What attracted you to your program of study at the BSIA?
I loved the opportunity to complete both an internship and a Major Research Paper. I knew this would open doors for me both professionally, but also academically if I wanted to pursue further education. And of course, the fellowship was a plus-point.
What exactly do you do in your position?
I currently work as a Senior Policy Analyst in the Human Rights Division at Global Affairs Canada. In this role, I help coordinate Canada’s engagement at the United Nations through our multilateral missions in New York and Geneva, and lead on the development and coordination of human rights policy cross GAC. No two days at work are the same. One morning I might be coordinating input across government departments on a UN resolution about human rights abuses in Russia; that afternoon, I could be meeting with a religious minority group being persecuted in Iran. It’s fast-paced and multidisciplinary – bridging international law, diplomacy, and policy.
Before joining this team, I worked on the Afghanistan and Middle East desks, where I helped advance Canada’s engagement on human rights and women’s empowerment in contexts of crisis. Those experiences allowed me to work on UNGA resolutions, HRC statements, speeches for Ambassadors, statements for Ministers, a UN Special Rapporteur investigation, an International Court of Justice initiative, and so much more. What I love about my work is that it connects the global to the human: behind every line in a policy recommendation or speech are people whose rights and dignity we are advocating to protect.
What was the most impactful experience during your Master’s degree?
I remember when it came time to apply for internships within the MAGG program, I would pop by Andrew Thompson’s office every day. He would review all of my resumes before I applied for positions, and even helped me prepare for interviews. I felt so supported during this time and know that I wouldn’t be where I am today if it had not been for Andrew’s support in helping me land an internship at GAC.
Tell us about your job. How are you making a difference?
During my role as a Policy Advisor on the Afghanistan Desk at Global Affairs Canada, we received a Ministerial directive to initiate an International Court of Justice (ICJ) initiative against Afghanistan alongside Germany, the Netherlands, and Australia, on the grounds of crimes against humanity against women. I provided the government with policy direction and advice, worked closely with our legal team to shape Canada’s position, and participated in consultations with Afghan women and civil society leaders to ensure their perspectives guided our approach. As the point person for stakeholder relations on the team, I met hundreds of Afghans — women activists, human rights defenders, academics, and journalists — who told me how important this initiative was to them and how much it meant that Canada was standing up for justice when hope felt scarce. Hearing that directly from Afghan women (both inside and outside Afghanistan) was profoundly rewarding. In a context where progress often felt distant, this initiative was something tangible; a reminder that our work in foreign policy, at its core, is about people, and about keeping human rights at the centre of what we do.
What are the next steps in your career progression?
I would love to become a diplomat. I feel that my work at Global Affairs Canada has strengthened that goal by giving me firsthand experience in advancing Canada’s priorities and engaging with partners, and the Foreign Service feels like a natural next step. I’m also mindful of the importance of contributing to a diplomatic service that reflects the diversity that Canada stands for, and I hope to approach diplomacy with empathy, curiosity, and thoughtfulness.
What advice would you give to a prospective student considering a Master’s degree at the Balsillie School of International Policy, or a career in Global Governance and International Policy?
Take advantage of the amazing facility, faculty, and opportunities that are available to you! The school is so rich in resources – use them! Receive mentorship from your professors, attend the events and presentations, volunteer at conferences, and apply for everything!