Six environment students reflect on their co-op terms at non-profits
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
In an era where social and environmental challenges are increasingly complex, non-profit organizations play a crucial role in addressing pressing issues like housing instability, climate change, and community well-being. These organizations often operate with limited resources but immense dedication, striving to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Environment's Global Citizen Internships (GCI) program connects students with these vital non-profits, offering them hands-on experience while supporting the non-profits’ missions. With the support of generous donors, the GCI program enables committed, talented, and passionate Environment undergraduate and graduate students to apply their knowledge in work settings at Canadian registered charities and non-profit organizations with local and global reach.
Here, six Environment students share their reflections on their co-op terms, highlighting how their work contributed to the non-profits’ goals and the valuable lessons they learned through these transformative experiences.
Adam Pfeifer (ENBUS, BES’24)
Adam Pfeifer (ENBUS, BES ’24) completed an impactful work term as a Conservation Technician at the Nature Conservancy of Canada, thanks to his Global Citizen Internship (GCI) funded by KEEN. During his time with the organization, Adam focused on advancing Sustainable Development Goals 13 (Climate Action), 14 (Life Below Water), and 15 (Life on Land). His work involved contributing to critical conservation efforts aimed at protecting ecosystems, mitigating climate change, and preserving biodiversity.
Adam Pfeifer, conservation technician at Nature Conservancy of Canada, Spring 2022
The highlight for me would have to be the people. It's my number-one passion to engage with other people who are as into the environment and learning as I am.
Nouran Nour (ERS, BES ’22)
Nouran Nour (ERS, BES ’22) interned with Sustainable Waterloo Region, where she focused on advancing UN Sustainable Development Goals 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and 13 (Climate Action). Her contributions included developing strategies to enhance regional infrastructure, promote equitable green technologies, and reduce carbon emissions, supporting the organization’s mission to address key sustainability challenges.
Nouran Nour, project coordinator for communications and events at Sustainable Waterloo Region, Winter 2021
Throughout my placement, I learned about the amazing efforts of organizations across the region of Waterloo, all aiming to build a more environmentally friendly economy.
David Leoni (ENVE, BASc ’23)
David Leoni (ENVE, BASc ’23) completed his Global Citizen Internship (GCI) with Habitat for Humanity, where he focused on advancing Sustainable Development Goals 1 (No Poverty), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities). During his placement, David contributed to initiatives aimed at improving affordable housing and promoting sustainable infrastructure, while also working to reduce inequalities in access to essential resources and services.
David Leoni, procurement specialist at Habitat for Humanity, Winter 2021
I will forever use a compassionate perspective when designing or constructing urban areas in my future. I had a meaningful experience with and will continue to support organizations like Habitat for Humanity.
Hanna MacDonald (ENBUS, BES ’25)
Hanna MacDonald (ENBUS, BES ’25) completed her Global Citizen Internship (GCI) with House of Friendship, following an award from Libro Credit Union. During her work term as the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Coordinator, Hanna focused on advancing Sustainable Development Goals 1 (No Poverty), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Her efforts were dedicated to promoting social equity, improving community infrastructure, and addressing disparities in access to resources and opportunities.
Hanna MacDonald, justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion coordinator at House of Friendship, Winter 2024
It’s nice to know that if House of Friendship staff want to advocate for equity, diversity and inclusivity I’ve helped create procedures so their voices can be heard.
Natasha Ing (Planning, BES ’22)
Natasha Ing (Planning, BES ’22) completed her placement with Habitat for Humanity following an award supported by Sheryl Kennedy. During her time as a planning student, Natasha focused on advancing Sustainable Development Goals 1 (No Poverty), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Her work involved contributing to affordable housing initiatives, enhancing infrastructure, and addressing social inequalities within the community.
Natasha Ing, planning student at Habitat for Humanity, Spring 2019
Working with Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region through the GCI allowed me to understand the power and value in community support. This position helped to kickstart my career and I'm thankful for all of the opportunities and connections I've made since. I'm excited to be back in the Region leading the work for the High-Performance Development Standards.
Ricardo Dabydeen (Planning, BES ’25)
Ricardo Dabydeen (Planning, BES ’25) completed two work terms as a Partnerships Intern at Indigenous Clean Energy, following his Global Citizen Internship (GCI) award, supported by Caivan. During his time with the organization, Ricardo focused on advancing Sustainable Development Goals 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities). His contributions included fostering partnerships and promoting clean energy initiatives that support both sustainable development and equity within Indigenous communities.
Ricardo Dabydeen, partnerships intern at Indigenous Clean Energy, Winter and Fall 2023
I am honoured that I had the privilege to make a positive impact by acquiring funding through grant proposal writing to help catalyze Indigenous Peoples and youth’s clean energy projects. This was one of my dream goals as I was able to not only recognize Indigenous Peoples who are the owners of our land and their history, but also to give back and show my appreciation for their meaningful work.
The Global Citizen Internship program exemplifies the university's commitment to promoting collaboration as both a mindset and a critical skill. By integrating their energy, knowledge, and skills into real-world projects, student interns have made significant contributions to a variety of initiatives, such as developing business cases, establishing property evaluation and procurement strategies, and planning affordable housing projects.
You can have an impact
You too can get involved. Currents students can find new internship postings on WaterlooWorks and alumni and friends are invited to reach out to envalumni@uwaterloo.ca to start the conversation on supporting this important intiative.
