused on collecting funds for breast cancer research, education and awareness.
Where: Across Canada
When: Sunday, October 3
Walk: 1K or 5K.
10. Heart and Stroke Foundation
Multiple fitness events and walks, with a focus on eliminating heart disease and stroke through research, healthy living and advocacy.
Where: Across Canada (check online for local chapters)
When: Ongoing
Walk: Varies
Media Advisory - World Partnership Walk kicks off this weekend
Canadians Across the Country Set to "Walk the Walk" to End Global Poverty
OTTAWA, May 26 /CNW Telbec/ - Over three Sundays this spring, Canadians will come together to participate in the World Partnership Walk, Canada's largest annual event to raise funds and increase awareness to fight global poverty.
The event, which begins Sunday, May 30, 2010, unites tens of thousands of Canadians from all walks of life in a common effort to bring hope and renewal to impoverished communities in Asia and Africa. Every dollar (100%) goes directly to international development programs. Not a cent is spent on administration.
DATES: Sunday, May 30th, 2010 in Edmonton, Toronto, Vancouver,
Victoria
Sunday, June 6th,in London and Montréal and
Sunday, June 13th in Calgary, Kitchener-Waterloo and Ottawa
TIME: The Walk begins in each city at 11 a.m.
LOCATIONS:
Toronto-Metro Hall
Edmonton-Legislature Grounds
Vancouver-Stanley Park, Lumbermen's Arch
Victoria-Beacon Hill Park, Cameron Bandshell
London-Springbank Gardens (June 6th)
Montréal-Quays of the Old Port, Place des Vestiges (June 6th)
Ottawa-Major's Hill Park (June 13th)
Calgary-Prince's Island Park, Enmax Stage (June 13th)
Kitchener-Waterloo - Waterloo Public Square (June 13th)
PRESS KITS: At 10 a.m., press kits will be available at the media desk at each location and representatives of the Walk will be available to answer questions.
THE EVENT:
Now in its 26th year, the Walk is an initiative of Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) and its national network of volunteers. AKFC is a non-denominational, registered Canadian charity with more than 30 years of experience finding and sharing effective and lasting solutions to the challenges of global poverty.
The 2009 Walk is expected to attract upwards of 40,000 Canadians. Hundreds of volunteers and 900 corporations are also involved. Since its inception, the Walk has raised more than $50 million; last year more than $6.8 million was collected to enhance the quality of education, improve health care, increase rural incomes and build the capacity of community-based organizations.
It is not too late to donate or register. Visit www.worldpartnershipwalk.com.
For further information: Jennifer Morrow, Manager, Communications, Tel: 1-800-267-2532 (ext. 107), (613) 697-9532 (mobile), [email protected]
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c6646.html
******
World Partnership Walk through Stanley Park to take place Sunday
By Yolande Cole, The Province
May 26, 2010 4:02 PM
Thousands of walkers participated in the World Partnership Walk through Stanley Park last year to raise funds to help fighting global poverty. The march is an annual initiative of the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.
Photograph by: Sam Leung, The ProvinceOver 12,000 people are expected to walk through Stanley Park this Sunday to support development programs like education in Afghanistan.
The World Partnership Walk, organized through the Aga Khan Foundation, will take place at 10 a.m. on Sunday at the Lumbermen’s Arch.
Organizer Shellina Lakhdhir said the foundation is hoping to raise over $2 million at the Vancouver walk.
“This event is really catered for the entire family,” she said. “It’s a wonderful Canadian ethic of caring for the less fortunate that can be promoted within a family.”
The walk, now in its 26th year, is designed to raise funds to support development initiatives in Asia and Africa, including primary education in northern Afghanistan and agriculture programs in Kenya.
In addition to the fundraiser in Stanley Park, similar events will take place in nine other cities across the country over the next few weeks, including walks in Edmonton, Toronto and Victoria on Sunday.
Since the first walk took place in Vancouver in 1985, the event has raised more than $50 million across the country. All funds raised go directly towards development initiatives.
“All contributions are going towards long-term sustainable development that is community-led — that empowers people to fish for themselves rather than wait for a fish,” said Lakhdhir.
The 5-km walk will run from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, and food and multicultural entertainment will take place until 3 p.m.
[email protected]
© Copyright (c) The Province
Thousands of walkers participated in the World Partnership Walk through Stanley Park last year to raise funds to help fighting global poverty. The march is an annual initiative of the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.Photograph by: Sam Leung, The Province
http://www.theprovince.com/World+Partne ... story.html
Canadians Across the Country Set to "Walk the Walk" to End Global Poverty
OTTAWA, May 26 /CNW Telbec/ - Over three Sundays this spring, Canadians will come together to participate in the World Partnership Walk, Canada's largest annual event to raise funds and increase awareness to fight global poverty.
The event, which begins Sunday, May 30, 2010, unites tens of thousands of Canadians from all walks of life in a common effort to bring hope and renewal to impoverished communities in Asia and Africa. Every dollar (100%) goes directly to international development programs. Not a cent is spent on administration.
DATES: Sunday, May 30th, 2010 in Edmonton, Toronto, Vancouver,
Victoria
Sunday, June 6th,in London and Montréal and
Sunday, June 13th in Calgary, Kitchener-Waterloo and Ottawa
TIME: The Walk begins in each city at 11 a.m.
LOCATIONS:
Toronto-Metro Hall
Edmonton-Legislature Grounds
Vancouver-Stanley Park, Lumbermen's Arch
Victoria-Beacon Hill Park, Cameron Bandshell
London-Springbank Gardens (June 6th)
Montréal-Quays of the Old Port, Place des Vestiges (June 6th)
Ottawa-Major's Hill Park (June 13th)
Calgary-Prince's Island Park, Enmax Stage (June 13th)
Kitchener-Waterloo - Waterloo Public Square (June 13th)
PRESS KITS: At 10 a.m., press kits will be available at the media desk at each location and representatives of the Walk will be available to answer questions.
THE EVENT:
Now in its 26th year, the Walk is an initiative of Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) and its national network of volunteers. AKFC is a non-denominational, registered Canadian charity with more than 30 years of experience finding and sharing effective and lasting solutions to the challenges of global poverty.
The 2009 Walk is expected to attract upwards of 40,000 Canadians. Hundreds of volunteers and 900 corporations are also involved. Since its inception, the Walk has raised more than $50 million; last year more than $6.8 million was collected to enhance the quality of education, improve health care, increase rural incomes and build the capacity of community-based organizations.
It is not too late to donate or register. Visit www.worldpartnershipwalk.com.
For further information: Jennifer Morrow, Manager, Communications, Tel: 1-800-267-2532 (ext. 107), (613) 697-9532 (mobile), [email protected]
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c6646.html
******
World Partnership Walk through Stanley Park to take place Sunday
By Yolande Cole, The Province
May 26, 2010 4:02 PM
Thousands of walkers participated in the World Partnership Walk through Stanley Park last year to raise funds to help fighting global poverty. The march is an annual initiative of the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.
Photograph by: Sam Leung, The ProvinceOver 12,000 people are expected to walk through Stanley Park this Sunday to support development programs like education in Afghanistan.
The World Partnership Walk, organized through the Aga Khan Foundation, will take place at 10 a.m. on Sunday at the Lumbermen’s Arch.
Organizer Shellina Lakhdhir said the foundation is hoping to raise over $2 million at the Vancouver walk.
“This event is really catered for the entire family,” she said. “It’s a wonderful Canadian ethic of caring for the less fortunate that can be promoted within a family.”
The walk, now in its 26th year, is designed to raise funds to support development initiatives in Asia and Africa, including primary education in northern Afghanistan and agriculture programs in Kenya.
In addition to the fundraiser in Stanley Park, similar events will take place in nine other cities across the country over the next few weeks, including walks in Edmonton, Toronto and Victoria on Sunday.
Since the first walk took place in Vancouver in 1985, the event has raised more than $50 million across the country. All funds raised go directly towards development initiatives.
“All contributions are going towards long-term sustainable development that is community-led — that empowers people to fish for themselves rather than wait for a fish,” said Lakhdhir.
The 5-km walk will run from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, and food and multicultural entertainment will take place until 3 p.m.
[email protected]
© Copyright (c) The Province
Thousands of walkers participated in the World Partnership Walk through Stanley Park last year to raise funds to help fighting global poverty. The march is an annual initiative of the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.Photograph by: Sam Leung, The Province
http://www.theprovince.com/World+Partne ... story.html
Thousands walk for awareness about global poverty
Prime Minister Stephen Harper bestows honourary Canadian citizenship on the Aga Khan on Friday, May, 28, 2010.
Updated: Sun May. 30 2010 1:32:29 PM
ctvtoronto.ca
TORONTO — Thousands of people took part in the 26th annual World Partnership Walk in Toronto today that was organized by the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.
About 70,000 people in 10 Canadian cities are taking part in the walks over three Sundays in May and June to raise awareness and $7 million to fight global poverty in Africa and south and central Asia.
Volunteer Aleem Visram, 30, says he's been taking part in the walk for 22 years, since he was a boy.
He says water stations were set up along the five-kilometre route so the 10,000 people who signed up for the Toronto walk could stay hydrated as the city swelters under another heat alert.
Visram says the Toronto walk alone aimed to raise almost $3 million.
Walks were also scheduled to take place today in Edmonton, Vancouver and Victoria
http://toronto.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/ ... ntoNewHome
Prime Minister Stephen Harper bestows honourary Canadian citizenship on the Aga Khan on Friday, May, 28, 2010.
Updated: Sun May. 30 2010 1:32:29 PM
ctvtoronto.ca
TORONTO — Thousands of people took part in the 26th annual World Partnership Walk in Toronto today that was organized by the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.
About 70,000 people in 10 Canadian cities are taking part in the walks over three Sundays in May and June to raise awareness and $7 million to fight global poverty in Africa and south and central Asia.
Volunteer Aleem Visram, 30, says he's been taking part in the walk for 22 years, since he was a boy.
He says water stations were set up along the five-kilometre route so the 10,000 people who signed up for the Toronto walk could stay hydrated as the city swelters under another heat alert.
Visram says the Toronto walk alone aimed to raise almost $3 million.
Walks were also scheduled to take place today in Edmonton, Vancouver and Victoria
http://toronto.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/ ... ntoNewHome
World Partnership Walk 2010 - Media Advisory
OTTAWA, June 4 /CNW Telbec/ -
DATE: Sunday, June 6, 2010
-----
TIME: 9 a.m. Registration begins
----- Place des Vestiges,
Quays of the Old Port of Montreal
10:30 a.m. Opening Ceremonies
Hosted by Paul Karwatsky of CTV Montreal
11:30 a.m. Start of the Walk
2.5 km or 5 km loop around the Old Port boardwalk
12:30 p.m. Lunch, entertainment and activities
Featuring Jonathan Émile, Montreal Wushu Institute, École de
percussions Samajam, C-301 & the World Partnership Walk dance
troop
PRESS KIT PICK-UP:
------------------
From 10 a.m. onwards, come to the media tent to get a press pass and kit,
as well as critical Walk Day information and assistance.
THE EVENT:
----------
On Sunday, June 6, 2010, Montreal residents will join Canadians in cities across Canada in the World Partnership Walk, Canada's largest annual event to increase awareness and raise funds to help fight global poverty.
The Walk is an initiative of Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) and its national network of volunteers. AKFC is a not-for-profit development agency that supports sustainable and cost-effective development in the poorest countries. The Walk brings together Canadians from every background to support and learn about programs that help individuals and communities in Asia and Africa rise from poverty. All of the funds raised by the Walk (100%) go to international development initiatives. Administrative costs are covered separately.
The Walk is expected to involve more than 40,000 participants in ten cities: Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Kitchener-Waterloo, London, Saskatoon, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and Victoria.
Since its inception, the Walk has raised more than $50 million; last year $6.8 million was collected to enhance the quality of education, improve healthcare, increase rural incomes and build the capacity of community organizations in the developing world, among other projects.
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c2204.html
OTTAWA, June 4 /CNW Telbec/ -
DATE: Sunday, June 6, 2010
-----
TIME: 9 a.m. Registration begins
----- Place des Vestiges,
Quays of the Old Port of Montreal
10:30 a.m. Opening Ceremonies
Hosted by Paul Karwatsky of CTV Montreal
11:30 a.m. Start of the Walk
2.5 km or 5 km loop around the Old Port boardwalk
12:30 p.m. Lunch, entertainment and activities
Featuring Jonathan Émile, Montreal Wushu Institute, École de
percussions Samajam, C-301 & the World Partnership Walk dance
troop
PRESS KIT PICK-UP:
------------------
From 10 a.m. onwards, come to the media tent to get a press pass and kit,
as well as critical Walk Day information and assistance.
THE EVENT:
----------
On Sunday, June 6, 2010, Montreal residents will join Canadians in cities across Canada in the World Partnership Walk, Canada's largest annual event to increase awareness and raise funds to help fight global poverty.
The Walk is an initiative of Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) and its national network of volunteers. AKFC is a not-for-profit development agency that supports sustainable and cost-effective development in the poorest countries. The Walk brings together Canadians from every background to support and learn about programs that help individuals and communities in Asia and Africa rise from poverty. All of the funds raised by the Walk (100%) go to international development initiatives. Administrative costs are covered separately.
The Walk is expected to involve more than 40,000 participants in ten cities: Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Kitchener-Waterloo, London, Saskatoon, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and Victoria.
Since its inception, the Walk has raised more than $50 million; last year $6.8 million was collected to enhance the quality of education, improve healthcare, increase rural incomes and build the capacity of community organizations in the developing world, among other projects.
http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/arch ... c2204.html
From Canada to Kenya; Change that goes the distance
Naila Jinnah {guest speaker}
What do Kenya and Canada have in common? Both countries are filled with vibrant populations who truly care about creating a better future for their children.
There are also many differences between the two countries, including the culture and the weather, and of course, the poverty line. An unskilled worker in Kenya earns from $1 to $5 a day. In Canada, minimum wage goes from $8 per hour to $10.25 per hour. How can we even compare our lives to that of Kenyans?
In the summer of 2009, I had the opportunity to go to Kenya and see for myself how the populations in the capital of Nairobi and the rural coastal town of Mombasa cope with poverty as part of an Awareness Trip with Aga Khan Foundation Canada, a private, non-denominational charitable organisation. My involvement with the Foundation stems from the World Partnership Walk, Canada’s largest annual event dedicated to raising funds and awareness to fight global poverty. The Walk takes place in 9 cities across Canada including my hometown, Montreal. For the past two years, I have been working alongside the hundreds of other volunteers who have come together to make this event happen for over 25 years.
My trip to Kenya reinforced some of the ideas that I had about extreme poverty and shattered countless others. Having paid my own way to Africa, I wanted to get the most out of the trip. After all, when would I have another opportunity to explore a developing country’s progress first-hand? My goal was to learn more about the people I was working for through the World Partnership Walk and to truly understand how AKFC’s long-term sustainable initiatives in areas like health, education, rural development and the environment brought positive change to the region.
My first observation was that the people in the villages that were hosting AKFC projects were happy. Sure, they were in desperate situations and environments, and some still bore the scars of malnutrition and other diseases typically associated with poor sanitation and poverty. But they wore big smiles on their faces and were excited to share how their thoughts, opinions and experiences were taken into account in developing smart solutions.
There was a sense of ownership of the projects - which were implemented with the support of AKFC’s staff and resources - and therefore, a sense of pride in their success. Whether it was at the chicken farm in a small Mombasa village, in the independent Frigoken Ltd. farms just outside Nairobi or at the various schools we visited, whole communities were empowered to help themselves to improve their own quality of life.
Several of the people I spoke to during our visits mentioned how thankful they were that Canadians had contributed time, money and expertise to helping people all the way on the other side of the world get out of the desperate cycle of poverty. All of them underlined the importance of creating a spark of hope of a better future for their communities, their country and especially their children.
This infectious hope was clearly visible in the eyes of the participants in the Kenya School Improvement Programme (KENSIP). These girls, aged approximately 7 to 13 years old, meet every week in a forum format to discuss how their school can encourage their female classmates to stay in school. Sometimes, this means offering spare uniforms or a needle and thread for on-the-spot uniform repairs, or emergency hygienic products so the girls won’t miss half a school day going home to wash the single set of school clothes they can afford. Another important Girls’ Forum initiative is teaching girls how to reject offers from pimps, sugar daddies – or sugar mommies! When asked what they wanted to “be” when they grew up, these girls surprised the crowd with their goals of becoming teachers and doctors.
I’m involved in the World Partnership Walk because of these girls. Because I’ve seen for myself how a strong support system and hard work can turn hopeful dreams into realistic goals. Because I know that 100% of the funds raised through the World Partnership Walk go directly to support programmes and initiatives that encourage people to take charge of their own lives. And because I believe that a few steps here in Canada can make a world of difference in the lives of some of the poorest people in developing countries like Kenya.
Join me on Sunday June 6 2010 at the Quays of the Old Port near Place Jacques-Cartier for the 26th World Partnership Walk and discover for yourself how far your dollar can go.
For more information, please visit www.WorldPartnershipWalk.com.
http://www.stockthewarehouse.org/ergono ... tance.html
Naila Jinnah {guest speaker}
What do Kenya and Canada have in common? Both countries are filled with vibrant populations who truly care about creating a better future for their children.
There are also many differences between the two countries, including the culture and the weather, and of course, the poverty line. An unskilled worker in Kenya earns from $1 to $5 a day. In Canada, minimum wage goes from $8 per hour to $10.25 per hour. How can we even compare our lives to that of Kenyans?
In the summer of 2009, I had the opportunity to go to Kenya and see for myself how the populations in the capital of Nairobi and the rural coastal town of Mombasa cope with poverty as part of an Awareness Trip with Aga Khan Foundation Canada, a private, non-denominational charitable organisation. My involvement with the Foundation stems from the World Partnership Walk, Canada’s largest annual event dedicated to raising funds and awareness to fight global poverty. The Walk takes place in 9 cities across Canada including my hometown, Montreal. For the past two years, I have been working alongside the hundreds of other volunteers who have come together to make this event happen for over 25 years.
My trip to Kenya reinforced some of the ideas that I had about extreme poverty and shattered countless others. Having paid my own way to Africa, I wanted to get the most out of the trip. After all, when would I have another opportunity to explore a developing country’s progress first-hand? My goal was to learn more about the people I was working for through the World Partnership Walk and to truly understand how AKFC’s long-term sustainable initiatives in areas like health, education, rural development and the environment brought positive change to the region.
My first observation was that the people in the villages that were hosting AKFC projects were happy. Sure, they were in desperate situations and environments, and some still bore the scars of malnutrition and other diseases typically associated with poor sanitation and poverty. But they wore big smiles on their faces and were excited to share how their thoughts, opinions and experiences were taken into account in developing smart solutions.
There was a sense of ownership of the projects - which were implemented with the support of AKFC’s staff and resources - and therefore, a sense of pride in their success. Whether it was at the chicken farm in a small Mombasa village, in the independent Frigoken Ltd. farms just outside Nairobi or at the various schools we visited, whole communities were empowered to help themselves to improve their own quality of life.
Several of the people I spoke to during our visits mentioned how thankful they were that Canadians had contributed time, money and expertise to helping people all the way on the other side of the world get out of the desperate cycle of poverty. All of them underlined the importance of creating a spark of hope of a better future for their communities, their country and especially their children.
This infectious hope was clearly visible in the eyes of the participants in the Kenya School Improvement Programme (KENSIP). These girls, aged approximately 7 to 13 years old, meet every week in a forum format to discuss how their school can encourage their female classmates to stay in school. Sometimes, this means offering spare uniforms or a needle and thread for on-the-spot uniform repairs, or emergency hygienic products so the girls won’t miss half a school day going home to wash the single set of school clothes they can afford. Another important Girls’ Forum initiative is teaching girls how to reject offers from pimps, sugar daddies – or sugar mommies! When asked what they wanted to “be” when they grew up, these girls surprised the crowd with their goals of becoming teachers and doctors.
I’m involved in the World Partnership Walk because of these girls. Because I’ve seen for myself how a strong support system and hard work can turn hopeful dreams into realistic goals. Because I know that 100% of the funds raised through the World Partnership Walk go directly to support programmes and initiatives that encourage people to take charge of their own lives. And because I believe that a few steps here in Canada can make a world of difference in the lives of some of the poorest people in developing countries like Kenya.
Join me on Sunday June 6 2010 at the Quays of the Old Port near Place Jacques-Cartier for the 26th World Partnership Walk and discover for yourself how far your dollar can go.
For more information, please visit www.WorldPartnershipWalk.com.
http://www.stockthewarehouse.org/ergono ... tance.html
Canadian Launch of the EFA Global Monitoring Report
http://www.cgce.ca/gmr-launch/
Reaching the Marginalized
On March 25, 2010, the Canadian Global Campaign for Education hosted the Canadian Launch of the 2010 EFA Global Monitoring Report in cooperation with the Canadian Commission for UNESCO, CIDA and Aga Khan Foundation Canada.
The launch was an opportunity for civil society and government to come together to hear and discuss issues explored in the 2010 report Reaching the Marginalized.
Click on the hyperlinks below to view bios, presentations, photos and more!
Agenda
Master of Ceremonies: David A. Walden, Director-General of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO
Host: Khalil Shariff, CEO Aga Khan Foundation Canada
Statement from Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO
Barbara MacDonald Moore, Co-Chair of CGCE and Director of International Programs at the Canadian Teachers’ Federation (Comment.pdf)
Kevin Watkins, Director Global Monitoring Report (Presentation.ppt)
Discussion Panel
Carol Bellamy, Chair, Education for All Fast Track Initiative
Nadine Grant, Director of Programs, Plan Canada
Marie-Josée Fortin, Director of International Programs, Association of Community Colleges of Canada
Andrew Parkin, Director General, Council of Ministers of Education of Canada
Leslie Tettey, Coordinator, Ghana National Education Campaign Coalition
Closing remarks by Lucia Fry, Global Campaign for Education
Kevin Watkins, Director GMR
Audio – coming soon!
Other resources:
CGCE’s Education for All Policy Brief
GMR’s Overview of Canadian Aid to Education 1999-2008
Press release
Also check out the related Opinion Pieces:
■“An issue where Canada needs to lead,” Rania Al Abdullah, Globe and Mail, March 24, 2010
■“Education is G8's chance to leave a lasting legacy”, Stephen Lewis and Kevin Watkins, Toronto Star, March 25, 2009

See more photos of this event on our Flickr page!
http://www.cgce.ca/gmr-launch/
Reaching the Marginalized
On March 25, 2010, the Canadian Global Campaign for Education hosted the Canadian Launch of the 2010 EFA Global Monitoring Report in cooperation with the Canadian Commission for UNESCO, CIDA and Aga Khan Foundation Canada.
The launch was an opportunity for civil society and government to come together to hear and discuss issues explored in the 2010 report Reaching the Marginalized.
Click on the hyperlinks below to view bios, presentations, photos and more!
Agenda
Master of Ceremonies: David A. Walden, Director-General of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO
Host: Khalil Shariff, CEO Aga Khan Foundation Canada
Statement from Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO
Barbara MacDonald Moore, Co-Chair of CGCE and Director of International Programs at the Canadian Teachers’ Federation (Comment.pdf)
Kevin Watkins, Director Global Monitoring Report (Presentation.ppt)
Discussion Panel
Carol Bellamy, Chair, Education for All Fast Track Initiative
Nadine Grant, Director of Programs, Plan Canada
Marie-Josée Fortin, Director of International Programs, Association of Community Colleges of Canada
Andrew Parkin, Director General, Council of Ministers of Education of Canada
Leslie Tettey, Coordinator, Ghana National Education Campaign Coalition
Closing remarks by Lucia Fry, Global Campaign for Education
Kevin Watkins, Director GMR
Audio – coming soon!
Other resources:
CGCE’s Education for All Policy Brief
GMR’s Overview of Canadian Aid to Education 1999-2008
Press release
Also check out the related Opinion Pieces:
■“An issue where Canada needs to lead,” Rania Al Abdullah, Globe and Mail, March 24, 2010
■“Education is G8's chance to leave a lasting legacy”, Stephen Lewis and Kevin Watkins, Toronto Star, March 25, 2009

See more photos of this event on our Flickr page!