The members of the Canadian delegation were chosen by Young Diplomats of Canada (YDC). YDC received close to 100 applications this year, and three of the six members selected are current or former students of the University of Ottawa: Chief Delegate Elie Kallab is currently pursuing a PhD in political science at the University of Ottawa; Angelica Kalubiaka is a graduate of the biopharmaceutical science program and is currently working towards a master’s degree in public and international affairs; and Sahib Kaur Dhaliwal holds an undergraduate degree in economics and public policy from the University of Ottawa.
Crystal Starr Pesim Lewis (McGill University), Émile Cloutier (Université Laval) and Joshua Finkelstein (University of Reading, UK) are rounding out the delegation.
“On site, we had a chance to meet ambassadors, academics and panelists from the four corners of the globe and talk to them. It was really interesting to learn about the benefits of international trade and the methods used to ensure its continuity despite the rise of protectionism in certain areas of the world. It was an unforgetable experience!” said Angelica Kalubianka on Day 2 of the Forum.
“It was really interesting to learn about the benefits of international trade and the methods used to ensure its continuity despite the rise of protectionism in certain areas of the world.”
Angelica Kalubiaka
— Student of the University of Ottawa
Significant contribution by the Canadian delegation of young diplomats to the Forum
Each member of the Canadian delegation brings a variety of interests and a wealth of professional experience to the table, an advantage that allows the group to offer a nuanced perspective on the issues discussed at the WTO Public Forum.
The Young Diplomats of Canada (YDC) delegation is playing an active role in the WTO Public Forum, participating in debates, interacting with decision makers and contributing to public consultations on international trade. As committed observers, delegation members have the opportunity to bring Canadian perspectives to bear on critical issues, such as sustainable globalization, the service economy and digitization. Their presence aims to promote a more nuanced understanding of global issues and to foster an inclusive dialogue between young people and global decision makers. “My skills will enable me to enrich debates on how to integrate green policies into business strategies, combining scientific objectivity, open-mindedness and tact,” Angelica Kalubiaka said.
The delegation prepared rigorously and intensively over the summer, holding a series of coordination meetings, consulting with specialists and studying the Forum topics in depth. The young diplomats had the chance to meet with Sara Wilshaw, Chief Trade Commissioner, and Marie-Andrée Lévesque, Director of Trade Negotiations, both from Global Affairs Canada.
The delegation also scheduled meetings with several influential figures in the world of trade and diplomacy, including:
- Nadia Théodore, Head of the Permanent Mission of Canada in Geneva, Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the WTO, UNCTAD, ITC and WIPO
- Johanna Hill, WTO Deputy Director General
- Mona Haddad, Global Director for Trade, Investment and Competitiveness at the World Bank
- Global Shapers at the World Economic Forum in Geneva
- Claire Citeau, Executive Director, Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance
- Phoebe Britten, internationally renowned youth advocate
These meetings enable delegates to develop their professional networks and gain valuable insights into global trade issues.
The University of Ottawa: An incubator for diplomatic talent
The delegation’s participation underscores the quality of the education provided by the University of Ottawa in preparing its students for international careers, as well as its strategic location in the heart of the nation’s capital for training the next generation of international relations professionals. Programs in public affairs and political science give students the skills they need to shine on the world stage.
With their innovative perspectives and rigorous preparation, Canada’s young diplomats are a good example of how their university education is equipping them to participate in international events. Their attendance at the WTO Public Forum reflects not only the vibrancy of young talent at the University of Ottawa, but also their ability to influence global discussions on trade and diplomacy.
