As a part of my pre departure training and my last semester of classes, myself along with the rest of my cohort are part of a non-for profit group known as Indevours. Indevours is an organization that is managed by each incoming class in their third year before they leave for their international placements. Our goal is to raise awareness about who we are and the importance of sustainable development along with raising funds to offset the cost of our international unpaid internships.
Indevours define themselves as a group of twenty-seven diverse university students heading to seven different countries around the world in search of ways to make a
positive difference in the realities of international development.
Our vision is to create positive and sustainable development for societies, the environment and the economy. We seek to empower and build capacity in others locally and globally by harnessing diversity, innovation and opportunity.
Our values are:
Optimism – We seek ways to embody a positive sense of determination, and believe that change can happen in a world ridden with adversity and challenge.
Education – We gain theoretical and hands-on knowledge and experience by learning from and with others, to take action in solving real-life problems.
Stewardship – We aim to be accountable to those we collaborate with, and foster sustainability while working in our environment.
In order to raise funds and spread awareness, Indevours have organized a variety of local events around the KW area. Our first event was The Battle of the Bands that took place at Bobby O’Brien’s Pub in Kitchener where we had several local bands perform who competed for an awesome grand prize. Our second event was a Family Fun Festival located at Waterloo Square, which featured local games and crafts from each of the countries we will be working in.
Our next event will we held on July 27th 2013 in Waterloo. The Indevours are organizing a Global Gala, which will feature a keynote speaker, a three-course meal and a silent auction. To find out more about Indevours and the Global Gala check out our website.
