Below are bios of past & present students who have contributed to this project😊!
Isha Brar- Summer 2023 Intern, Niarobi, Kenya. Hello! My name is Isha, and I’m a fourth-year student at UFV pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree with a criminal justice major and a sociology minor. Thanks to the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship program and UFV, I have been granted the incredible opportunity to travel to Nairobi, Kenya to contribute to several projects, including working with Youth Cafe on advocacy strategies and program planning. Additionally, I have been tasked with aiding in community development and environmental sustainability with youth from Mathare Roots and supporting the UN habitat youth advisory council. My goal is to gain a wider perspective on youth, understand social, political, and economic factors in East Africa, appreciate diverse cultures, and improve my cross-cultural communication skills and knowledge. Ultimately, I aspire to be an international human rights lawyer fostering peace and enhancing economic and diplomatic relations among nations. This experience will allow me to gain involvement with different organizations and cultural exposure in a global context, fulfilling my curiosity about working with nations and different international entities. I am incredibly grateful to the QES program, its sponsors, and especially Cherie for facilitating these internships.
Aliya Dragt- Summer 2023 Intern, Nairobi, Kenya. My name is Aliya Dragt and I am a fourth year Global Development studies student at the University of the Fraser Valley. I have a passion for both global and local community development with an interest in working alongside refugees in East Africa. As a QEScholar, I will be involved in several projects that include working with the Pan Aweil Development Agency creating an online training workshop for Urban South Sudanese refugee youth in digital marketing and storytelling. I am fortunate to also be part of the MiFOOD project in partnership with Hungry Cities, continuing the dialogue and research on the impacts of COVID-19 on Urban South Sudanese Refugees and the challenges they face with food insecurity. I am excited to have the opportunity to attend the Global UN Youth Advisory Board event in June with my fellow QES scholars.
I am looking forward to gaining new cultural experiences as I absorb as much as possible during this internship through the opportunity to witness the realities of development work in Nairobi, Kenya while also getting to collaborate with students, scholars and various NGOs on these projects. I am so grateful to have this international internship experience through the QES scholars program as well as to Dr. Cherie Enns for the time and dedication she puts towards making these internships happen.
Kale’a- Summer 2023 Intern- Nairobi, Kenya My name is Kale’a and I am in my final year of my Bachelor of Arts with a major in Geography and a minor in Global Development Studies at the University of the Fraser Valley. With my studies I have found my interest in planning, development, and climate change in urban settings.
The QES program has given me the amazing opportunity to travel and live in Nairobi, Kenya for 3 months and work with organizations here. Over my time in Nairobi I will be working on projects with UN-Habitat and Mathare Roots Youth Initiative. I have the pleasure of collaborating on a community event in Mathare for their Mathare River Park and attending Global UN Youth Advisory Board in June. I am grateful for the opportunity to expand my world view and experience new cultures during my time here. Thank you to Queen Elizabeth Scholars and Dr. Cherie Enns!
Ray Kelly- Summer 2023 Intern- Nairobi, Kenya Hi everyone! My name is Ray Kelly, and I am third year UFV student, pursuing their French major and Global Development Studies extended minor. For my QES Internship, I will be working with the Pan Aweil and the Youth Cafe organizations on curriculum development for South Sudanese Refugees. As a prospective teacher, I am grateful for this experience to work with diverse populations in an educational context. I am looking forward to building meaningful professional relationships in a new context to expand my worldview.
Raymond Schipper- Summer 2023 Intern- Tanzania. Hello! My name is Raymond Schipper and I am thrilled to have the privilege of being involved in the QES program. I am a UFV student completing my undergraduate degree, a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Geography. I have an interest in the sustainable growth of our communities as well as the complexities of global development. My goal with this internship is to enhance my interpersonal skills and cultural knowledge by learning, listening, and observing in one of the world’s fastest growing cities, Dar es Salaam.
I would like to thank Queen Elizabeth Scholars, the University of the Fraser Valley, and Dr. Cherie Enns for this opportunity and I look forward to the experience!
Winny Minayo- Spring 2023 Intern- Canada
I am Winnie from Kenya currently undertaking my masters degree in Environmental Planning and Management at The University of Nairobi. My research project is focusing on food security where the main objective is to assess sustainability of water resources to help in achieving food security through food production. Through this opportunity as a QES intern, I am looking forward to interact with different scholars to explore the possibilities of sustainable food production from both my country and at a global perspective so as to integrate solutions. As a Geographer am excited to explore the Canadian environment (nature), people and their diverse cultures thanks to Dr. Cherie and Prof. Sam.
Alexis Kneale: Fall 2022 Intern- Nairobi, Kenya
Hi! My name is Alexis Kneale and I am a QEScholar coming from the University of the Fraser Valley in Abbotsford, British Columbia. I am in my third year doing a Bachelor of Environmental Studies with a minor in Indigenous Studies. The QES program has allowed passion for sustainability, urban development, and environmental policy to blossom and grow in ways I never could have expected. The program has helped shape me into better global citizen and has changed my perspective of the world. I firmly believe my experience as a QEScholar will shape the rest of my academic career by allowing me to work alongside and learn from innovative change makers within the sector of urban development.
Jacqueline Fanta: Fall 2022 Interns- Nairobi, Kenya
I am a fourth-year international student from South Sudan pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Global Development studies with a minor in Communications from the university of the Fraser Valley.
I am very passionate about global development issues and feel greatly inspired by the ideals of the United Nations through its 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The power these goals bring especially to young people across the globe that development is possible in a sustained and collaborative manner if properly managed, especially in Africa gives me hope that our future may not be bleak.
I have been fortunate to be part of the MiFOOD project through a research opportunity that has allowed me to understand more some of the development challenges facing the world. The project was conducted in partnership with Hungry Cities that gives hope for the security of food systems in urban areas.
On a personal level, understanding the complexity of the food problem has not only allowed me to develop my research skills, but also provided me an opportunity to equip myself with the right skill sets to be able to thrive in this very competitive world, when I eventually enter the job market.
Natasha Knebelow- Fall 2022 Intern- Nairobi, Kenya
Hello Everyone! My name is Natasha, I am in my final year studying a BA of Geography with a concentration in Urban Planning. I have a keen interest in food systems and food security and have had the amazing opportunity to contribute research to the MiFOOD Project in partnership with Hungry Cities. This work looks at the relationships between increasing urbanization, migration, urban food systems, and gender.
During my time in Nairobi, I have been able to gain a new perspective, learn from others, and help provide literature and conduct research that will focus in on gaps in food security; aiming to provide awareness and solutions that promotes policies, and solutions that better serve the needs of migrants in East Africa. Being in Nairobi and collaborating with students, scholars and different NGOs has been an amazing opportunity that I am very thankful to Dr. Cherie Enns for making it all come together.
I believe this experience will open up many opportunities academically and professionally as well as and set me apart for a Master’s program should I choose to pursue one.
Kenzie Ekkebus- Fall 2022 Intern- Nairobi, Kenya
Hi, my name is Kenzie! I’m a 5th-year bachelor of arts student majoring in Political Science and minoring in Anthropology. As a QEScholar, I am working with the UN-Habitat to learn about its role in the informal settlements. My role has been organizing a Christmas recycling event in Mathare, data cataloging covid media, and editing urbanization reports. I applied to the QES program because I wanted to learn about how NGOs interact with communities and what impact they are capable of having. I also wanted to grow myself personally and become more aware of the world outside of my comfort zone, learning about the people and culture of Kenya.
Abbey Lin- Fall 2022 Intern- Nairobi, Kenya
Hi everyone! My name is Abbey and I’m in my final year as a Global Development Studies student. I have been given the wonderful opportunity to travel to Nairobi, Kenya to assist with research in affiliation with the University of Nairobi on the MiFood project “Gender and Urban Food Insecurity: A Case Study Analysis of South Sudanese Refugees in Nairobi, Kenya”. I have also been given the opportunity to assist in the data analysis of youth organizations in Mathare with UN-Habitat. I intend to absorb and learn as much as possible during this internship and reflect on the things I have learned in my studies while experiencing the realities of development in different contexts. I am forever grateful for the QES program, it’s sponsors and especially Cherie with the work she has put in to make these internships happen.
Cole McGee- Fall 2022 Intern- Nairobi, Kenya
Hello, my name is Cole McGee, and I’m currently in my third year in the Bachelor of Arts program at the University of the Fraser Valley. I’m majoring in geography, which has given me the unique opportunity to learn so much about the world that we live in and its people.
Thanks to the Queen Elizabeth Scholars program and UFV, I have had the privilege of spending my Fall 2022 semester in Nairobi, Kenya for a 3-month internship placement with an NGO called The Youth Café, which has led me to meet so many talented and knowledgeable individuals.
I’ve done a variety of work thus far ranging from funding proposals to policy briefs, while acclimating to a work environment related to my field of study for the first time in my life. So far it has been uniquely challenging for me to re-frame many aspects of my knowledge towards a focus on youth and development within Africa. I’ve gotten to expand my network and knowledge in many ways, all while getting to spend my spare time getting to know the city of Nairobi and its culture. One of my personal goals for this placement was to meet some new faces, and the people of Nairobi have by far been the best part of my time here.
Amanjot K. Dhaliwal– Fall 2022 Intern- Nairobi, Kenya
Hi everyone! My name is Amanjot, and I am a fourth-year student at UFV. I am completing my Bachelor of Arts degree with a psychology major and an anthropology minor.
Doing an internship in Kenya through the QES program has been incredible. I have a placement at UN-Habitat and have been working on projects related to data cataloging and event planning. My career goals include working as a mental health specialist with refugees and immigrants. I have always been curious about working internationally, so this experience is a dream come true; thank you so much to QES and Cherie for making it happen!
Name: Emmanuel Christopher Njavike
Education Program: Masters of Science in Real Estate
TITLE: UNDERSTANDING INFORMAL REAL ESTATE AGENCY FROM THE GROUND: PRACTICES IN TANZANIA
The Case of Dar es Salaam
Abstract:
Informal estate agents form an integral part of property transactions in Tanzania. Despite their prominence, researchers such as Keth hart (2006), urge that their contribution to a property transaction is underrated as their practices are scarcely documented. This study intends to document the informal real estate agency practices, in terms of its operation, procedures involved in the transaction of properties, and the agency relationship that exists in the sector.
The study was conducted in five areas namely; Mbagala Mwisho. Sinza Kijiweni, Mji Mwema, Ilala Boma Mitumbani and Namanga Oysterbay. The researcher adopted a mixed approach whereby a case study and survey methods were used. Data was collected from informal real estate agents, buyers, sellers, landlords, tenants, local government officials, and property market stakeholders through interviews with key informants, online surveys, and the user journey maps.
The findings revealed that the informal real estate agents engage in all types of properties, whereas their experience, local knowledge, and trust sustain their practice. Moreover, the informal agents have adaptive procedures and processes that are too flexible depending on the nature of property, client, area, and negotiation arrangements. Furthermore, Informal real estate agents are part of the communities they operate and they engage in community activities other than estate agency practices, which positions them to better access properties and properties related information. The study recommends for all-inclusive intervention that uses a localized and data-driven approach as the informal estate agency sector holds a huge share of the property transaction market in Tanzania.
Keywords:
Practices, Informality, Estate Agent, Agency
Albert Cuthbert Nyiti
Name of Programme: PhD in Urban Governance and Environmental Studies Name of training department :
Institute of Human Settlement s Studies (IHSS) Name o f University : Ardhi University Title: Quest for a Just and Sustainable Social Housing Delivery in Tanzania: Lessons from the Just City Platform in Dar es Salaam By Albert Cuthbert Nyiti Abstract This study looks into exploring, analysing and co – producing viable mechanisms for a just and sustainable social housing delivery to the marginalized groups living in urban areas of Tanzania .
According to the Draft National Housing Policy (2018), Tanzania still faces a backlog of 3,000,000 housing units growing at a rate of 200,0 00 units per annum. This backlog in housing has been attributed by inter alia high resource constraints and unexhausted opportunities to counteract the matter. Publicly – led housing delivery has rapidly been overtaken by private – led housing delivery approaches . Even the National H using Corporation’s (NHC) goal has shifted from delivering affordable housing to becoming a major commercial and residential real estate developer. This is taking place in the context of market – based reform and the state’s increased reliance on private markets to promote urban development . The gap for affordable and adequate housing creates a room for exploring the need of social housing delivery particularly f or the urban – poor, women headed households, the youth and elderly majority of whom can’t afford housing offered at market rates . There is no clear policy and action towards promoting delivery of sustainable social housing by the government. On this account, there is a need to bring the lack of social housing in Tanzania to the centre of the puzzle so as to explore feasible machinery for its sustainable delivery. Background of the research issue: Over 50% of the global population lives in urban areas a proportion that is projected to increase to 66% by 2050 with 90% of the increase to take place in Africa and Asia (UN, 2014). This unprecedented era of increasing global urbanization has brought challenges inter alia meeting accelerated demand for affordable housing and access to basic infrastructure particularly for the estimated 1 billion urban poor (World Bank, 2020). Since Turner’s original notions of self – help and self – building by the poor were established in the 1970s, the discussion on housing the urban poor has gotten increasingly nuanced. (Yeboa , 2005; Turner 1972, 1976). The New Urban Agenda presented a paradigm shift based on this science of cities and has been the most ambitious in achieving goal 11 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that seeks to make cities and human settlements ‘inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable’. Furthermore, target 11.1 of the SDG is anchored towards ensuring access for all to adequate, safe and affordable housing and basic services by 2030. (UN,2017; UN – HABITAT, 2016). This is a clear indication that ens uring the urban poor’s access to affordable and adequate housing is a fundamental global concern that call for collective efforts worldwide. In order to best understand the efforts towards enhancing access to affordable housing in Tanzania, it is important to first familiarize with its historical account. During the independence movement, nationalist leaders kept improving poor Africans’ housing conditions as one of their main agendas (Kironde,1992). Soon after independence in the 1960s to the mid 1970s the government of Tanzania took the role of becoming a provider of housing as it sought to deliver housing to the public. The case was different in the 1980’s where home ownership policy was explicitly and implicitly encouraged from the 1981 Housing Policy (and later emphasized in the Human Settlements Development Policy of 2000). The call to promote access to housing were outcomes of the policies and approaches that were adopted by the government in the 1970s. In the mid – 1970s the National Housing Corporation (NHC) was obliged to become the government’s arm for delivering “low – cost housing” for rental and sale to Tanzanian residents. Declined from an average of 1480 units during the first five – year plan (1968/69), down to an average of 1352 units during the second five – year plan (1969/74), to 296 units in the third five – year plan (1974/79) and finally to only 48 units in the 1980s (Nnkya, 2021). According to the Draft National Housing Policy (2018), Tanzania still faces a backlog of 3,000,000 housing units growing at a rate of 200,000 units per annum. This backlog in housing has been attributed by inter alia high resource constraints and unexhaust ed opportunities to counteract the matter. Tanzania possesses a very vibrant private sector that has potential to fill a proportion of the housing backlog. Publicly – led housing delivery has rapidly been overtaken by private – led housing delivery approaches (URT,2019; CAHF,2020; Izar and Limbumba, 2020). Even NHC’s goal has shifted from delivering affordable housing to becoming a major commercial and residential real estate developer. This is taking place in the context of market – based reform and the state’s increased reliance on private markets to promote urban development (Izar and Limbumba, 2020). Despite the vital role that social housing can play in reducing urban injustice and poverty there is little understanding and acknowledgment of its role and signi ficance for socio – economic development of the nation. On this account, there is a need to bring the lack of social housing in Tanzania to the centre of the puzzle, as well as exploring feasible machinery for its sustainable delivery. Objectives of the study The main objective of this study is to explore, analyse and co – produce viable mechanisms for a just and sustainable social housing delivery in Tanzania .
Specific Objectives include: (i) Analyse the dynamics of urban injustice in housing delivery in Dar es Salaam; (ii) Co – produce proposals and actions for a just, sustainable and people – centred social housing delivery in Dar es Salaam; and (iii) Inform urban policy – ma king for sustainable social housing delivery in Tanzania. This research seeking to answer the following framework of theoretical questions: Is the current mode of housing delivery led by private efforts an unjust approach towards delivering affordable and adequate housing for the urban poor? Should the fate of the urban poor be left to the mercy of the largely profit – oriented private – led housing market? Is housing delivery under social entitlement system a more just approach towards delivering housing for t he urban poor? If it is or if it is not, how can a more viable and context specific urban just system for housing the urban poor be achieved in Dar es Salaam?
Cobby Achieng- Summer 2022 Intern
PROGRAMME: M.A (Environmental Planning and Management)
UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI
PROJECT: Capacity Building for Policy and Planning in Kenya, Tanzania and India: A Focus on Food Systems and Urban growth management.
A research focused on Migration and Food Security (MiFOOD) Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) project with a focus on food security, urban policy and city planning.
The inflow of migrants especially from the rural areas to the cities is a significant phenomenon existing in many of the developing countries. More and more people are migrating to the urban areas for various reasons meaning urban population is growing day by day. Ideally, 68% of the global population is estimated to live in the urban areas by 2050. An increase in population implies that more food needs to be available mainly for the purpose of consumption. This increase in population is naturally expected to increase household food demand of those living in the urban areas. Many developing countries are currently facing the challenge of meeting the needs of their growing urban populations. This then further leads to issues like increase in the number of urban poor, high rates of unemployment and inadequate provision of services amongst those living in the urban areas. As urbanization process continues, food security is proving to be a major challenge in Sub- Saharan African countries as it results to changing food systems including food supply strategies and consumption rates. The migration of people from the rural areas to the urban areas is contributing a lot to the decline in rural agricultural productivity because those who are considered as work force is moving away from the rural areas leaving a few individuals in the rural areas to practice rural agriculture. This then tends to have a huge impact on agricultural supply chains that most urban dwellers heavily depend on. According to ILO (2016), urban dwellers who have migrated to the cities are more likely to be food insecure and depend on the rural agricultural food systems. Management of urban growth is therefore very important to ensure that the needs of the growing urban population are met especially when it comes to food security. Since migrants are proving to be a larger proportion of the urban population, it is important that their food security is examined for the sake of promoting food production, food accessibility as well as food distribution. According to FAO, “food security exists when all people, at all times, have physical, social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food which meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life”. Strategies of achieving and improving food security in the urban areas and cities are therefore being developed by many countries. Government, national and international institutions are now very much interested in the development of sustainable urban food systems. Urban planners are responding to the issue by encouraging the adoption of urban agriculture food system in order to meet the demands of the increasing population in the urban areas. Urban agriculture food systems provide access to not only fresh but also affordable produce to the urban consumers. Urban food policies are also being developed but this is a strategy that still needs to be strengthened by more implementation by the government as well as local institutions.
Ruimin(Eileen)Zhang-Summer 2022 Intern
Hello everyone, I’m Eileen (Ruimin) Zhang and this is my forth year of my Bachelor of Arts in Global Development Studies.
I am looking forward to participating in this internship in this summer, which is a rare opportunity and a good working platform for me in the future. I am looking forward to participating in some internships in large enterprises related to international development. Because of COVID-19, I had to choose distance learning, but I had mastered the skills of distance learning so it was much easier.
In my spare time, I prefer to go out with my friends to climb mountains or do some handcrafts. Reading and writing novels are also one of my interests. Generally speaking, my interests are very broad. As long as I have never been in contact with them, I will have a strong interest in them.
I will continue to use the remaining semester to complete my final courses. In addition, I will continue to complete my Master’s degree in International Development and study new languages，which I look forward to completing at the University of Ottawa.
I’m going to practice in UN Habitat this time. It’s my first time to have a internship. Thank the UN-Habitat and Dr.Cherie for giving me the opportunity. I will have the chance to contribute to data research and reporting on urban planning and design, housing and population growth, and slum upgrading, etc.
Brooke McLaughlin- Winter 2021 Intern
Hi my Name is Brooke and I am a political science student in my last year of school interning for UN Habitat working on ways to put youth at the forefront of leadership and battling COVID-19 as well as creating more safe and sustainable cities. while completing my internship with UN Habitat I have had the opportunity to analyze and use raw data, while also contributing in report writing, concept and policy notes.
Natasha Knebelow- Winter 2021 Intern
Hello! My name is Natasha and I am in my third year of the Bachelor of Arts program majoring in Geography with a concentration in Urban Planning. I have had the privilege of interning with Ardhi University and City Lab virtually in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. My internship has focused specifically on food security and child friendly planning initiatives and how Covid-19 has impacted these. The virtual aspect of the internship has presented its unique challenges where, navigating time zones, technology, and finding creative ways to collaborate are the norm. Although I would have enjoyed to physically be in Tanzania working with our partners, the opportunities presented to grow and learn in spite of distance has proven to be very valuable. I have had the opportunity to work on a pilot project and modules that advocate for the Right to Play and promotes child friendly initiatives and food security. This internship has also challenged me to expand my skills working with new digital platforms, writing concept notes, analyzing data and refining my research skills all while being exposed to other planning projects going on in Dar es Salaam. I am incredibly thankful to our partners at Ardhi University and Dr. Cherie Enns for the opportunity!
The Shastri Internship- Winter 2021
Chandigarh is working towards developing a city that is more livable and inclusive for children and youth. While the city of Chandigarh is considered a green city, the planners and urban developers neglected to address the needs and preferences of the children who play and live within the city. The city of Chandigarh requires more designated outdoor play spaces, including playground structures that promote play that are welcoming to children and safely accessible.
Through the Shastri Grant and a connection to the University of the Fraser Valley, researchers at the Punjab University in India are hoping to learn from Canada’s experience and commitment to developing child-friendly cities. Canadian models and policies for child friendly cities could serve as a useful model for Indian cities who wish to create more child friendly cities and communities. Through connections and the reciprocity of ideas and understandings, India can also provide several cross-cultural insights for strengthening the Canadian initiatives for child friendly cities.
Over the course of our internship and through the connections we have developed during this process, we (Casandra Hincks, Missy Caswell, and Stephanie Larson) have successfully been able to contribute useful literature to the project; assist with the development of research for Chandigarh, and lastly to develop a pilot project in global connections through universal curriculum modules. For more information regarding this pilot project and to learn more about our internship please visit our blog. Youth as Urban Designers – UFV Shastri Internship 2021 (opened.ca)
Stephanie Larson- Winter 2021 Intern
Hi my names Stephanie and I am just one of three interns on this project. I am currently in my forth year of my Bachelor of Arts Degree with a major in Geography and minor in English. The hope is to enter the teaching program at Simon Fraser University or The University of the Fraser Valley for 2022. I plan to teach grade 3 and once I am settled in a position I want to pursue my Masters of Geography or Education. In my spare time (when I actually have some) you can find me playing soccer, reading and getting some fresh air hiking.
It has been quite interesting finishing my degree remotely, as I never expected to or wanted to take an online class. Working remotely on this project has definitely thrown some curve balls in the mix, but if I can adapt to this then hopefully teaching a room full of kids will be easy.
Missy Caswell- Winter 2021 Intern
Hi my name is Missy. I am one of the students who is taking part in this unique internship experience. I am in the third year of my Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in History and a minor in Geography and plan to enroll in the Teacher Education Program in 2023. I am a busy mom of two elementary school boys and when I’m not working remotely on completing my studies, I’m usually out on an adventure exploring trails, reading a book or travelling the world.
This year has been full of changes and has drawn attention to the need to redesign spaces. It has brought up opportunities to dig deeper into the socioeconomics of our communities and find ways to make our cities more inclusive, especially for children. I am excited to be a part of this internship and look forward to collaborating with the Punjab University on this unique project.
Casandra Hincks- Winter 2021 Intern
Hello! My name is Casandra, and I am the third intern participating in this internship. I am currently a fourth year Bachelor of Integrated Studies Student completing a double minor in Sociology and History. I am also a wife and mother to three children. I have always found myself drawn to the profession of teaching. My passion to become an educator stems from my interest in lifelong learning and my personal beliefs about giving back to community.
Teachers, curriculum, and student voices play a key role in helping us educate and empower the future generations of our communities. When we acknowledge children as active citizens and implement their perspectives and views on society and development, we stand a greater chance in challenging issues that facilitate inequality and exclusivity. By ensuring our cities and communities represent all citizens, big and small, we promote equality and inclusivity at both the community level and the global level. This internship will provide us (the three interns) with opportunities to develop curriculum that promotes both child advocacy practices and inclusive urbanization in the cities of Chandigarh and Abbotsford. I am so excited about the opportunities this Internship will offer to me and my fellow intern partners, both on our individual educational journeys and in our future careers as educators.
Ogechi Ukonu- Fall 2020 Intern
Hi everyone, my name is Ogechi Ukonu. I am a Nigerian who is currently in the 4th year of studying Global Development and Communication at the University of the Fraser Valley. For my internship, I’m working with the United Nations under UN habitat. So far we have worked on survey projects as well as some research that revolved around the Covid impacts on youths. While that is on the side, I am an entrepreneur who is very business oriented. I love to source as well as create content relating to clothes and accessories. My long term goal is to work with the UN as a researcher and writer or A Non – Profit Organization that deals with kids. At the end of my Intern experience, I hope to expand my network as well as get proper experience of what working with the UN feels like. Looking forward to working more.
Alicia Dyck – Fall 2020 Intern
Hello everyone! My name is Alicia, and this Fall I will be interning virtually for Advocates Without Borders! I’m grateful to have the opportunity to work from home with this internship, as I will be able to continue pursuing my studies at UFV at the same time. I am a fourth year Bachelor of Arts student in French, and I just got started in the Global Development program. Once I found out how wonderful this program was and how well it fit with my goals, I decided to jump right in with an internship. My career goals include attending law school, and eventually working as a lawyer for a non-profit or NGO, but my dream would be to work for the United Nations. Because of this, I am so excited to get started with AWB! I am very passionate about human rights, and I want to be able to spread awareness about the current situation in South Sudan. I hope to contribute to some real change through AWB this semester.
Hi everyone! My name is Abbey and I’m a fourth year Global Development Studies student. I have a craving for new experiences and I am insanely excited to have this unique opportunity to work virtually with CIFOR this summer. I am so grateful that I have been allowed this opportunity especially during the troubling time of COVID-19 but that makes me even more determined to be applying what I have learned in a time like this. Even though I will be doing my work from home, the internet has allowed us to continue amazing global opportunities like this and I am thrilled to experience something like this and to do it with CIFOR. Big thanks to Cherie for being able to put this all together like a champ!
Taelyr Keeley — Summer 2020 Intern
Hey everyone! My name is Taelyr and I am in my fourth year of the Bachelor of Arts in Global Development Studies. I have a passion for researching and developing ways that we can adapt our landscape to combat climate change throughout the world. I am very excited to have the opportunity to work virtually with CIFOR this summer alongside renowned experts, to gain valuable skills working with an international research organization. I am disappointed that I will not be living in Nairobi due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this internship presents a unique experience as I will be working abroad but from home here in Abbotsford. I would like to thank Cherie and CIFOR for this amazing opportunity!
Manpreet Dhillon — Winter 2020 Intern
Hello! My name is Manpreet and I am in my fourth year of Bachelor of Arts degree, with a major in Psychology. I am really excited to be working with the team at CityLAB in Dar Es Salaam where I will be able to learn more about global development and get valuable hands on experience working alongside knowledgeable experts. I love connecting with new people and immersing myself in different cultures and this internship will allow me to do just that. I am very thankful for QES and everyone else involved for making this happen for me and cannot wait to experience Tanzania!
Tianna Sarra – Winter 2020 Intern
Hello gems, it is your girl T here! As a student in the BA Program at UFV, my love for the world and passion for global development has guided me to pursue such an amazing opportunity with CityLab in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. With an eager spirit for experiencing the beauty of different cultures, I am looking forward to applying my optimistic and creative mindset towards connecting and growing global communities. Immense gratitude for all those involved in the QES Program, along with Cherie, for a once in a lifetime opportunity!
Amanda Ellsworth – Fall 2019 Intern
Hey friends, “Amanda from Canada” is what I’ll likely go by for the duration of my internship in Nairobi, Kenya. From September to December 2019 I will intern at the United Nation’s Office for Project Services at the UN’s East & South Africa HQ as the QES 2000th scholar. This commences my fourth year of a BA in GDS at UFV and I am excited to experience and to learn what cannot be taught in class. Language. Interactions. Culture. People—that’s what intrigues me, so I am very keen to be immersed in all this for the rest of 2019. Many thanks to C. Enns, UFV and QES for the experience that lies ahead.
An Carson – Summer 2019 Intern
Habari! My name is An and I’m a third year Global Development Studies student with a minor in French from the University of the Fraser Valley. I have a passion for international development and look forward to experiencing a new learning experience and immersing myself into a new culture. I would like to thank the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship program for this amazing opportunity and Cherie for all she does to make this possible!
Jake Jude – Summer 2019 Intern
Hello! My name is Jake Jude and I am finishing up my final year of my Bachelor of Arts degree. Global development has always been a massive interest of mine and getting the opportunity to put some of my communications skills to the test while learning more about urban development at the same time seems like a perfect fit! I am so excited to work with a team like CityLAB in Dar es Salaam as their work organizing events and doing research seamlessly connects my field of study with that of development. Thank you so much QES and everyone involved for affording me the opportunity to enjoy this experience in Tanzania!
Lara Hayward – Summer 2019 Intern
Hi! My name is Lara and I am going into my fourth year of my Global Development degree. I will be spending my summer working with UNOPS in Nairobi, Kenya through the QES internship. I am so excited to learn more about development through hands on international experience. I am very excited to experience Kenya’s environment and culture and I am so grateful for this opportunity and hope to make the most of my three months abroad!
Agnes – Summer 2019 Intern
Hola!
I’m Agnes from Kenya. I am trained as an architect and currently undertaking my masters in Environmental planning and management at the University of Nairobi, Kenya. My research Project is On Urban Growth Management where I am focusing on the urban waterfront development. I am passionate about urban environmental conservation and inclusiveness. Being a QES scholar at UFV is a great opportunity to explore and look at the waterfront issues from an extended context other than my country; my uttermost gratitude to QES, Prof. Cherie Enns and Prof. Sam Owuor.
Veronicah Muendi Kisilu – Summer 2019 Intern
My name is Veronicah Muendi Kisilu and I am currently pursuing my M.A in Environmental Planning and Management at the University of Nairobi, Kenya. I am grateful to Cherie Enns for this exciting opportunity of being part of the Queen Elizabeth Scholars at the University of Fraser Valley, Abbotsford, Canada. My project is on the role of Urban Farming in creating sustainable cities and Abbotsford gives me the opportunity to explore urban farming techniques. I look forward to a learning experience through sharing of my experiences and opinions as well as exploring different cultures and practices in the Beautiful British Colombia!
Asante
Lea Jovanovic – Winter 2019 Intern
Hello! My name is Lea and I will be completing the last semester of my Bachelor of Social Work Degree in Nairobi, Kenya as an intern at UN Habitat. I am looking forward to learning about international development and how social work is practiced on a macro scale in Kenya. I am very excited and grateful to be participating in this program, and cannot wait to immerse myself in the culture, environment and landscapes of Kenya. Thank you Cherie, QES and United Nations Habitat for this opportunity.
Christine Bartz-Winter 2019 Intern
Hi! My name is Christine and I am a fourth year Bachelor of Social work student at the University of the Fraser Valley. I am very excited to begin this new journey as an intern at Unops in Nairobi, Kenya. I desire to expand on my social work knowledge with extended research opportunities on international development, while immersing myself in the African culture over the next few months. A huge thank you to QES, and Cherie Enns for making this happen!
Alyvia Pickard – Winter 2019 Intern
Hi all, my name is Alyvia. I’m a fourth year student in the Bachelor of Social Work program at the University of the Fraser Valley. My internship is with Practical Action’s East Africa office in Nairobi, Kenya. The QES Scholarship has provided me with the opportunity to learn from Practical Action how new technology is being innovated and adopted to free individuals and communities from poverty. I am so grateful for this experience to learn about social issues on an international and global level. Thank you to QES, Cherie Enns and Practical Action for all the time and effort they have put in to get me here, across the world!
Renata Garcia-Paulin – Summer 2018 Intern
Hello! My name is Renata and I am a fourth-year Criminology student. I will be working with UNOPS through the QES internship in Nairobi and I am thrilled to have been offered such an amazing opportunity. I am excited to immerse myself in the different ways of lives and cultures in Kenya and learn about global development. Thank you to Cherie and everyone involved for making this happen on such short notice!
Edith Kemunto – Summer 2018 Intern
My name is Edith from Kenya, currently pursuing a Masters in Environmental Planning and Management at the University of Nairobi. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a Queen Elizabeth Scholar at the University of the Fraser Valley. I intend to advance my research on the contribution of women to Kenya’s food production and the supply value chain; and more wholesomely to participate in a global context with a community dedicated to achieving food security.
Phanice Mokeira – Summer 2018 Intern
Hello!
I’m currently an Environmental Planning and Management M.A student at the University of Nairobi, Kenya. This is such a great opportunity and I am super excited to be part of the QES scholars, 2018. My passion in community livelihoods improvement and sustainability has grown over the years and I am certain that this program will highly contribute towards this. I look forward to participating in this program not only to gain and share knowledge but also to share experiences and interact with students from different cultures.
Thanks UFV for making this happen!
Sherlyne Omangi – Summer 2018 Intern
Hey there!
I am Sherlyne Nyaboe Omangi from Kenya, an Urban Planner and a Master’s student in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, University of Nairobi, Kenya. My post graduate research is on Nourishing Green Spaces in the capital city of Nairobi Kenya with a focus to supplement food production in a dense urban environment and make cities self-reliant. I am thrilled and very grateful for this opportunity to be a Queen Elizabeth Scholar at the University of Fraser Valley. Studying at UFV seems like the perfect opportunity to immerse myself in a different culture, learn, work and interact with variety of professionals and senior researchers. Asante sana!
Megan Durno – Winter 2018 Intern
Hello from Nairobi! I am a third-year Geography student from the University of the Fraser Valley. I am thankful and excited for the opportunity to work with QES and UNOPS. I am eager to further my knowledge of community development and sustainable food systems, as these topics are connected to my passion for urban planning!
Sarah Mills – Winter 2018 Intern
I am a 3rd year Global Development Studies student with a certificate in Early Childhood Education from the University of the Fraser Valley. Thank you Cherie and QES for making this internship possible. I am anxious and excited to begin conducting research on sustainable food systems here in Nairobi, Kenya.
Veronica Mwangi – Fall 2017 Intern
I am a PhD student at the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, University of Nairobi, Kenya. My research is on Food systems in Kenya with a focus on the contribution of the wheat, dairy and beef food systems to food security, reduction of poverty and inequality. I am excited and very grateful for the opportunity to be a Queen Elizabeth scholar at University of the Fraser Valley. It’s a golden opportunity to learn, work and interact with professionals, academicians, students and stakeholders on a global level. Asante to the UFV team that has made this possible. I look forward to learning all that UFV and Canada has to offer!
Mariam Genes Shirima – Fall 2017 Intern
Hello!
My name is Mariam and I work as a Research Assistant at Ardhi University, Tanzania. Currently, I am also pursuing Master Degree in Public Policy Analysis and Programme Management at the Institute of Human Settlement Studies, Ardhi University. I would first of all like to thank the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship program for this amazing opportunity which enables students to connect and share knowledge, ideas and experiences about different cultures in different communities. I extend my sincere appreciation to Prof. Kombe and Prof. Cherie for their tireless efforts of making this possible. I feel honored to be one of the Queen Elizabeth Scholars and I look forward to gaining new knowledge and experiences.
Stephen Otieno – Fall 2017 Intern
Jambo!
My name is Stephen from Kenya. I’m a PhD candidate at the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, University of Nairobi. My research is on Environmental performance of coexisting food systems (water, carbon emissions and food waste). This exchange facilitated by the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarship offers a unique platform to engage, learn and deepen my understanding around this topic.
Alissa Cook – Fall 2017 Intern
Mambo! My name is Alissa and I’m a third year Global Development Studies student with a minor in Sociology, as well as an ACSM certified personal trainer and an Organizational Design Student. I’m thankful for the opportunity to be a Queen Elizabeth Scholar recipient, and am looking forward to learning and conducting research in an academic setting internationally. So far the people of Tanzania have been so welcoming and kind, and I’m grateful to be able to learn from each person we encounter. When I’m not studying you can find me working, training, hiking, eating Pho, or travelling!
Gemma Bridgefoot – Fall 2017 Intern
Habari! I have been looking forward to this internship for a long time now, and feel honoured to finally be here. I am eager to learn from this country, my fellow interns, and the connections we make while researching at Ardhi university and exposing ourselves to Tanzanian culture. I am a 3rd year Global Development studies student with a passion for social justice, urban planning, and cultural anthropology. Immense gratitude goes out to the Queen Elizabeth Scholar grant for making this internship possible.
Amy Chiasson – Fall 2017 Intern
I am a third year Bachelor of Arts student majoring in Peace & Conflict Studies and Political Science. This QES internship in partnership with Ardhi University in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania gives me a unique opportunity to conduct research on food systems and engage in a field of study that is different but complimentary to my own. I am excited to explore Tanzania and soak up as much of this culture as someone can in three months!
Vizuri kukutana na wewe!
Josie Dyck – Fall 2017 Intern
I am a fourth year student in the Bachelor of Arts in Global Development Studies program also pursuing a minor in Business Administration, and have completed my intermediate proficiency certificate in Spanish. This internship in East Africa with the Queen Elizabeth Scholars program is an amazing opportunity to gain experience internationally, and to learn about sustainable agriculture and food systems in a development context. I am so grateful to be a part of this community!
Chelsea Krahn – Fall 2017 Intern
I am in my final year of studying for my Bachelor of Arts in Global Development my minor in Geography. I am excited about the opportunity to be a QES recipient so that I can learn, engage and participate in a global context that is focused on food security. I am passionate about sustainable urban planning, food systems and development. I look forward to working with UNOPS and UN Habitat in Nairobi, Kenya.
Karlene Dowhaniuk – Fall 2017 Intern
I am a third year Bachelor of Arts student in the Global Development Studies program at UFV with a minor in Geography. I’m thankful and excited for the opportunity to work with the East African Institute, and to further my studies related to sustainable food systems and community development.
Karl Krahn – Fall 2017 Intern
My name is Karl Krahn and I am a fourth year Bachelor of Science student majoring in Biology. I am excited and thankful for the opportunity to conduct research on food sources for Nairobi, Kenya with the East African Institute at the Aga Khan University. This semester will provide me with a priceless chance to further develop my research skills in an international context in pursuit of future biology graduate studies.
Sonja Klotz-Fall 2017 Intern
Mambo rafiki!! (Hello friend!)
My name is Sonja, and I am in my final semester of my Bachelor of Arts degree. I will be graduating with a Major in Sociology with a Social Research Concentration and am excited to complete my degree while being on a global adventure of a lifetime. I am super stoked to be here in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and am looking forward to putting my 5 years of academic and field research into practice. I am honoured to have been selected for the QES 2017 Internship, and partner with amazing people who work in the Global & National Development sector.
Tutaonana! (See ya!)
Priyanka Kaul – Fall 2017 Intern
Mambo!!! My name is Priyanka and I am currently in my final year of the Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of the Fraser Valley. I am majoring in Geography with areas of concentration in Physical Geography, Environmental Studies, Urban Studies and GIS. I am so excited to be doing my internship here in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; working on Food Security and Food Systems. Thank you QES for giving me the opportunity to come here and conduct research while working with professionals within the International network. I look forward to developing my skills in field research that will assist me in future graduate studies. I also look forward to immersing myself and learning about the vibrant culture that Tanzania has to offer.
Maisha marefu! (Cheers!)
Given Justin Mhina – Fall 2016 Intern
My name is Given Justin. I feel so honored to be a Queen Elizabeth Scholar. I thank the organizers for their tireless efforts to keep this wonderful program going.
Elitruder Makupa – Fall 2016 Intern
Habari! I am Elitruder Makupa an intern from Tanzania. Currently, I am doing my PhD research. I feel blessed to be among the QES beneficiary under Fall 2016. Many thanks to Prof. Cherie and Prof. Kombe for making this possible.
Claurien Zanoria – Fall 2016 Intern
My name is Claurien Zanoria I’m in my final year of my studies at UFV. I will graduate with a major in GDS and a minor in political science. I’m so thankful for this unique opportunity that would not be possible without the hard work of Cherie and Dr. Kombe.
Dallas Peeling – Fall 2016 Intern
My name is Dallas Peeling and I will be graduating in 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Global Development Studies, a Certificate to Teach English as a Second Language, and Intermediate Proficiency Certificates in French and Spanish. Previously I have done an internship in San Francisco working for an NGO doing corporate philanthropy and international grant making. I have also studied abroad in France. I’m excited for the East Africa internship program because it is a terrific opportunity to explore the field of international development and the many avenues that it can lead you.
Gurpreet Jaswal – Fall 2016 Intern
My name is Gurpreet and I am a current student at UFV. I’m in my third year of the Economics program and I am currently undecided of where I want to go with my degree. I thought this was a great opportunity to gain research experience and explore Tanzania! Thanks to Cherie and QES for allowing us all to come on this amazing adventure!
Kristin Swardh – Fall 2016 Intern
Hello! I recently completed my Social Services Diploma and Professional Communication Essentials Certificate through the University of the Fraser Valley and am working towards a Bachelors of Social Work. The goal of my internship is to gain personal and professional experience while exploring this beautiful country. Thank you to everyone involved in allowing us to have this amazing opportunity.
Madison Stewart – Fall 2016 Intern
Mambo! My name is Maddie and I am a fourth year Global Development and International Relations student originally from Vancouver Island, BC. I am also the Vice President of my university’s Global Development Studies Club. In this position I have organized fundraisers, social events and advocacy campaigns on poverty and inequality. During my free time in Canada I enjoy road trips, finding new hikes, making guacamole, surfing, reading, drinking tea-lattes, and visiting my coastal hometown as much as possible.
Liam Halpin – Summer 2016 Intern
I recently graduated from the University of the Fraser Valley with a Bachelors of Arts majoring in geography. This is my second time to East Africa and I am very excited to return to the region. I look forward to being able to work within a interdisciplinary setting on food systems.
Tyler Dove – Summer 2016 Intern
As a Business student at the University of the Fraser Valley I’m pretty much just excited to be invited out to this thing. Thanks Cherie!
Sheena Walper – Summer 2016 Intern
Hi I’m Sheena and I’ve recently graduated from UFV with a Bachelor of Business, specializing in Human Resources. I love travelling so this internship seemed like the perfect opportunity to both travel and gain international research experience. I’m excited to explore Tanzania and immerse myself in the culture. Once I go home I hope to pursue a career in international business, after some more travelling of course!
Heather Sumner – Summer 2016 Intern
Presently, I am a Global Development student at the University of the Fraser Valley. I have a constantly nagging travel bug which has taken me around the world and has given me the opportunity to experience many different lands and cultures first hand. With a great interest in rights-based development, sustainability and conservation, food security is an important issue with which I am excited to be involved. The East Africa Internship Program is allowing me to gain much needed experience in these matters and further my learning with hands-on participation in developing solutions for sustainable, accessible food systems in East Africa.
Amanda Penner – Summer 2016 Intern
Currently, I am an undergraduate student of English and philosophy at the University of the Fraser Valley. I am interested in exploring and better understanding cultures that differ from my own, and I also have an interest in issues of sustainability and in education. The opportunity to intern in Dar es Salaam and in Mwanza really excites me, as it will allow me to develop my knowledge in all of these areas.
Lisa Harrington- Winter 2016 Intern
I have graduated with my Social Services Diploma from The University of the Fraser Valley and I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Social Work. I wanted to participate in the East Africa Internship Program to support my future aspiration of a career working with vulnerable populations internationally. I am passionate about people’s capacity for growth and change. Once my current degree is complete I plan on continuing into a Masters Degree in International Social Work. If I am not in class then I can usually be found wherever live music is present.
Sydney Raison – Winter 2016 Intern
Hi my name is Sydney Raison and I am a 3rd year undergraduate student at the University of the Fraser Valley. I am a Geography major with an Environmental Science concentration. This internship opportunity really intrigued me because I had never been anywhere but the developed world, and have always wanted to learn what life is like in the developing world. Learning hands on is my favourite way to learn, and you can’t be much more hands on then in the country itself! And hey, who doesn’t love an adventure?
Curtis Finlay – Winter 2016 Intern
I am currently in my fourth and final year at the University of the Fraser Valley, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Geography. I have a passion both for social sciences and for travel and have always dreamed of visiting East Africa. As an added bonus the internship also offers me an opportunity to work on a project I find immensely interesting and that will be a valuable assets should I decide to apply for grad school. These factors combined to make the East Africa internship the perfect way for me to finish my final semester of my undergraduate degree at UFV.
Aneesha Dhillon – Winter 2016 Intern
I am currently in my final semester of my Bachelor of Arts Degree at the University of the Fraser Valley, with a focus in English and Geography. The East Africa Internship Program is allowing me to get out in the field and to actually practice everything that I have been taught in the classroom as well as to further improve my skills. I thought that there could be no better way to complete my degree than by seeing a little bit more of the world!
Jeremy Wagner – Summer 2015 and Fall 2015 Intern
I graduated from the University of the Fraser Valley with a Bachelors degree in Political Science in December, 2014. I am interested in pursuing a career public policy/ public administration and the East Africa Internship Program is giving me the opportunity to examine food security and food system sustainability through policy analysis. After gaining more relevant experience in the field, I plan to pursue a Masters degree in Public Administration. In my spare time, you’ll generally find me in the mountains.
Patricia Magala – Fall 2015 Intern
I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Global Development Studies at the University of the Fraser Valley. I took this internship as a completion requirement for my degree and to learn about how food systems affect developing countries and the world at large. I love to laugh, and I love the rush of adrenaline! After finishing my undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue a Master’s degree in Human Development.
Sierra Nickel-Summer 2015 Intern
I am currently a 3rd year undergraduate student at the University of the Fraser Valley, studying Geography in Urban Studies and Planning. I love spending time outdoors, and have a knack for adventures. I am involved in this project to learn more about the functions of cities in developing nations, and the impact they have on the surrounding communities. Once graduated, I plan on completing my Masters in Urban Planning.
Josh Rempel – Summer 2015 Intern
I am currently an undergraduate student at the University of the Fraser Valley, majoring in Geography in Environmental Science.
Marie Verbenkov – Summer 2015 Intern
I recently graduated from the University of the Fraser Valley with a Bachelors of Arts Criminal Justice Degree, a Psychology Extended-Minor, and an Intermediate Certificate in French. With this education, I would like to continue my studies and pursue a career combining my passions of human rights and international relations. Due to my adventurous personality, in my pastime I am inclined to be exploring the outdoors or engaging in some kind of physical activity.
An Experience of a Lifetime 