This project supports 614 volunteer placements and aims to improve the economic and social well-being of the poorest, most marginalized and vulnerable people, especially women and girls, with a view to contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals. In addition to increasing the participation of Canadians in international development and key global issues, this project aims to increase the performance of professional agricultural organizations in implementing more inclusive, innovative and sustainable development initiatives that advance gender equality. The project aims to improve the productivity and profitability of family farms in these countries while strengthening the performance and governance of the organizations that support them. This project also builds the capacity of professional agricultural organizations through Canadian entrepreneurs and agricultural advisors who provide training, advisory support, technical assistance, as well as studies and tools developed in collaboration with professional agricultural organizations to support the actions of these organizations. Project activities include: (1) recruiting, training and equipping Canadian agricultural entrepreneurs and advisors so that their actions promote women's empowerment, intercultural effectiveness and coaching, among other themes; (2) providing training and support to leaders of professional agricultural organizations, trainers and facilitators, and women in the South on topics related to agricultural management, sustainable agriculture, economic equity within families, and women's rights, empowerment, leadership and voice to improve the performance of their production and processing systems; (3) designing communication plans and developing tools to raise awareness among the Canadian public; (4) conducting studies on market opportunities, women's roles in industry and sectoral issues, as well as tools on gender equality and gender issues to support professional agricultural organizations; and (5) establishing thematic funds to support the development of agri-food activities by women and girls, agri-environment, agroforestry, and adaptation to climate change.
