Etsubdink Addis Kasu is a graduate student in the Master of International Public Policy at the Balsillie School of International Aff airs. She is a 2026 graduate of the University of Waterloo, where she earned a Bachelor of Environmental Studies in International Development with a minor in Urban Studies.

During the final year of her undergraduate degree, Etsub conducted an independent eight-month research project that was a culmination of her interest in security policy design and strategy. The resulting paper examined the signifi cance of Canada’s strategic culture in shaping the development of security and defense practices. As a timely contribution, the paper drew on historical analysis to contextualize Canada’s evolving threat perception and the approaches used to respond to emerging security challenges.

Beyond security studies, her scholarly interests also include climate adaptation and sustainable economic development. She remains engaged in these fi elds, with a particular focus on leveraging policies and institutions to foster inclusive, resilient, and long-term growth in developing nations. At the Balsillie School, Etsub is eager to deepen her expertise in international economic relations, security, and digital governance.