2019 Student Engagement Finalist: Bow Valley College, Canada

Global Citizenship: Fostering inclusion and self-efficacy

The Intercultural Centre, run by the School of Global Access, provides training, workshops, community volunteerism, intercultural competency training, and College-wide events that promote diversity and inclusivity. Since 2017, this Centre has prioritized the cultivation of global citizenship by empowering learners and staff to consider their actions beyond the walls of the College. By hosting events on environmental justice, anti-racism, circular economy, mental health and well-being, food security and conservation, as well as opportunities to practice these skills, the Intercultural Centre gives participants the opportunity to grow as sustainable citizens.

This work is done by showcasing the talents of our learners, who come from all over the world. Our approach focuses on fostering self-confidence in our students by sharing the various ways positive environmental behaviour and ethics exist in practice. Global citizenship is the active role an individual embodies, concerning matters of social justice, advocacy, and advancing one’s knowledge of global issues.

Top 3 learnings:

1. Find language that suits your audience. “Sustainability” did not resonate as much as “global citizenship”
2. Take the time to collaborate with partners on and off campus
3. Invest in sustainable skills not just knowledge. People act when they feel confident

What it means to win

“Bow Valley College provides people with access to high-quality and effective lifelong learning opportunities through the stewardship of resources. We are proud to be an institution that fosters global citizenship to inspire sustainable citizens. Receiving an International Green Gown Award is a testament to the quality of our international learners’ talents!”

Laura Jo Gunter
President and CEO of Bow Valley College