International Advocacy Seminar

Empowering the Diaspora Voices for Effective advocacy

Your voice can travel farther than any border. The question is: how far will you take it?

Around the world, authoritarian regimes invest heavily in censorship, propaganda, and the suppression of dissent. Yet despite these efforts, diaspora communities continue to keep critical conversations alive, raising awareness, mobilizing action, and ensuring that important stories are not forgotten. But meaningful advocacy requires more than passion. It requires strategy, skills, and a network of people committed to making a difference.

That is why we are launching the International Advocacy Seminar on October 4 at the University of Toronto in partnership with the ATLAS Network and the University of Toronto’s Global Girls Movement, bringing together emerging leaders from across Canada for a day of learning, connection, and action.

Drawing participants from diaspora communities connected to Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, China, Ukraine, and beyond, the seminar will focus on strengthening the capacity of emerging human rights and freedom advocates. Through practical, hands-on training, participants will explore effective advocacy strategies and gain tools to advance their initiatives, campaigns, and community engagement efforts both within diaspora communities and in support of causes in their countries of origin.

No matter where you are in your advocacy journey, the seminar offers an opportunity to learn, connect, and explore new approaches to advancing the issues you care about.
The conversations that shape change do not stop at borders. Neither should your advocacy.

Event Details

The International Advocacy Seminar 2026 will take place on October 4 at the University of Toronto, bringing together a group of emerging voices for a full day of learning, exchange, and collaboration.

• Date: October 4, 2026
• Location: University of Toronto
• Duration: Full-day seminar (8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.)
• Deadline: September 15, 2026

This is an intensive, in-person gathering designed to create space for meaningful discussions in the field of advocacy and human rights.

What to Expect

• Discussions on real human rights and freedom issues affecting diaspora communities
• Case-based learning from advocacy and policy examples
• Group activities focused on real community challenges
• Peer exchange sessions with participants from diverse backgrounds
• Networking activities with fellow participants and practitioners
• Hands-on engagement with real-world advocacy scenarios

Who should apply (Eligibility)

Participation in the International Advocacy Seminar 2026 is open to applicants who meet the following requirements:

• Age Requirement: Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old at the time of application.
• Residency: Applicants must be currently based in Canada.
• Diaspora Background: Open to individuals from diaspora communities connected to Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, China, Ukraine, and other countries facing human rights or governance challenges.
• Interest in Advocacy: Demonstrated interest in human rights, freedom, democracy, civic engagement, or public policy.
• Language Skills: As all sessions will be conducted in English, participants should have sufficient proficiency to actively engage throughout the seminar.

Selection Criteria

Participation in the International Advocacy Seminar is limited to outstanding participants. Applications will be reviewed by an expert panel at WAEN and evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Engagement Experience: Prior involvement in student groups, community initiatives, volunteering, awareness campaigns, media, writing, or related activities is considered an asset (but not required).
• Motivation & Commitment: Clear motivation to participate fully in the seminar and actively engage in all sessions (8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.).
• Contribution to Cohort Diversity: Selection will aim to build a balanced group representing different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences across Canada.

Scholarships

A limited number of full participation scholarships will be available for selected participants travelling to Toronto from other parts of Canada.

Scholarships may cover:

• Round-trip travel within Canada
• Accommodation in Toronto (where required)
• Meals and refreshments during the seminar

Please note: Scholarship funding is limited and will be awarded on a competitive basis. Applicants are encouraged to apply early.

Seminar Instructors

Advocacy is more than speaking up, it is about creating impact. Join experienced advocates and policy experts who have spent years advancing human rights and driving change through advocacy. Drawing on their personal experiences, they will share the strategies, lessons, and tools that have helped them mobilize communities, engage stakeholders, and influence public discourse.

What You’ll Gain

• Practical advocacy skills and tools for real-world application
• Deeper understanding of how diaspora advocacy connects to policy and communities
• Exposure to different approaches to human rights and freedom work
• A broader perspective on civic engagement and collective action
• A stronger network for future collaboration and support

Why This Summit Matters

The world does not change because people care. It changes because people act. If you are ready to turn your passion into effective advocacy, this summit offers the space, tools, and connections to help you take that next step.

Join the Summit Now

This is your opportunity to strengthen your advocacy skills, connect with diaspora peers from across Canada, and engage in meaningful conversations on human rights, freedom, and civic action.

Click here to apply