Following my graduation from Carleton University in October 2011, I have had the opportunity to pursue positions in a number of institutions and partake in some great life changing experiences. The IAS Placement Course through the African Studies degree introduced me to a role as a Junior Advisor in the African Bureau at the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (then DFAIT, now DFATD). Following my time at DFAIT, I then pursued opportunities in the South African High Commission to Canada (Ottawa) and the South African Consulate (Toronto), while at the same time conducting research for the North-South Institute (which sadly closed its doors in September 2014 following near 40 years of operation due to lack of funding). I was then accepted into the International Youth Internship Program (IYIP) to work with the Canadian Cooperative Association (CCA) as a Micro-enterprise Development Officer in Rwanda, East Africa.
My involvement in the Institute of African Studies at Carleton University was instrumental in building the connections needed to be introduced to such opportunities, as well as the knowledge and unique value that my academic background brought to these African and International roles. Each of these experiences have helped guide me to the career that I occupy today – working as an Account Manager for Canadian companies doing business abroad at Export Development Canada (EDC). I am forever grateful for the friendships I made at the Institute and the many ways in which my decision to pursue a degree in African Studies at Carleton has helped shape who I am today.