A Legacy of Global Citizenship

This year, MCIC celebrates a remarkable milestone—its 50th anniversary. A reception was held at Government House, hosted by Her Honour Anita Neville, Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba.

The guest list featured current and former board members, staff, partners, youth leaders, educators, and government representatives. Among the attendees was Nahanni Fontaine, Minister of Families, with responsibilities for Accessibility, Women, and Gender Equity. This memorable evening was a moment to reflect on our progress and commitment to global citizenship, equity, and social justice.

Her Honour opened the evening by welcoming all those who came to celebrate this 50-year milestone. “Member organizations of MCIC work for global sustainability, for cooperation, and for human rights in countless ways. One of their important tasks is keeping Manitobans informed about international cooperation…and may the MCIC second half-century bring continued progress and understanding.”

Strengthening local partnerships over the decades

Janice Hamilton, executive director, shared that MCIC has built a close relationship with the provincial government since its early days. In its first meeting with then-Premier Ed Schreyer, MCIC presented a brief titled Towards a Provincial Policy for a Global Village, highlighting the importance of community schools and cultural education programs. This vision secured a groundbreaking grant in 1975, which enabled MCIC to make strides toward a more connected world. Today, the Government of Manitoba continues to support our members' international development efforts. Additionally, support from Global Affairs Canada for public engagement and the Fund for Innovation and Transformation enhances our work in gender equality and sustainable development.

During her speech, Minister Nahanni Fontaine highlighted MCIC’s positive impact on Manitoba and its support for building global connections. “MCIC’s efforts have not only brought change globally but have deeply enriched our communities here in Manitoba,” she said. She also shared her personal experiences with MCIC’s programs: “I was very privileged to participate in the Council's public deliberations on a world in common, talking about what matters in a borderless world. In that same year, I was also granted the opportunity to participate in a National Youth Forum in Ottawa." As Minister of Families, as well as the Minister responsible for Accessibility and Women and Gender Equality, Minister Fontaine expressed pride in her ongoing connection with the Council and applauded its dedication to gender equity and inclusion of persons with disabilities in international work.

Empowering youth to lead change

Empowering Manitoba’s youth is central to MCIC’s mission. Aylin Kohan, a participant in the Voices for Change program, shared how MCIC helped her find a sense of belonging as a recent immigrant. “Through the program, I found my place in the world and realized I am part of something bigger,” she reflected. ash alberg, a former youth participant now an artist and educator, credited MCIC’s Generating Momentum youth conferences for giving them the confidence to act on their beliefs, showing how MCIC’s programs nurture future leaders.

Educators like Krista Curry, the superintendent and CEO of Borderland School Division, emphasized MCIC’s positive influence on students through engaging workshops. These programs empower students to discuss important global issues, such as sustainability and social justice. Krista noted that MCIC’s support enriches the curriculum and inspires students to take action, fostering leadership and social responsibility that reach beyond the classroom. “We do this work with MCIC at very little cost, making it sustainable for small rural divisions like mine to participate—so thank you. The work of MCIC impacts our children. Our children are our future, and I believe because of this work, our future is in great hands,” she said, adding, “Our students know that a bunch of small steps can lead to a movement.”

Collaborating globally, acting locally

Our partnerships extend far beyond Manitoba. Dr. Dorothy Nyambi, president and CEO of MEDA shared the impact of three projects that MCIC has supported in Guatemala, Nicaragua, and the Philippines. She emphasized, “Economic development is a precursor for peace. Peace is not just when you go in to address conflict, but about what we can do to build a more peaceful and prosperous society.” She concluded with a teaching from an Indigenous Elder in Ottawa: “Sometimes the sun shines when it ought to rain. It is not always about predicting the weather; it is about preparing the soil.”

We were fortunate to have Prajuna KC, country director of iDE Nepal, as an international partner in attendance. She remarked, “This milestone is a testament to the enduring spirit of generosity and global solidarity embodied by the people of Manitoba. Your commitment to building a just world and promoting global citizenship has made a profound impact, reaching communities like ours in Nepal.” With your support, more than 13,000 people in Nepal have seen their lives transformed. One inspiring outcome has been the establishment of 30 micro-businesses in rural regions, connecting smallholder farmers to markets. These entrepreneurs enhance agricultural yields and ensure food security, empowering communities sustainably. “On behalf of all the individuals and families whose futures have been shaped by your generosity, I want to thank you. Your support helps build resilient, vibrant communities in Nepal—one seed, one farm, and one business at a time.”

Gary Senft, president of the MCIC Board, thanked Her Honour for inviting MCIC to Government House and everyone who shared reflections. He stated, “Giving back as a volunteer, it’s incredible what you receive for the work that you do. Being engaged with this organization has truly been inspiring on a daily basis.”

As MCIC celebrates this milestone of international cooperation, we remain committed to empowering Manitobans to make a positive global impact. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey—here’s to many more years of partnerships, solidarity, and cooperation!